What is Milia?
Milia, commonly known as “milk spots” or “oil seeds,” is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, including infants, children, and adults. Milia presents as tiny, white, dome-shaped cysts that appear on the skin’s surface, often around the eyes, cheeks, nose, and forehead. These cysts form when dead skin cells and trapped keratin become trapped beneath the skin’s surface, leading to the characteristic pearly-white appearance.
What are the Types of Skin Tags?
There are two main types of Milia
- Primary Milia: This type of Milia appears spontaneously on the skin and is usually associated with newborns and infants. Primary Milia typically resolves on its own within a few weeks.
- Secondary Milia: Unlike primary Milia, secondary Milia develops as a result of skin damage or trauma, such as burns, blistering injuries, excessive sun exposure, or the prolonged use of certain topical creams. Secondary Milia requires specialized treatment and tends to persist until addressed.
What are the Causes of Skin Tags?
Understanding the underlying causes of Milia is essential to find an effective solution. The primary factors contributing to the development of Milia include:
- Keratin buildup: When dead skin cells become trapped beneath the skin’s surface, it can lead to the formation of Milia.
- Skin damage: Trauma or injury to the skin, such as burns or blistering, may trigger secondary Milia.
- Sun exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can damage the skin and contribute to the development of Milia.
- Skin care products: Certain heavy or comedogenic skincare products can clog pores and lead to Milia formation.
Signs & Symptoms of Skin Tags
Milia are easily recognizable due to their distinct appearance. The key symptoms include:
- Small, white, or yellowish cysts on the skin’s surface.
- Dome-shaped bumps that feel smooth to the touch.
- Typically clustered around the eyes, cheeks, nose, and forehead.
- Usually painless and not associated with inflammation.
Treatment for Skin Tags
At Urban Skin & Hair Clinic, we offer effective treatments to address Milia and restore your skin’s natural radiance. Depending on the type and severity of Milia, our experienced dermatologists may recommend the following treatments:
For primary Milia in infants, debridement may be sufficient, which involves gently removing the cysts with a sterile needle.
Using electrical currents, the skin tag is burned off, leading to its removal. This method is effective for small to medium-sized skin tags.
Chemical peels can exfoliate the skin and unclog pores, reducing the appearance of Milia and promoting a smoother complexion.
This method involves tying off the base of the skin tag with a sterile thread or suture, cutting off its blood supply, and causing it to eventually drop off.
Remember, Milia may sometimes resolve on its own, but seeking professional advice and treatment can help expedite the process and prevent further complications.
At Urban Skin & Hair Clinic, we understand the distress that skin conditions like Milia can cause. Our team of skilled dermatologists is dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans to help you achieve healthy, clear skin. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation and start your journey towards glowing skin today.
