What Is Milia Understanding & Treating This Common Skin Condition

If you’ve ever noticed small, white bumps on your face—especially around your eyes or cheeks—you’re not alone. These tiny, hard cysts are called milia (singular: milium), and while they’re completely harmless, they can be frustrating for many people who want smooth, even skin.

In Calgary, where the climate is known for its dry air, harsh winters, and frequent temperature swings, it’s not uncommon for skin concerns like milia to show up throughout the year. The dry environment can affect how your skin renews itself, making it more prone to issues like clogged pores and trapped keratin. Understanding what milia are and how to treat them can help you manage your skin more confidently in Calgary’s unique weather conditions.

What Are Milia?

Milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that appear just under the surface of the skin. They’re often mistaken for whiteheads, but they’re quite different. While whiteheads are a type of acne caused by clogged pores and excess oil, milia are tiny cysts filled with keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails.

You’ll usually find milia:

• Around the eyes, especially under the lower eyelid

• On the cheeks

• On the forehead or nose

• Occasionally on the torso or limbs (less common)

They’re not red or inflamed, don’t hurt, and aren’t contagious. In fact, milia are extremely common in both adults and children—including newborns.

What Causes Milia?

The main culprit behind milia is trapped keratin. When dead skin cells get stuck instead of naturally sloughing off, they can form a small cyst. While the exact trigger isn’t always clear, several factors can increase the chances of developing milia:

Common causes include:

• Skin damage (from sunburn, blisters, or certain procedures like laser treatments)

• Heavy or occlusive skincare products that clog the skin

• Aging skin, which renews itself more slowly

• Genetics—some people are simply more prone to developing milia

• Use of steroid creams over a long period

  
  

In newborns, milia are usually present at birth due to immature skin and typically go away on their own within a few weeks.

Are Milia a Cause for Concern?

For most people, milia are strictly a cosmetic concern. They don’t pose any health risk and don’t typically lead to further skin issues. However, they can be stubborn and hard to get rid of without proper care. That said, if you notice bumps that change in appearance, become inflamed, or are accompanied by other symptoms, it’s worth checking in with an esthetician or dermatologist.

How to Treat Milia

Milia often clear up on their own, especially in babies. But for adults, especially if the bumps are persistent or bothersome, there are several effective treatment options.

1. Gentle Exfoliation

Routine exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and may prevent new milia from forming. Look for chemical exfoliants like:

• Glycolic acid

• Lactic acid

• Salicylic acid

These ingredients promote cell turnover without the harshness of physical scrubs, which can irritate the skin—especially around the eyes.

2. Retinoids

Topical retinoids (like retinol or tretinoin) can help loosen the buildup of keratin under the skin. These are available over the counter or by prescription in Canada. However, they can be drying, so it’s important to use them gradually and follow up with moisturizer.

3. Professional Extraction

If milia don’t respond to at-home treatments, a dermatologist or licensed esthetician can perform a manual extraction. This involves using a sterile needle or tool to gently open the cyst and remove the keratin. It’s quick, effective—and best left to professionals to avoid scarring or infection.

4. Laser Therapy or Microdermabrasion

For more persistent cases, skin specialist might recommend laser therapy or microdermabrasion. These treatments remove the upper layers of skin and encourage healthy turnover.

5. Avoiding Heavy Skincare Products

In some cases, thick creams or products with heavy oils (like petroleum jelly or mineral oil) may contribute to milia. Switching to non-comedogenic, lightweight formulas—especially for facial skincare—can make a big difference.

Can You Prevent Milia?

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent milia, a consistent skincare routine can significantly reduce the chances of developing them. Here are some easy-to-follow tips:

• Cleanse your face daily to remove dirt, oil, and makeup

• Exfoliate 1–2 times a week using gentle acids suited to your skin type

• Use sunscreen every day, even in winter—sun damage can trigger milia

• Avoid thick or greasy skincare products, especially around the eyes

• Give your skin time to renew—don't overdo exfoliation or use too many active ingredients at once

  
  

Especially in Canadian winters, when skin tends to get dry and flaky, it’s tempting to slather on heavier products. Opt for hydrating serums and breathable moisturizers instead of occlusive creams if you’re prone to milia.

Conclusion

Milia may be small, but they can be a big source of frustration—especially when they stick around despite your best efforts. The good news is that they’re harmless, common, and manageable with the right care. Whether you’re dealing with one or many, knowing what causes milia and how to treat them can help you make smarter skincare choices and feel more confident in your skin.

In a city like Calgary, where chinooks, cold snaps, and dry prairie winds can take a toll on your skin, staying consistent with a gentle skincare routine is especially important. Calgary’s unique climate can impact how your skin behaves throughout the year, so understanding and responding to those changes can go a long way in preventing conditions like milia.

If you're ever unsure about what's happening with your skin, it’s always a good idea to speak with a skin specialist or local dermatologist. Your skin is as individual as you are—and taking care of it is always worth the effort.

Struggling with Milia? SkinLAB Calgary Can Help

At SkinLAB, we understand how frustrating milia can be—especially in Calgary’s dry, unpredictable climate.

Visit us in-store or online to explore our curated selection of products. Let’s work together to create a personalized plan that gets you back to feeling confident in your skin.

Clearer skin starts here—right at SkinLAB Calgary.