Skincare — Bumps & texture
How to get rid of milia, safely.
Milia are tiny white bumps that won't pop like spots. Here is what causes them, how to get rid of milia at home and when to see a professional.
6 minute read
Written and reviewed by Beauty World Editorial · Last reviewed October 2026
What they are
What is milia?
Milia are tiny, hard, white or yellowish bumps, usually 1–2 mm, most often around the eyes, cheeks and nose. They are trapped keratin under the skin's surface — not whiteheads — so they have no opening and cannot be squeezed out.
Causes
What causes milia?
Heavy creams
Rich eye creams and occlusive products can trap dead skin cells.
Sun damage
UV thickens the skin's surface, making it harder for cells to shed.
Skin trauma
Burns, blistering, laser or harsh peels can leave milia as skin heals.
Babies
Newborn milia are very common and clear without treatment in a few weeks.
At home
How to get rid of milia at home
1. Stop picking
Squeezing won't work and can scar or cause infection.
2. Exfoliate gently
Use a lactic, glycolic or salicylic acid product 2–3 times a week to speed up cell turnover.
3. Add a retinoid
A retinol serum at night (or adapalene, available at UK pharmacies) helps keratin shed over 6–12 weeks.
4. Switch to lighter products
Swap thick eye creams for gel textures labelled non-comedogenic.
5. Wear SPF daily
Sunscreen prevents the thickened skin that encourages new milia.
In clinic
Professional milia removal
A dermatologist or trained aesthetician can remove milia in minutes with a sterile needle (de-roofing) and extraction. Other options include chemical peels, cryotherapy and laser. Never try needle extraction at home, especially near the eyes.
