How to Treat Milia

“Milium” (commonly referred to as “fat granules” in cosmetic contexts) is a colloquial term for small, yellowish-white, grain-like cysts that typically appear around the eyes. Below, we address how milia are treated.

How Are Milia Treated?

Milia can be effectively treated either by sterile needle extraction or laser therapy.

1. Sterile Needle Extraction: Milia on the face may affect one’s appearance. Prolonged consumption of excessively greasy foods—leading to clogged pores—or frequent use of heavy, oil-based cosmetics may contribute to their development. If milia are mild, sterile needle extraction may be performed to remove them, offering a practical and effective solution.

2. Laser Therapy: For more pronounced or widespread cases, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist at a hospital and undergo carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser treatment. CO₂ laser therapy delivers precise energy to deeper layers of skin tissue, inducing controlled vaporization of affected tissue, enhancing local blood circulation, and accelerating metabolic turnover—thereby promoting rapid absorption and resolution of milia.

Additional Information: Causes of Milia

Milia arise when tiny micro-injuries occur on the skin surface; during the natural healing process, keratin becomes trapped beneath the epidermis, forming small, white, keratin-filled cysts. Regular intake of high-fat foods or use of occlusive cosmetics may predispose individuals to milia. Systemic factors—including hormonal imbalances (e.g., excessive sebum production due to endocrine dysfunction)—can also contribute: inadequate facial cleansing allows excess sebum to accumulate and block hair follicles, resulting in milia. Additionally, weakened spleen and stomach function—impairing fat digestion and metabolism—may increase susceptibility to milia formation.

The above outlines common approaches to treating milia. We hope this information proves helpful.