Milia

Milia are very common and appear as white, pin-head sized spots on the face. They commonly appear on the nose and cheeks as white bumps just under the surface of the skin. They contain keratin (skin protein) and are harmless. They are often seen on the face, in particular on the delicate skin around the eyes.

There are many types of milia:

Primary milia in children and adults
This condition is caused by keratin trapped beneath the skin surface. Cysts can be found around the eyelids, forehead and on the genitalia. Primary milia may disappear in a few weeks or last for several months.

Milia en plaque
This condition is commonly associated with genetic or autoimmune skin disorders, such as discoid lupus or lichen planus. Milia en plaque can affect the eyelids, ears, cheeks, or jaw. The cysts can be several centimeters in diameter. This condition is primarily seen in middle-aged women, but it can occur in adults and children of all genders and ages.

Multiple eruptive milia
This type of milia consists of itchy areas that can appear on the face, upper arms, and torso. The cysts often appear over a span of time, ranging from a few weeks to a few months.

Traumatic milia
These cysts occur where injury to the skin has occurred. Examples include severe burns and rashes. The cysts may become irritated, making them red along the edges and white in the centre.

Milia associated with drugs
The use of steroid creams can lead to milia on the skin where the cream is applied. However, such side effects from topical medications are rare.

Treatment for milia removal

Needle extraction

Under aseptic condition a sterile needle is used to create a tiny incision and the contents of the milia are carefully extracted.

Hyfrecator extraction

This method of milia removal involves cauterising the skin covering the milia using tiny electrical pulses, which then allows the contents to be extracted.

Surgical excision

This method of milia removal only for the large milia cyst involves local anaesthetic injection and surgical excision with or without suturing.

At our centre doctor will assess the milia at your consultation and advise you of the best option for your individual case.