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Do you have small, white pimples under your eyes? We'll show you how to get rid of milia (also called skin grit)!
What are milia?
At first glance, milia, also called skin grits or grains of semolina, look like blackheads. Almost every second baby is affected, but so are children and adults. But behind the little pimples on the skin there is something completely different. Milia are actually cysts filled with keratin and dead skin that form just below the skin and look like white or yellowish bumps on the surface. In contrast to pimples, they are very hard. Here you can find out what you should know about them and how you can treat them.
How is skin semolina made?
Those who have milia usually already know it from their families. Skin grit is inheritable and occurs mainly in women whose hormones are currently changing (for example during menopause). However, semolina can also be found in babies. In boys in particular, they often appear all over the face shortly after birth. This also has to do with the mother's sex hormones.
Most often, however, milia arise when dead skin cells build up and settle in the pores near the surface of the skin. If the buildup is not expelled naturally, the small cysts can develop.
How can one remove milia?
Since the semolina grains on the face are usually very hard, they cannot simply be squeezed out like a blackhead - and you shouldn't either! Depending on the dermatologist or beautician, specialists remove the milia with a comedo extractor, a lancing tool or a needle. The first layer of skin is scratched and the milia can be removed without damaging the surrounding skin.
How can you prevent skin grit?
The skin of people prone to milia should be cleaned thoroughly every day. However, one should make sure that the sebum production is not stimulated too much.
How to prevent milia:
- Chemical AHA or BHA peels
- Retinol
- Sun protection, as UV rays can favor milia
- a good moisturizer
- Avoid greasy creams
- Avoid sunbathing
- never go to sleep with makeup on
