Milia are small, white bumps that form when keratin—a protein found in skin, hair, and nails—gets trapped beneath the surface of the skin.
Instead of shedding dead skin cells naturally, your skin traps them in tiny pockets. Over time, these harden into firm little cysts just beneath the surface.
Common Causes of Milia
Milia can affect people of all ages, but older adults may be more prone to them due to slower cell turnover and long-term skin damage. Here’s what might cause or worsen these tiny cysts:
- Dead skin cells that fail to shed properly
- Sun damage — long-term exposure can thicken the skin and increase buildup
- Skin trauma or injury (e.g., burns, abrasions, or rashes)
- Use of heavy or oil-based creams, especially around the eyes
- Long-term use of steroid creams
- A side effect of certain autoimmune or genetic conditions
It’s also worth noting that milia can appear in adults even without obvious cause. Sometimes, it simply reflects how the skin is aging and regenerating over time.
Where Do Milia Show Up?
Milia can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on:
- Under the eyes
- Upper cheeks
- Forehead and temples
- Nose
- Chin
- Chest or upper torso
- Arms and legs
- Occasionally, in the mouth or on intimate areas
For older adults, milia around the eyes and cheeks are especially common, as the skin in those areas is thinner and more delicate.
Should You Be Concerned?
In most cases, milia are completely harmless. They don’t itch. They don’t hurt. And they’re not contagious.
However, they can be mistaken for other skin issues, so if you’re unsure whether the bumps are milia, have them evaluated by a healthcare provider—especially if they change in size, color, or become inflamed.
What Not to Do: Please Don’t Squeeze!
Milia may look like pimples, but they don’t behave like them—and squeezing them will only harm your skin.
Trying to “pop” or scrape them out yourself can lead to:
- Scarring
- Infection
- Skin discoloration
- Delayed healing
Instead, focus on natural skincare habits that encourage gentle exfoliation and support your skin’s renewal process.
Gentle, Natural Ways to Treat Milia at Home
If your milia aren’t inflamed, painful, or spreading, you may be able to improve them with daily care and a few simple treatments. Here’s how to begin.
1. Cleanse Your Skin Gently, Daily
Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser with warm water to wash your face every morning and evening.
Avoid harsh scrubbing or exfoliating tools. Simply massage the cleanser gently into your skin with your fingertips, then rinse and pat dry with a soft towel.
Tip: For mature skin, avoid foaming cleansers or soaps that strip natural oils. Look for labels that say “gentle,” “hydrating,” or “non-comedogenic.”
