Millium: whiteheads on the skin, why they appear and how to remove them
Millium: whiteheads on the skin, why they appear and how to remove them
Did you know that 50% of people develop milium cysts in their lifetime? These small white bumps are known as “skin whiteheads.” They affect millions of people around the world. It’s important to understand why they arise and how to prevent them in order to have healthier skin .

Key aspects
- Milia are a common condition that manifests as small white cysts on the skin .
- These formations are due to an accumulation of keratin under the surface of the skin .
- There are risk factors such as sun exposure, unsuitable cosmetic products and certain skin conditions.
- Adopting a proper facial care routine and healthy lifestyle can help prevent the development of milium.
- In persistent cases, professional extraction may be necessary to effectively remove the cysts.
What is Millium?
Millium is a benign skin condition, often confused with whiteheads. It appears on the face, especially on the nose, cheeks and forehead. It is important to know its definition and how it differs from other pimples in order to treat it properly.
Definition and characteristics of Millium
Millium is characterized by small cysts or whiteheads under the skin. These cysts, 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter, are formed by the obstruction of hair follicles. Unlike blackheads , they have no connection to the skin.
Difference between Millium and other types of grains
- Whiteheads are formed by sebum and dead cells, while millium cysts are caused by clogged follicles.
- Acne pimples are red and inflamed, but millium cysts are small, hard, and white.
- Millium cysts do not harbor bacteria and do not become easily infected, unlike other pimples.
In conclusion, millium is distinguished from other pimples by its appearance, size and origin. This is key to identifying and treating this skin condition correctly.
Why do Millium cysts form?
Millium cysts are small and can be bothersome. They form due to factors that block hair follicles. It is not known exactly why, but a few main reasons have been identified.
One important cause is poor removal of dead skin cells. If these cells are not removed properly, they can block the pores. This can cause millium cysts. Using bad products or UV radiation also contributes to this problem.
Genetics also play a role in who may develop millium cysts. Some people may be more prone to this because of their genes.
In conclusion, follicle blockage, accumulation of dead cells and external factors damage the skin. These are the main factors that cause millium cysts. Understanding these origins helps prevent and treat the problem.

Factors that increase the risk of developing Millium
The appearance of millium cysts is related to several factors. These include sun exposure and UV radiation , incorrect use of cosmetic products and certain skin conditions .
Sun exposure and UV radiation
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major risk for millium cysts. This happens from being in the sun for too long or using tanning beds. UV radiation can damage the skin and disrupt cell renewal. This encourages the buildup of dead cells, causing the white cysts.
Unsuitable cosmetic products
Incorrect use of cosmetic products can also cause millium . Some cleansers, creams or make-up can block pores. This prevents the natural removal of dead cells, leading to the formation of cysts.
Skin conditions
Certain skin conditions increase the risk of millium . For example, certain dermatoses can disrupt cell renewal and peeling. This promotes the accumulation of dead cells and the appearance of cysts.
Risk factor | Effect on the appearance of Millium |
---|---|
Sun exposure and UV radiation | It damages the skin and alters cell renewal, promoting the formation of cysts. |
Unsuitable cosmetic products | Occlusive products can block pores and hinder the removal of dead cells. |
Skin conditions | Certain dermatoses alter cell renewal and peeling, leading to the appearance of cysts. |
Millium, whiteheads on the skin
Millium cysts are small white spots that appear on the face. They are most common on the cheeks, nose, and chin. They are filled with keratin, a skin protein, and are named for their appearance.
White millium dots indicate that the pore is closed. This means that the sebum is not oxidized. They do not have the red halo that indicates inflammation.
Millium cysts are benign but can be annoying. There are effective methods to remove them and prevent them from coming back.
Characteristics of whiteheads on the skin | Millium on the face |
---|---|
- Small and white - Full of keratin - Not accompanied by inflammation |
- Common on cheeks, nose and chin - They indicate that the pore remains closed - They can be annoying but they are benign |
In conclusion, millium cysts are common but not a health problem. Although they may be visible, there are solutions to reduce and eliminate them safely.
How to prevent the appearance of Millium cysts
To have healthy skin and avoid millium cysts, it is key to take good care of our skin and lifestyle. By following some simple recommendations, we can prevent the appearance of these white bumps.
Choosing the right products
It is vital to choose non-comedogenic products . These do not block the pores of the skin. Also, it is good to avoid occlusive products that cover too much of the skin. This helps us to keep the skin healthy and avoid millium cysts.
Facial care routine
A simple, consistent facial care routine is key. It helps remove dead skin cells and prevent millium cysts. Using a gentle facial cleanser at night and in the morning, and exfoliating weekly , can renew your skin.
Healthy lifestyle
Our lifestyle also plays an important role. Getting enough sleep, managing stress, exercising regularly , and avoiding alcohol, tobacco, saturated fats, and sugar can help prevent millium cysts.
