Milium

Milium
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Milium (plural: milia) are small, white, keratin-filled cysts that appear just under the epidermis or on the roof of the mouth. They are most commonly found on the face, particularly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks, but can occur anywhere on the body.

Causes

Milia form when keratin, a protein found in skin tissue, hair, and nail cells, becomes trapped beneath the outer layer of skin. This can occur due to:

• Skin damage from burns or blisters
• Long-term sun exposure
• Use of thick creams or steroid creams
• Genetic disorders

Types

Milia are classified into several types based on their cause and age of onset:

• Primary milia: These occur spontaneously and are common in newborns.
• Secondary milia: These develop after skin trauma or injury.
• Juvenile milia: Associated with genetic conditions such as nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome.
• Milia en plaque: A rare form that appears as a raised patch on the skin.

Diagnosis

Milia are diagnosed based on their appearance. A dermatologist can usually identify them through a simple visual examination. In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Milia often resolve on their own without treatment. However, for cosmetic reasons or persistent cases, treatment options include:

• Topical retinoids
• Chemical peels
• Laser therapy
• Manual extraction by a dermatologist

Prevention

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing milia include:

• Regular exfoliation to remove dead skin cells
• Avoiding heavy creams and oil-based cosmetics
• Using sunscreen to protect against sun damage

See also

• Comedo
• Cyst
• Dermatology

External links

• American Academy of Dermatology: Milia