Your healthcare professional is able to identify milia following a physical examination to gather details regarding your symptoms. An inspection of the cysts present on your skin will lead to a precise diagnosis, with additional testing typically unnecessary, particularly in infants. Should further investigation of your skin be necessary, your healthcare provider might request a skin biopsy. This procedure involves extracting a tiny sample of your skin to analyze it under a microscope.
Management And Treatment
What Approaches Are Taken For Milia?
Milia generally do not require treatment due to their non-harmful nature. If you are unhappy with the appearance of milia on your skin, discuss removal options with your healthcare provider. Possible treatments for milia may involve:
Applying either over-the-counter adapalene gel or a prescription of tretinoin cream.
Surgical extraction of the milia at your healthcare provider’s office, where a needle is used to pierce the milia for removal of its contents.
Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the milia to eliminate them from your skin. Also read Milia Removal in Singapore for more detailed information.
Employing medicated creams or the antibiotic minocycline for treating milia en plaque.
Is It Safe To Remove Milia At Home?
Avoid attempting to squeeze or scrape off milia by yourself, similar to how you might with a pimple, as this can lead to scarring or infection. However, there are a few home care tips that may be beneficial:
Cleanse your face daily with warm water and a mild soap, and then ensure your skin is dried gently by patting it.
Refrain from applying lotions or oils designed for adults on infants, as their skin is extremely sensitive.
Adults might consider using over-the-counter products that promote skin exfoliation.
Always apply sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
How Long Do Milia Persist?
In infants, milia typically resolve within a few weeks after birth. Adults may experience milia for a duration ranging from a few weeks to several months, but they often disappear without intervention. If you wish to eliminate milia more quickly, consult your healthcare provider.
Outlook / Prognosis
What Should I Know If I Have Milia?
Milia are quite prevalent among newborns, affecting around half of all babies. The small bumps on your baby’s skin pose no risk and will naturally diminish within a few weeks.
If you have milia that are not resolving on their own, it is advisable to speak with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a consultation with a dermatologist or suggest new exfoliation methods to expedite the resolution of milia.
Certain variants of milia may last beyond the typical few weeks to months. Avoid attempting to pick at or squeeze the bumps on your skin, as this could result in lasting scars or an infection.