What causes milia (small fat granules) to appear on the face?

There are several causes of milia on the face. Hormonal imbalances may lead to excessive sebum production; if not cleaned promptly, this can clog pores and result in milia formation. Poor lifestyle habits—such as prolonged eye strain, fatigue, and staying up late—can slow local metabolism with age, which may also contribute to the development of milia. Over-cleansing the skin or using too many oily skincare products over a long period can easily create tiny wounds on the skin, prompting the skin to form small white cysts (milia) during the self-repair process. Dietary factors may also affect skin condition; for example, frequent consumption of greasy or fried foods can make skin secretions thicker and more likely to cause milia. Therefore, preventing milia requires maintaining healthy lifestyle and dietary habits, along with proper skincare practices.