Milia are those tiny, hard white bumps that often appear on the face, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and nose.
While they’re harmless, they can be stubborn and frustrating when they refuse to go away on their own.
The good news?
With the right skin-care habits and tools, you can help remove milia gently and prevent them from coming back.
In this post, we will explore 5 ways to remove milia, starting with their causes.
Let’s dive in!
What Causes Milia?
Milia form when keratin, one of the proteins that make up your skin, gets trapped under the surface instead of shedding naturally.
This can happen for several reasons, including buildup of dead skin cells, heavy or occlusive skincare products, sun damage, or even long-term use of steroid creams.
Some people also develop milia after skin irritation or injury, while others simply have a skin type that’s more prone to them.
Whatever the cause, milia are not acne, and picking or squeezing them rarely works and can damage your skin.
Safe, consistent care is the key to improving them.
1. Use a Milia Treatment Kit
One of the most effective ways to remove milia safely is by using a milia treatment kit designed specifically for tiny, hard-to-reach keratin bumps.
These kits typically include gently exfoliating solutions, precise extraction tools, and soothing post-treatment products to help soften the skin and allow milia to come out without damaging delicate areas like the eyelids or cheeks.
They help target buildup at the source while protecting the surrounding skin.
Out of all of the milia kits I’ve tried, TreeActiv’s Milia Kit is my personal favorite.
TreeActiv’s Milia Kit is a powerful, all-in-one solution designed to help you safely remove milia and restore smoother, clearer skin.
The overnight milia remover cream uses bentonite clay, tea tree oil, and aloe vera to gently draw out trapped impurities while calming the skin.
The stainless-steel tool kit, with 10 professional-grade extraction heads, gives you the precision needed for safe, at-home removal.
Paired with hydrocolloid patches that help flatten and absorb residue, this kit delivers a complete routine for tackling stubborn milia with confidence.
Grab yours to help with your milia below.
2. Exfoliate Regularly (Gently!)
Because milia form from trapped dead skin cells, gentle exfoliation is one of the best long-term ways to prevent and reduce them.
Use a mild chemical exfoliant (like lactic acid or mandelic acid) a few times per week to encourage cell turnover and clear away buildup that can trap keratin.
Avoid harsh scrubs or over-exfoliating, especially around the eyes, since irritation can make milia worse.
Consistency, not intensity, is what helps keep the skin smooth.
3. Choose Lightweight, Non-Comedogenic Products
Heavy creams, oils, and occlusive skin-care products can trap keratin and contribute to milia, especially around the eyes.
Opting for lighter, non-comedogenic formulas helps your skin breathe and shed naturally.
Gel-based moisturizers, water-based serums, and non-greasy eye creams are all great alternatives.
Making this switch alone can noticeably reduce new milia from forming.
4. Steam and Warm Compresses
Warmth softens the skin and can help loosen keratin trapped under the surface.
Using steam (like from a hot shower) or a warm compress for a few minutes before exfoliating or using a treatment kit helps everything work more effectively.
Steam won’t remove milia on its own, but it preps your skin, opens pathways, and reduces discomfort if extraction is needed.
5. See a Dermatologist for Professional Extraction
For stubborn or sensitive-area milia, especially those around the eyes, a dermatologist can safely extract them in just a few minutes.
Professionals use sterile, precise tools and techniques to open the skin and lift out the trapped keratin without damaging surrounding tissue.
If you’ve tried home care without success, or if the milia are recurring, professional help is the fastest and safest route to clear skin.
Ease Milia
Milia can be persistent, but with the right skin-care habits and tools, you can remove them safely and keep them from returning.
A dedicated milia treatment kit is a helpful first step, especially when paired with gentle exfoliation, lightweight products, and proper skin prep.
And for the bumps that won’t budge, professional extraction ensures a quick and safe solution.
With patience and consistency, smooth, clear skin is absolutely within reach.
Thank you for reading!
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Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. This blog or the writer is not a licensed healthcare professional, and the content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making any changes to your healthcare routine.
