Conditions
Milia
Milia Treatment In Sacramento
At Beauty By Barr MD, we specialize in the effective treatment of milia, those small, white, benign cysts that typically appear on the face and can be a source of cosmetic concern for many. Understanding that milia, while harmless, can impact one’s self-esteem, our clinic offers a range of safe and precise removal techniques. Under the expert care of Dr. Barr, our treatment options include meticulous extraction methods, topical retinoids, chemical peels, and laser therapy, each tailored to the individual’s skin type and condition. Our approach is gentle yet effective, focusing not only on the removal of existing milia but also on preventing future occurrences. Each patient receives a personalized care plan designed to achieve clear and smooth skin with minimal discomfort.
What Are Milia?
Milia are small, white, benign cysts that typically appear on the skin. They are commonly found on the face, particularly around the eyelids, cheeks, and nose, but can occur anywhere on the body. Each cyst is a tiny dome-shaped bump that is usually about 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter. Despite their small size, they can be a cosmetic concern for many people. Milia are not painful or harmful, but they can be persistent and difficult to get rid of without professional treatment. Unlike pimples or acne, they do not form from trapped dirt, bacteria, or oil, and they cannot be “popped” in the same way.
What Causes Milia?
- Skin Cell Renewal Process: Milia often occur when skin cells don’t exfoliate properly and become trapped beneath the skin’s surface, mixing with oil and other skin debris to form cysts.
- Damage to Sweat Ducts: Secondary milia can form when sweat ducts are damaged due to skin conditions, burns, blistering injuries, or long-term use of steroid creams.
- Use of Heavy Skincare or Cosmetic Products: Using heavy creams or oil-based products can lead to clogged pores, contributing to the formation of milia.
- Sun Damage: Prolonged sun exposure can damage the skin and increase the likelihood of milia due to the thickening of the outer layers of skin, which can trap keratin.
- Skin Resurfacing Procedures: Procedures like dermabrasion or laser resurfacing can sometimes cause milia during the healing process.
- Health Conditions: Certain health conditions and skin disorders can also be associated with the development of milia.
While milia are generally harmless and not a sign of a serious skin condition, their appearance can be a cosmetic concern for many. Treatment usually involves professional methods such as extraction, topical retinoids, or other procedures, as they do not typically go away on their own, especially in adults.