What Are Milia?

Milia are tiny white or yellowish cysts that form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin's surface. Unlike acne, milia are not caused by clogged pores, bacteria, or excess oil production.

They commonly appear as:

• Small white bumps
• Firm cyst-like lesions
• Smooth raised papules
• Pearl-like spots beneath the skin

Milia can occur in both children and adults and are especially common on the face.

Common Areas Where Milia Develop

Milia frequently appear on:

• Under-eye area
• Upper eyelids
• Lower eyelids
• Cheeks
• Forehead
• Nose
• Temple area
• Around the mouth
• Jawline
• Neck

The delicate skin around the eyes is one of the most common treatment areas.

What Causes Milia?

Several factors may contribute to milia formation:

• Natural skin renewal processes
• Sun damage
• Aging skin
• Heavy skincare products
• Occlusive cosmetics
• Skin injury
• Laser treatments
• Chemical peels
• Chronic irritation
• Genetic predisposition

Milia are not contagious and are generally harmless, but many patients seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.

Why Remove Milia?

Patients often choose milia removal because:

• White bumps become more noticeable
• Makeup does not cover them effectively
• They affect skin smoothness
• Multiple lesions develop over time
• They create uneven skin texture
• They affect confidence
• Home treatments are ineffective
• Cosmetic appearance is important

Professional extraction often provides the fastest and most predictable results.

Types of Milia

Primary Milia

These develop spontaneously without a clear triggering event and commonly appear around the eyes and cheeks.

Secondary Milia

These develop after skin trauma or procedures such as:

• Laser treatments
• Burns
• Skin resurfacing
• Chemical peels
• Chronic inflammation

Multiple Milia

Some patients develop numerous lesions across several facial regions, requiring comprehensive treatment.

How Milia Are Diagnosed

At NewRizz Skin Clinic, lesions are carefully examined because not all white facial bumps are milia.

Conditions that may resemble milia include:

• Closed comedones
• Sebaceous hyperplasia
• Syringomas
• Xanthelasma
• Small epidermal cysts
• Other benign skin lesions

Accurate diagnosis helps ensure the most appropriate treatment approach.

Milia Removal Treatment Options

Manual Extraction

The most common and effective treatment involves creating a tiny opening and carefully extracting the trapped keratin.

Laser Treatment

Laser technology may be used for selected cases, particularly when multiple lesions are present.

Electrocautery

Certain lesions can be treated using precise electrical energy.

Combination Treatments

Some patients benefit from a combination of extraction and skin renewal treatments.

Benefits of Professional Milia Removal

Professional treatment offers:

• Immediate results
• Precise removal
• Minimal skin trauma
• Reduced recurrence risk
• Accurate diagnosis
• Improved skin texture
• Cosmetic improvement
• Safe treatment around delicate areas

Professional extraction is particularly important around the eyelids where self-treatment can cause injury.

Recovery After Milia Removal

Recovery is generally quick and uncomplicated.

Patients may experience:

• Mild redness
• Temporary sensitivity
• Small pinpoint scabs
• Minor swelling
• Temporary dryness

Most patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

How to Prevent Future Milia

Preventive strategies may include:

• Regular exfoliation
• Appropriate skincare products
• Sun protection
• Avoiding overly heavy creams
• Professional skin assessments
• Medical-grade skincare when indicated

Prevention strategies vary depending on skin type and contributing factors.

Milia Removal for International Patients

Korea is internationally recognized for advanced cosmetic dermatology and skin treatments. NewRizz Skin Clinic welcomes international patients seeking safe and effective milia removal.

Many patients can receive consultation and treatment during the same visit, making milia removal a convenient procedure for visitors to Seoul.

Why Choose NewRizz Skin Clinic?

NewRizz Skin Clinic provides personalized milia treatment with a focus on safety, precision, and cosmetic excellence.

Patients benefit from:

• Expert dermatologic evaluation
• Advanced treatment technologies
• Precise extraction techniques
• Cosmetic-focused outcomes
• Minimal downtime
• International patient support
• Modern dermatology care in Seoul

Frequently Asked Questions

What are milia?

Milia are small keratin-filled cysts that develop beneath the skin surface and appear as tiny white bumps.

Are milia dangerous?

No. Milia are benign skin lesions and are generally harmless, although many patients choose removal for cosmetic reasons.

Can milia disappear on their own?

Some milia may eventually resolve naturally, but many persist for months or years without treatment.

Is milia the same as acne?

No. Milia are keratin-filled cysts and are not caused by bacteria, clogged pores, or excess oil production.

Can I remove milia at home?

Home removal is not recommended, especially around the eyes. Improper extraction may cause scarring, infection, or skin damage.

Is milia removal painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. The procedure is generally well tolerated and performed quickly.

Will milia removal leave scars?

Professional milia removal typically heals with minimal visible scarring when performed appropriately.

How long does milia removal take?

Most treatments can be completed during a short outpatient visit.

Can milia come back after treatment?

Removed milia generally do not return, but new milia may develop in other areas over time.

Can international patients receive same-day treatment?

Yes. Many international patients can receive consultation and treatment during the same visit.