How To Treat Milk Spots (Milia) With Natural Remedies

 Milia are small, bump-like cysts found under the skin. They are usually 1 to 2 millimeters in size.
They form when skin flakes or keratin, a protein, become trapped under the skin.
Milia most often appear on the face, commonly around the eyelids and cheeks, though they can occur anywhere.

What are the different types of milia?

There are different types of milia including:

      Milia of the newborn: Milia of the newborn affects infants and causes white cysts to form on the baby's skin, often on or around their nose. This type of milia is present at birth.
      Primary milia: Primary milia are small cysts common on the eyelids, forehead, cheeks, or genitals. It affects both children and adults.
      Secondary milia (traumatic milia): Secondary milia are small cysts that occur after skin damage, either from burns, rashes, blisters, or sun exposure. They can also form as a reaction to a heavy skin cream or ointment.
      Juvenile milia: Juvenile milia are cysts that are a symptom of a genetic condition. These can be present at birth or appear later in life.
      Accumulated milia: This rare type of milia most often affects women or people between the ages of 40 and 60. Milia cluster together on a raised patch of skin, usually behind your ears, on your eyelid, or on your cheek or jaw.
      Multiple eruptive milia: This rare condition causes clusters of cysts to form over weeks to months on the face, upper arms, and upper abdomen. These cysts can be itchy.

What’s the difference between milia and milium?

“Milia” is the plural word for the small cysts called milk spots. One cyst is called a “milium.” A milium is also known as a single milk spot or an oil seed.

A number of home remedies may help get rid of milia. While no specific remedy has been proven to remove milia quickly, these treatments are mostly low-risk.

For example:

• Clean the affected area daily. Use a mild soap to prevent skin irritation. Soaps for sensitive skin are available for purchase online.
• Steam open the pores. This can be done by sitting in the bathroom and running a hot shower.
• Exfoliate the area regularly. However, avoid over-exfoliating, as daily exfoliation can irritate the skin. Various exfoliating products are available online.
• Use sunscreen. High-protection sunscreens may be especially helpful. Factor 50 sunscreen is available for purchase in pharmacies and online.

• Using topical retinoids. Topical retinoids are creams or gels derived from vitamin A. While they are designed to treat acne and other skin issues, there is little evidence that they are effective in treating milia.
• Some research suggests that extracts of rose, cinnamon, and honey have antibacterial properties that can tackle some skin problems. However, there has been no research on their effectiveness with milia.
• Avoid poking or picking milia. While it may be tempting, this interference increases the risk of infection and can lead to scarring.

If you have milk spots, try these 6 natural remedies:

Honey

Honey is the best natural remedy for many skin conditions. Rub a bit of honey on your face every day and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse with water.

Oatmeal scrub

Grand a cup of oatmeal. Add a bit of water to make a paste. Rub the paste all over your face, especially the areas where you have white spots. Do this every day to get the best results.

Tomato juice

Tomato juice contains acids which can help against milia. Squeeze a tomato to get fresh juice and rub the juice all over your face. Pay extra attention to the areas where the white bumps are. Leave the juice on for 30 minutes and then wash off with warm water.

Castor oil

Castor oil is one of the best oil for treating skin conditions. Mix 1 tbsp of castor oil and 1 tbsp of olive oil. Apply the oil mixture on your face and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water afterwards.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil contains antiseptic and antibacterial properties that can help you prevent many skin problems. Gently massage the oil on the areas where you have milia and then rinse with warm water. Do this every day to remove the bumps.

Sugar and lemon scrub

Make a scrub by mixing lemon juice and sugar. Use the scrub every day to get rid of the milk spots. Massage the scrub gently into the areas and then rinse with warm water.

 

Prevention

How can I prevent milia?
You can’t prevent most cases of milia, especially neonatal milia. You can reduce your risk of developing certain types of milia that occur later in life by:

•     Avoiding excessive exposure to the sun.
•     Temporarily using thick facial creams/ointments.
•     Avoiding the use of steroids for longer than your provider prescribes.
•     Frequently exfoliating or using a cleanser on your skin.