"Adopting healthy habits and choosing products that are suitable for our skin are key to keeping it healthy and preventing the appearance of millium cysts."
How to remove Millium cysts
To eliminate millium cysts , deep facial cleansing and specific treatments are key. A well-done facial cleansing removes dirt, makeup and impurities. This prevents pores from becoming clogged and white cysts from appearing.
Deep facial cleansing
It is good to do facial cleansing twice a day. Use mild facial cleansers so as not to irritate the skin. This keeps the pores clean and prevents the buildup of debris that causes millium cysts .
Masks and specific treatments
Using clay masks is also beneficial. They absorb oil and cleanse the skin. Applying them two to three times a week can reduce millium cysts .
Specific treatments for millium , such as serums with niacinamide, also help. They unclog pores and make cysts less visible.
With these facial cleansing steps and specific treatments , you can eliminate millium cysts . This will give you healthier, brighter skin.
Professional Millium Extraction
If millium extraction cysts do not disappear or are near the eyes, it is best to go to a dermatologist. Specialists can perform millium extraction treatments with safe techniques. This way, the small whiteheads are removed effectively.
A common way is professional exfoliation. A sterile tool is used to remove the surface skin and dislodge the cysts. This improves the skin, making the pimples less visible.
Skin scrubbing is another option. The dermatologist makes a small incision with a sterile needle. This removes the milium cysts manually. This is good for difficult cases or in delicate areas.
It is essential that these millium extraction treatments are performed by professionals. They must follow strict hygiene and safety standards. Doing them yourself can cause infections or make the skin worse.
If you haven't had success treating them at home, see a dermatologist. He or she will help you find the best millium removal treatment for you. With a good diagnosis and treatment, you can have healthier skin without those whiteheads.
Additional Tips for Dealing with Millium
In addition to the millium prevention and removal methods, there are additional tips. These can help you take care of your skin and avoid white cysts.
It is key to keep your skin hydrated. This balances sebum and prevents clogged pores. Choose products that are suitable for your skin and take care of your skin regularly.
- Use moisturizing and non-comedogenic products to prevent the accumulation of dead cells and fat in the hair follicles.
- Exfoliate your skin gently and regularly to keep pores clean and free of impurities.
- Protect your skin from excessive exposure to the sun and UV radiation, as these factors can increase the risk of developing millium.
- Leading a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, will help keep your skin in optimal condition.
With these tips, you can prevent and treat millium, thus achieving healthier and more radiant skin.
Millium Skin Care Tips | Benefits |
---|---|
Keep your skin hydrated | Balances sebum production and prevents pore clogging |
Use non-comedogenic products | Prevents the accumulation of dead cells and fat in the follicles |
Exfoliate your skin gently and regularly | Keeps pores clean and free of impurities |
Protect skin from UV exposure | Reduces the risk of developing millium |
Lead a healthy lifestyle | Helps keep the skin in optimal condition |
With these tips, you can prevent and treat millium, thus achieving healthier and more radiant skin.
Conclusion
Milium cysts are white spots that can be bothersome on the skin. They can be treated and prevented with proper care. It is important to cleanse the skin regularly, use the right products and live a healthy life.
If milium cysts do not go away, it is best to consult a dermatologist. He can safely remove them. With patience and care, you can have radiant, cyst-free skin.
Following the recommendations in this article helps you understand and prevent milium. You also know how to treat it if necessary. The key is to take good care of your skin and be patient to have perfect skin.
FAQ
What is Millium?
Milium cysts are small white bumps on the skin. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the face. These bumps form when keratin builds up under the skin.
What is the difference between Millium and other types of grains?
Milia and whiteheads are similar. Both form from a buildup of material under the skin. However, whiteheads are caused by sebum and bacteria, while milium cysts block hair follicles.
Why do Millium cysts form?
It is not known exactly why milium cysts arise. However, it is thought to be due to the obstruction of hair follicles. This may be due to poor removal of dead cells or genetic factors.
What factors increase the risk of developing Millium?
Factors such as UV radiation, excessive use of hygiene products, and certain skin conditions can increase the risk of developing milium cysts.
How to differentiate whiteheads from millium?
Milium cysts are white and form in groups on the face. They are benign and superficial. Blackheads, on the other hand, indicate that the pore is still closed.
How can you prevent the appearance of Millium cysts?
To prevent them, it is key to choose non-comedogenic products and follow a facial care routine . It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
How can Millium cysts be removed?
To get rid of them, it is important to cleanse the skin thoroughly twice a day. Using clay masks and applying serums with niacinamide also helps. If they persist, it is best to consult a dermatologist.
How is professional Millium extraction performed?
Professionals use a sterile needle to make a small incision and safely remove the cysts.
What other tips are helpful for dealing with Millium?
Keeping your skin hydrated is key to avoiding clogged pores. Choosing the right products and following a facial care routine also helps prevent and treat Millium.