IF YOU SEE THESE TINY, WHITE SPOTS ON YOUR FACE, DO NOT TRY TO REMOVE THEM

Healthy

Did you know this?

These small white spots are most likely milia (singular: milium). They are tiny cysts that form just beneath the surface of the skin, and they are not pimples, whiteheads, or acne.

❓ What Are Milia?

  • Milia are small, hard, white or yellowish bumps.
  • They typically appear on the cheeks, eyelids, nose, forehead, or chin.
  • They form when keratin (a protein found in skin, hair, and nails) becomes trapped under the skin.
  • Common in infants and adults, especially with dry, damaged, or sun-exposed skin.

⚠️ Why You Should NOT Try to Remove Them Yourself:

  1. They are not extractable like pimples
    • Milia have no opening or pore, so squeezing or poking won’t help — it only damages your skin.
  2. Risk of infection and scarring
    • Using needles or fingers can introduce bacteria, leading to redness, infection, or permanent scars.
  3. Delicate areas at risk
    • Milia often occur around the eyes, where the skin is thin and sensitive. Trying to remove them yourself can cause irritation or even eye injury.

✅ What You Should Do Instead:

🧴 1. Use Gentle Exfoliation

  • Look for products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) or beta hydroxy acids (BHA) like:
    • Glycolic acid
    • Lactic acid
    • Salicylic acid
  • These help to loosen dead skin cells and may allow the milia to surface and resolve naturally.

🧼 2. Cleanse Regularly and Gently

  • Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
  • Avoid heavy or pore-clogging creams — especially around the eyes.

☀️ 3. Use Sunscreen Daily

  • UV damage increases the likelihood of milia.
  • Use non-comedogenic SPF to protect your skin and prevent further buildup.

🧖 4. Try Warm Compresses

  • Apply a warm, damp cloth to the area for a few minutes daily. It may help open the skin slightly over time.

🧑‍⚕️ 5. Consult a Dermatologist

  • If milia persist or bother you, a licensed skin specialist can safely extract them using sterilized tools.
  • Dermatologists may also use chemical peels, laser treatments, or retinoid creams to help manage recurring milia.

🟡 When Should You Be Concerned?

  • If the white spots change shape, color, or size, or if they become painful, it could be something other than milia.
  • Seek professional evaluation to rule out conditions like sebaceous cysts, milky spots from sun damage, or other dermatological issues.

🔑 In Summary:

  • Don’t squeeze or pick at white spots on your face — they are likely milia, not acne.
  • Use gentle skincare and exfoliation.
  • Protect your skin from sun damage.
  • See a dermatologist for safe and effective removal.
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