January 21, 2010
Milia Skin Disorder
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Milia are deep-rooted white bumps that form when skin cells and sebaceous matter become trapped. They occur when dead, normally sloughed-off skin becomes trapped in small pockets at the surface of the skin or mouth.... |
Milia are deep-rooted white bumps that form when skin cells and sebaceous matter become trapped. They occur when dead, normally sloughed-off skin becomes trapped in small pockets at the surface of the skin or mouth. Milia are common in newborn infants and appear as pearly white bumps, most commonly across the upper cheeks, nose, and chin. They are also commonly seen on the faces of adults or in areas of trauma or inflammation and around eyes and cheek. Milia generally disappear after the first several weeks of life. This same type of cystic structure is seen on the gums and soft palate of newborn infants. In these mucous membranes, they are called Epstein's pearls. These lesions also disappear spontaneously. In adults it may persist for life it measures are not taken.
Why does it occur?
Common myth is that it occurs because skin is not kept clean. But cleanliness is not the problem it is the skin's ability to exfoliate. The common causes are
1. Abundant use of skin care product: Comedogenic creams and lotions may prevent the sloughing of dead epidermal skin cells. Sunscreens, Lotions, eye makeup, makeup remover may cause milia.
2. Exposure to Sun: History of spending long hours in skin can cause early aging of skin. Aging skin forms a thicker epidermis; thicker skin also makes for more road blocks in the pathway to exfoliation.
3. Skin disorder: Certain skin diseases can stimulate milia formation. One of such skin condition is Porphyria (formation of blisters on skin).
4. Genetics: It is a inherited disorder.
5. Improper Handling: In children irritation of the skin by rough sheets or clothing may cause mild reddening around the bump, but the central portion remains white.
Prevention: There is no known prevention. Exfoliation seems to be the key.
What can be done?
1. Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation can help. Use gentle peel offs containing alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or Beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid). For better results use it once a week.
2. Masks: Use clay mask once a week to keep skin pores open.
3. Microdermabrasion: If home treatments above mentioned do not help. Dermatologist can remove outer dermis with the help of chemicals. This can be a rapid method of removing white heads.
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