How to Get Rid of Milia: Causes, Prevention & Treatments in Nanaimo, BC

yourskinmagician1
Aug 5
2 min read

Have you ever noticed tiny, stubborn white or yellowish bumps on your face that just won't pop? Those are likely milia—small, benign cysts that commonly appear around the delicate eye area, cheeks, and nose.

Because milia reside just beneath the epidermis, squeezing or trying to pop them like a regular pimple will only irritate your skin and potentially leave scars. Here is a look at what causes milia, how to prevent them, and the most effective ways to treat them safely in Nanaimo.

What Are Milia?

Milia form when dead skin flakes (keratin) become trapped underneath the surface of the skin rather than sloughing off naturally. Unlike acne, milia are not filled with pus or bacteria, nor are they linked to clogged pores or inflammation. They are hard, tiny cysts sealed under a thin layer of skin.

Common Causes of Milia:

Natural Cell Turnover Slowdown: As skin aging slows cell renewal, dead cells can easily get trapped.
Heavy Skincare & Makeup: Using rich, occlusive creams or heavy eye products that block the skin’s natural exfoliation.
Sun Damage: Long-term exposure to UV rays can coarsen skin tissue, making it harder for dead skin to shed.
Skin Trauma: Milia can form after micro-injuries, severe sunburns, or resurfacing treatments if skin healing is impaired.

Can You Remove Milia at Home?

Short answer: No. Because milia are covered by a layer of skin cells, squeezing them like a blackhead or pimple will not work. Attempting to pick, scratch, or prick them at home often causes skin tearing, infection, hyperpigmentation, and permanent scarring.

Effective Clinical Treatments for Milia in Nanaimo

Professional skincare treatments are the safest and fastest way to clear milia while preserving your skin's texture and integrity.

1. Professional Extraction

During an in-clinic facial or clinical treatment, a trained skin professional uses a sterile micro-lancet to create a microscopic opening over the bump, allowing the trapped keratin core to be gently removed without damaging the surrounding tissue. This is included in our Advanced Custom Facial, when needed..

2. Medical-Grade Facials & Hydrodermabrasion

Treatments like the Bela MD Hydrofacial combine gentle diamond microdermabrasion, deep ultrasonic exfoliation, and targeted serum infusion. This deep exfoliation accelerates cell turnover, unroofing early-stage milia and preventing new ones from forming.

3. Professional Chemical Peels

Customized chemical peels containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs like salicylic acid) break down dead skin buildup, promoting smoother skin texture and encouraging natural shedding.

How to Prevent Milia

Switch to Non-Comedogenic Hydration: Swap out thick, heavy eye creams for lightweight, hydrating gels.
Exfoliate Regularly: Incorporate gentle chemical exfoliants (like AHA/BHA serums) 2–3 times a week into your home routine.
Wear Daily Sunscreen: Protect your skin with a broad-spectrum mineral SPF 30+ daily to prevent UV damage and skin thickening.