Milia Bumps

What milia are

Milia are small cysts containing keratin, a protein found in skin. They often look like small white bumps, especially on the face. Confirmed milia are benign, but a photograph, colour or location alone cannot establish that a particular bump is milia. Other skin changes can look similar.

Why they may appear

Some milia appear without an obvious trigger. Others can follow injury or changes affecting the skin. A list of possible associations does not identify the cause in one person. Developing milia is not evidence that you failed to cleanse or exfoliate properly.

Review the history, not just the product list

Tell a clinician about new products, skin injuries or procedures and medicines you use. Do not assume every rich moisturiser, oil or ingredient is responsible, and do not stop prescribed treatment on that basis. A simpler, non-irritating routine is different from a guaranteed prevention programme.

Does every milium need removal?

Treatment is not always necessary. Some milia disappear on their own; others persist. There is no fixed date by which every bump should clear, and persistence alone does not mean that it is dangerous or needs a procedure. If appearance bothers you, discuss the options, including leaving confirmed milia alone.

Avoid home extraction

Do not squeeze, pierce or cut a bump, or use a needle, lancet or extraction loop on it. Cleaning a tool does not make self-removal appropriate. Scrubbing, steaming and kitchen remedies are not a reliable way to establish the diagnosis or remove a cyst. Avoid repeatedly irritating the area in an attempt to clear it.

Your specific question

A fixed exfoliation schedule is not necessary to prove that you are looking after your skin. If bumps followed a peel, laser or another procedure, discuss that history before trying further treatment.