how to get rid of these small imperfections under the skin?

If we know how to react when we have blackheads or inflamed red pimples, we are sometimes helpless when we notice small white buttons on his face. When they pierce, it is better not to touch them in reality because they are imperfections that can become infected. But it also happens that these micro white buttons are hard to the touch and that no pus or blood comes out when you try to pierce them. It is then a question of grain of milia, microcysts which are not even buttons!

Most often harmless, these whiteheads, which measure only a few millimeters in diameter, are due to an accumulation of keratin in the superficial layers of the skin. They can appear absolutely on all skin types, from the youngest such as those of babies to the most mature, on dry skin as well as on oily skin. A grain of milium can also appear in isolation, but these small white cysts sometimes develop in mass to form a kind of plaque. They then give the skin a somewhat rough texture. They are mainly located on sebum-rich areas of the face such as around the eyes or mouth, on the nose, cheeks and forehead. They also sometimes appear on the back and chest, or on the ears and hands. We distinguish the so-called “congenital” milium grainsi.e. those that appear at birth, grains of milia called “acquired” that develop later in life.

Grains of milium: what are the causes?

The origin of the grains of milia remains still rather poorly known but these microcysts seem to result most often from the obstruction of the pores of the skin when the dead cells are poorly eliminated. They are not uncommon on irritated skin, which is why an overly aggressive skincare routine can also be the cause. Just like the use of comedogenic or too rich treatments. Too long UV exposure would also be an aggravating factor.
Milium grains can also go hand in hand with certain dermatological diseases, such as epidermolysis bullosa (a genetic disease that causes poor healing of the skin) or the use of certain skin treatments such as retinoids.

How to get rid of milium grains?

Congenital milium grains, that is to say those that appear at birth, disappear on their own after a few weeks. Acquired milium grains also end up disappearing spontaneously even if it is sometimes necessary to be patient to find clear skin. However, if their unsightly appearance bothers you, it is possible to go see a dermatologist to have them removed using a very fine sterile needle. Since the grains of milia are located in the superficial layers of the skin, the act is neither difficult nor painful. However, do not attempt to perform the procedure alone at home to avoid any risk of infection and scarring.

If you don’t want to go through that to remove them, know that you can also use a dry towel to exfoliate the area where the milium grain(s) is (are) by rubbing it on dry skin in order to accelerate their disappearance.

Grain de milium: what to do to avoid them?

Adopt a beauty routine that respects the epidermis by favoring non-comedogenic treatments, those that are not too rich for your skin type, and by carrying out gentle gestures and treatments with the skin. Limit your sun exposure and don’t skimp on care when your skin is irritated.