What is Under Eye Milia? Treatment, Prevention, and Causes

Milia are tiny lumps formed by keratin trapped beneath the skin. A milium is a single lesion. They can appear anywhere, however they most commonly appear around or beneath the eyes. Milia are most common in newborn, however, it can also occur in children and adults. It is common to confuse milia with acne or skin tags.

Some people, including babies, may be able to depart on their own, while others may require removal. When milia are close to the eyes, great care must be taken to prevent vision damage.

Learn more about milia under the eyes, including its causes and potential treatments, in this blog.

What is Milia under the eyes?

Milia are skin lumps that are tiny and white in color. They are caused by keratin that has become trapped beneath the skin's surface. Milia, unlike whiteheads, which contain pus, do not indicate clogged pores. Milia is common in newborn newborns. They are also frequent in older children. Adults can get milia, especially on their cheeks or under their eyes.

While milia aren't dangerous, you may want to get rid of them. Continue reading to learn how to treat milia under the eyes.

What are the Causes of Milia Under the Eyes?

Milia may appear because you are not properly washing your skin. It is critical to cleanse the skin twice every day in order to eliminate dead skin cells, excess sebum, and cosmetics. So, before going to bed, make sure you remove all of your makeup and use a light cleanser.

Clogged pores and milia can also be caused by heavy or rich face creams. If you have milia, we recommend using a lightweight water-based moisturizer. If you have dry skin and desire something more, make sure your eye area is covered, as this causes keratinization of the skin.

How do Remove Milia Under the Eyes?

If a person visits their primary care physician, they may be sent to a dermatologist or a skin specialist. A dermatologist can usually diagnose milia based on a visual examination.

A doctor may want to investigate for underlying illnesses that may be causing many milia if a person has a lot of bumps.

How do I Get Rid of Milia Under the Eyes?

1. Exfoliate on the regular basis
   Regular exfoliation with an alpha hydroxy acid (such as glycolic or lactic acids) will aid in the removal of dead skin cells, while salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid) will aid in the reduction of oil production.
   The trick is to begin slowly and gently so as not to irritate your skin. Begin with a low potency product once or twice weekly, then gradually increase to more frequently or a higher potency product as tolerated.

Common active ingredients in chemical peels include:

• lactic acid
• glycolic acid
• salicylic acidTrusted Source
  
  However, the area around the eye is extremely sensitive, thus extreme caution is advised. Before utilizing any chemical exfoliants, consult with a doctor.

2. Start using Retinol
   Retinols are particularly beneficial in preventing and treating milia because they stimulate skin-cell turnover and so assist bring cells to the surface, where they can be removed. However, you should avoid using retinol on your upper eyelids since it might cause discomfort (you should also avoid taking retinol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding).

3. Make an appointment for professional extraction
   You should not try to squeeze them at home. Because there is a thin layer of skin concealing the accumulation, nothing will come out and you will risk scarring. A skincare specialist will need to pierce that top layer with a needle to provide a passage for the tough keratin and sebum to exit.

What are the Preventions of Milia Under the Eyes which we should follow?

Some people are more prone to milia than others, thus not all cases are avoidable. However, general preventative advice includes the following:

• Regularly clean, exfoliate and moisturize your skin
  While excessive exfoliation can irritate your skin, a mild exfoliation around your eyes will promote new skin cells to emerge and free trapped keratin. If you have milia, you should use oil-free soaps and cleansers.
  
  
• Use a serum
  Consider investing in a night serum that contains vitamin E or topical vitamin A (retinal) that is safe to use around the eyes. Your body naturally loses part of its capacity to exfoliate dry skin as you age. While you sleep, serums can seal in moisture and encourage cell growth.
  
  
• Try oral supplements
  Check your vitamin intake to ensure you're getting enough of the nutrients that give your skin a healthy glow. If you're concerned that you're not receiving enough vitamins from your diet, you can take oral supplements:
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin B-3 (niacin)
• B-complex vitamins

Conclusion

Milia are small cysts that form as a result of harmless keratin buildup beneath the skin. It is most common on the face and around the eyes. Milia are not pimples, and popping them can cause more irritation and scarring. For milia to disappear, the pores must clean out the accumulated keratin.

Professional treatments can assist in the removal of deeper milia or milia in sensitive places such as around the eyes. Anyone who has recurring milia in the same place should see their doctor or dermatologist for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions - Under Eye Milia

How do I prevent milia under my eyes?

While excessive exfoliation can irritate your skin, a mild exfoliation around your eyes will promote new skin cells to emerge and free trapped keratin. If you have milia, you should use oil-free soaps and cleansers.

What causes milia spots under the eyes?

Milia form when keratin, a protein found in the upper layer of skin, and other components of dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin's surface. Milia most commonly manifests itself around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. Milia can affect both men and women at any age.

Can I remove milia at home?

Mild cases of milia typically resolve on their own. You can, however, try a few home remedies that will not harm your skin and may speed up their removal. Steaming your face is an effective home treatment. This can be done in the bathroom as part of a hot shower or by purchasing a face steamer.

Is Aloe Vera good for milia?

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory characteristics that can help treat milia while also relaxing and cooling the affected region. You should remove the leafy layer and use the inner gel for this purpose. Aloe vera gels are also widely accessible in stores.