Milia consist of tiny white elevations that emerge on the surface of the skin. Typically, they cluster around the nose, cheeks, and chin, but they can also manifest in other locations.
These bumps form when skin cells become encased beneath the top layer of the skin or when there is an accumulation of keratin that becomes trapped.
Newborns are most susceptible to milia. Approximately 40-50% of healthy newborns show signs of milia on their skin within their first month of life. However, milia can also occur in older children, teenagers, and adults.
In infants, milia usually clear up without needing any intervention. In adults, this is rarely true, and these bumps are often removed by extraction or other methods.
There are several steps you can take to accelerate healing and avoid the formation of new milia. Continue reading below for additional information.
Avoid Picking Or Poking At Them
If the milia on your or your child’s face bothers you, refrain from touching the affected spots. Attempting to extract milia can lead to bleeding, scabbing, and scarring. Scraping the skin may also introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.
For infants under six months, the most advisable action is to leave the bumps undisturbed. If you are worried about them, consult your child’s pediatrician. Also read Milia Removal in Singapore for more detailed information.
Cleanse The Area
Ensure you’re using a gentle, paraben-free cleanser on your face daily.
Harsh soaps can strip your skin of necessary oils, disrupting its natural balance and health.
After washing, gently pat your skin dry instead of air drying, which helps avoid chafing or excessive dryness.
Open Your Pores With Steam
Post-cleansing, steaming your face can help eliminate irritants more effectively.
You can do this by:
Sitting in your bathroom with a hot shower running. The steam will gradually fill the area.
Remain in the steam for about 5-8 minutes. This steam will softly open up your pores, allowing any trapped skin flakes or irritants to be released.
Once you’ve finished steaming, turn off the shower and wait a few minutes. Gently pat your face dry and rinse with lukewarm water to remove any remaining irritants before exiting the steamy environment.