How to Get Rid of Milia, Reddit? A Dermatologist’s Deep Dive

So, you’re battling those pesky little white bumps and turning to the collective wisdom of Reddit for answers? You’ve likely typed “How to Get Rid of Milia, Reddit?” into your search bar, hoping for a magical DIY cure. While Reddit can be a treasure trove of shared experiences, navigating skincare advice requires a critical eye. Let’s cut through the noise and get down to what really works, backed by science and years of dermatological practice.

Milia are those small, white or yellowish bumps that appear mostly on the face, particularly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. Unlike acne, milia are not caused by clogged pores or bacteria. They are tiny cysts filled with keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nail cells. Think of them as miniature pearls trapped beneath the skin’s surface. The key to getting rid of them is understanding their nature and choosing the right approach.

Here’s the straight answer: Milia are best removed by a dermatologist or trained aesthetician. They can expertly extract the milia using a sterile needle or lancet, creating a small opening and gently removing the trapped keratin. While tempting to squeeze them (DON’T!), doing so at home can lead to inflammation, scarring, and infection. Trust me, I’ve seen the aftermath.

However, there are things you can do at home to prevent milia from forming or to encourage existing ones to surface naturally.

Home Remedies and Preventative Measures

While professional extraction is the gold standard, a consistent skincare routine focusing on exfoliation and gentle cleansing can help. Think of it as creating a smoother runway for those keratin pearls to take off.

Gentle Exfoliation

• Chemical Exfoliants: These are your best friends! Products containing AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid or lactic acid, and BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) like salicylic acid, help dissolve dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. This can help to bring the milia closer to the surface. Start with a low concentration (5-10% AHA or 1-2% BHA) and use it 1-2 times per week, gradually increasing frequency as tolerated. Look for serums, toners, or even gentle exfoliating cleansers.
• Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives (retinol, retinaldehyde, prescription-strength tretinoin) are powerhouses for skin renewal. They speed up cell turnover, prevent clogged pores, and can help to dislodge milia. Start with a low-strength retinol serum at night and gradually increase frequency as tolerated. Be mindful of potential dryness and irritation, and always use sunscreen during the day.
• Avoid Harsh Scrubs: Physical exfoliants like harsh scrubs can irritate the skin and potentially worsen milia. Focus on gentle chemical exfoliation instead.

Proper Cleansing

• Gentle Cleansers: Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser twice a day to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Avoid harsh soaps or cleansers that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Double Cleansing (Optional): If you wear makeup, consider double cleansing at night. Use an oil-based cleanser first to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser.
• Pat Dry: After cleansing, pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing it.

Hydration

• Lightweight Moisturizers: Even oily skin needs hydration! Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin balanced and prevent dryness.
• Hyaluronic Acid: This humectant attracts and retains moisture in the skin, helping to plump and hydrate the skin.

Sun Protection

• Daily Sunscreen: Sun damage can contribute to milia formation. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your home remedies aren’t working, or if the milia are numerous, persistent, or causing discomfort, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. They can offer various treatment options:

• Extraction: As mentioned before, this is the most effective method for immediate removal.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the milia with liquid nitrogen.
• Electrocautery: Using heat to destroy the milia.
• Laser Ablation: Using a laser to vaporize the milia.

Don’t Believe the Hype: Debunking Milia Myths

Let’s address some common misconceptions I often hear from patients and see floating around online:

• Myth: Milia are caused by poor hygiene. This is false. Milia can occur in anyone, regardless of their hygiene habits.
• Myth: You can squeeze milia like pimples. Absolutely not! Squeezing milia is ineffective and can lead to inflammation, scarring, and infection.
• Myth: Sun exposure will make milia disappear. On the contrary, sun exposure can worsen milia by causing inflammation and thickening of the skin.
• Myth: All white bumps are milia. Not necessarily. Other skin conditions, such as comedones or cysts, can resemble milia. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Milia

Here are 12 of the most common questions I get asked about milia, ensuring you have a complete understanding of these little skin invaders:

1. What causes milia in adults?

In adults, milia can be caused by various factors including sun damage, blistering injuries, certain medications, and the use of heavy or occlusive skincare products. Sometimes, there’s no identifiable cause.

2. Are milia contagious?

No, milia are not contagious. They are not caused by a virus or bacteria, so you cannot spread them to others.

3. Can milia go away on their own?

Yes, milia can sometimes disappear on their own, especially in infants (referred to as “milk spots”). However, in adults, they tend to be more persistent and may require treatment.

4. What is the difference between milia and whiteheads?

Milia are small cysts filled with keratin, while whiteheads are clogged pores filled with sebum (oil) and dead skin cells. Milia are typically firm and do not have a central pore, while whiteheads are softer and have a visible pore.

5. Can I use pore strips to remove milia?

No, pore strips are not effective for removing milia. Milia are trapped beneath the skin’s surface and cannot be pulled out with pore strips. Using pore strips on milia can cause irritation and damage to the surrounding skin.

6. Is it safe to use a needle to remove milia at home?

While it’s tempting to try extracting milia yourself with a needle, it is generally not recommended. It can lead to infection, scarring, and hyperpigmentation. A dermatologist or trained aesthetician can safely and effectively extract milia using sterile instruments.

7. What skincare ingredients should I avoid if I’m prone to milia?

Avoid heavy, occlusive skincare products that can clog pores and prevent the natural shedding of skin cells. Look for non-comedogenic products that are specifically formulated not to clog pores. Also, avoid over-exfoliating, which can irritate the skin and potentially worsen milia.

8. Can makeup cause milia?

Yes, certain types of makeup, especially heavy or oil-based formulations, can contribute to milia formation. Always remove your makeup thoroughly before bed and choose non-comedogenic makeup products.

9. Are there any dietary changes that can help prevent milia?

While there is no direct link between diet and milia, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids can promote overall skin health. Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar, which can contribute to inflammation.

10. How long does it take to get rid of milia?

The time it takes to get rid of milia varies depending on the treatment method and the severity of the condition. Professional extraction provides immediate results, while topical treatments may take several weeks or months to show improvement.

11. Can milia reappear after treatment?

Yes, milia can reappear after treatment, especially if the underlying causes are not addressed. Maintaining a consistent skincare routine with gentle exfoliation and proper cleansing can help to prevent recurrence.

12. Are there any home remedies that actually work for milia?

While home remedies may not completely eliminate milia, gentle exfoliation with AHAs or BHAs can help to loosen the keratin and encourage them to surface naturally. Steam facials can also help to soften the skin and make it easier for the milia to be extracted. However, professional extraction is still the most effective method.

In conclusion, while Reddit can offer helpful anecdotal advice, remember that everyone’s skin is different. Treat it with respect and consult a professional for personalized advice and safe, effective treatment options. With the right approach, you can banish those milia and achieve a smoother, clearer complexion.