Milia

WHAT IS MILIA? 

The face is the most likely place  you’ll see milia, which is made up of a collection of milium cysts.  

Milium cysts are very small cysts that form beneath the surface of the skin, often referred to  as ‘milk spots’. They’re usually white or yellow in colour and typically develop on the cheeks  and around the eyes in groups – milia.  

WHAT CAUSES MILIA? 

Milium cysts develop as a result of keratin (a natural protein found in the skin, hair and nails)  becoming trapped under the skin. When milia affects older children and adults it is linked to  having some kind of skin trauma, such as: blistering injuries, sun damage, burns, regular  use of topical steroids or from having undergone a resurfacing or dermabrasion treatment.  Ageing is another factor to consider in the development of milia as the skin becomes less  effective with natural exfoliation. 

Although it often causes no discomfort on its own, it can become irritated and inflamed  when clothing rubs against it.  

HOW IS THIS TREATED? 

Infant milia (affecting babies) often requires no treatment as it will disappear on its own. This  is often the case with older children and adults, however, Dr Grace Kelly can offer some assistance when milium cysts have become red and sore.  

Cryotherapy is a safe and effective method for treating milia and our clinic prefers to use the  Cryopen for this treatment. Delivering ultra-low temperatures to the tissues of the milium cyst  will freeze the intracellular fluid which ultimately turns to shards and breaks through the outer membrane, and destroys the cell. A smooth skin surface will be restored once any side  effects have cleared, which may involve the healing of a post-treatment blister.