What is Milia?
A milium cyst is a small benign plug or cyst, often found in groups. They present as pearly white, rounded, sometimes referred to as hard keratinised lumps.
They occur when keratin becomes trapped beneath the epidermis. Arising from an undeveloped sebaceous gland or sweat gland, they originally form within the dermis then migrate upwards.
Newly formed Milia can be soft to touch, however in general, the longer they have been established the more compressed and larger the keratinised centre becomes giving them their distinct hard white appearance.
Milia are most prevalant on the face and mainly appear around the orbital area and cheekbones.
Why do I get them?
Milia are typically associated with dry skin (although not exclusively) likely due to the dehydrated state, or a build up of excess skin cells which then trap the sebum.
Milia are also linked with product use which may be too rich, strong, abrasive or unsuitable for the skin type.
The potential rate & success of Milia treatment
I always advise my client to have realistic expectations for any treatment. Response time can be affected by the amount, size and texture of the milia.
If there are multiple milia, spaced closely together then treatments are carefully considered so as not to overwork the skin. A gradual thinning out of milia is preferable to aid a good healing process and provide the desired response. Large milia may require more than one treatment and treatments will be spaces 4-6 weeks apart depending on the skin type and healing ability.
My clinics are held weekly at EM Skin Clinic in Colchester, Essex and you can book online for your intial consultation here.