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Common causes include:
Use of thick creams or oils that block pores
Skin damage from sun exposure, burns, or rashes
Aging — as skin renewal slows, dead skin cells can build up
Genetics — some people are simply more prone to developing milia
Milia vs. Whiteheads: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to confuse milia with whiteheads , but there are key differences:
Feature
Milia
Whiteheads
Appearance
Small, firm, white bumps
Soft, white bumps with visible pore
Cause
Trapped keratin
Clogged pores with oil and bacteria
Painful?
No
Sometimes
Can You Pop It?
No — squeezing can damage skin
Yes — though not always recommended
Treatment Needed?
Often goes away on its own
May require extraction or topical treatment
If you’re unsure whether it’s milia or something else, a gentle touch test can help — milia feel harder and smoother than whiteheads.
Safe & Natural Ways to Treat Milia at Home
While milia are harmless and often disappear on their own, many people want to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Fortunately, there are several gentle, natural methods you can try at home.
1. Exfoliate Gently with a Facial Scrub
Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and may encourage milia to come to the surface.
Use a fine-grain facial scrub containing ingredients like:
Jojoba beads
Rice powder
Lactic acid
Salicylic acid (for mild acne-prone skin)
Avoid coarse scrubs or over-exfoliating, which can irritate the skin.
2. Try a Warm Compress
Applying a warm, damp washcloth to the affected area for 5–10 minutes daily may help open pores and soften the skin, encouraging milia to release naturally.
3. Use Non-Comedogenic Skincare Products
Switch to lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens that won’t clog pores or worsen milia.
Look for labels that say:
Oil-free
Non-comedogenic
Lightweight gel-based formulas
4. Apply Retinoid Creams (Low Strength)
Over-the-counter retinoids like adapalene (Differin) can help increase cell turnover and prevent keratin buildup.
Start with a low concentration and apply every other night to avoid irritation.
5. DIY Honey and Cinnamon Mask
This natural mask gently exfoliates and soothes the skin.
Recipe:
1 tbsp raw honey
½ tsp cinnamon
Mix well and apply to clean skin. Leave on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse.
6. Use Castor Oil (Sparingly)
Castor oil has emollient properties and may help draw out impurities.
Apply a small amount to the affected area using a cotton swab. Rinse after 10 minutes.
⚠️ Note: Castor oil is very thick and can be comedogenic for some skin types — patch test first.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your milia persist for weeks or months despite home care, or if you have large clusters, it may be time to seek professional help.
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