How to Get Rid of Milia Under Eyes

Milia under the eyes can be frustrating and unsightly. These tiny cysts can appear stubborn and are often found in delicate areas like under the eyes. However, fear not!

If you’re wondering how to get rid of milia under eyes, this article will walk you through the easy ways to do it without hurting your skin.

What are Milia?

Milia are small, white cysts that can appear on the skin. They are most common on the face, but they can also appear on the body. These small white bumps are caused by dead skin cells getting trapped in the pores, leading to a buildup of keratin. They are harmless and do not need to be treated. However, some people may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.

There are two types of milia:

  • Primary milia: Primary milia are most common in newborns and infants. They usually go away on their own within a few weeks.
  • Secondary milia: Secondary milia can develop at any age. They are often caused by skin damage, such as sunburn, blisters, or acne.

Causes of milia under eyes

Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor at Yale School of Medicine, said that milia under the eyes are common skin condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, skin type, and certain medications. One primary cause is the accumulation of dead skin cells, which can become trapped beneath the skin due to various reasons like dry skin, sun damage, or specific skin conditions. Another contributor is the buildup of keratin, a protein naturally present in the skin, hair, and nails. When keratin accumulates beneath the skin, it forms milia. Skin damage resulting from factors like sunburn, blisters, or acne can also pave the way for milia formation. Additionally, certain medications, including corticosteroids and isotretinoin, can elevate the risk of developing milia. 

According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology: Milia under the eyes are more common in women than in men, and that they are more likely to occur in people with fair skin. The study also found that milia under the eyes are more likely to occur in people with a family history of milia. While milia are more commonly associated with newborns and infants, they can arise at any age.

how to get rid of milia under eyes: home remedies

There are a few home remedies that you can try to remove milia under your eyes. However, it is important to note that these remedies are not always effective and may irritate your skin. If you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your doctor or dermatologist before trying any home remedies.

Warm Compresses

Begin by applying a warm compress to the affected area daily for a few minutes. This gentle heat helps to soften the skin, making it easier for the milia to surface and eventually release.

Exfoliation

Next, consider gentle exfoliation to encourage the removal of dead skin cells and reduce keratin buildup. Use a soft washcloth or a mild exfoliating scrub to delicately massage the affected area. This step aids in keeping the skin clear and the milia at bay.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Harness the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar. Create a mixture by combining equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. Apply this solution to the affected area using a cotton ball. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off with cool water. This can help in minimizing inflammation and promoting milia resolution.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice, a natural astringent, can assist in drying out the milia. Apply a small amount of fresh lemon juice to the affected area with a cotton ball. Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse it off with cool water. This can help facilitate the milia’s departure by reducing their size and prominence over time.

Medical treatments to remove milia under the eyes

Extraction

The most common method for milia removal involves a dermatologist using a sterile needle or lancet to carefully extract the trapped keratin from beneath the skin’s surface. This procedure is relatively quick and tends to be minimally painful, offering a straightforward solution for eliminating milia.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a slightly more invasive approach that employs a rotating abrasive wheel to exfoliate the top layer of skin. While effective for removing milia and various skin imperfections, it necessitates a longer recovery period compared to extraction due to its deeper impact on the skin’s surface.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels utilize acidic solutions to exfoliate and remove the top layer of skin, offering another avenue for milia removal. This method is less invasive than dermabrasion and typically requires multiple treatments to achieve the desired results. Chemical peels can be effective in addressing milia while rejuvenating the overall appearance of the skin.

A 2022 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that a combination of dermabrasion and chemical peels is an effective treatment for milia under the eyes. The study also concluded that this treatment is associated with a low risk of side effects.

tips to prevent milia

  • Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. Avoid using harsh chemicals or exfoliants on your skin, as this can irritate your skin and make you more prone to milia.
  • Keep your skin clean and dry. This will help to prevent dead skin cells and keratin from building up under your skin.
  • Wear sunscreen when you are outdoors. Sun exposure can damage your skin and make it more likely that you will develop milia.
  • If you are using any medications that are known to increase the risk of milia, talk to your doctor about other options.
  • Exfoliate your skin regularly to remove dead skin cells and prevent them from building up under your skin.
  • Remove your makeup before bed to prevent dirt and oil from clogging your pores.
  • Get enough sleep. Sleep is essential for healthy skin. When you don’t get enough sleep, your skin can become dry and irritated, which can make you more prone to milia.

FAQs

  1. How long does it take to get rid of milia under the eyes? The length of time it takes to get rid of milia under the eyes can vary depending on the treatment method used. Some treatments may take several weeks or months to see results.
  2. Can you pop milia under the eyes? No, it’s not recommended to try and pop milia under the eyes as this can cause scarring and infection.
  3. Is it necessary to treat milia under the eyes? Milia under the eyes are generally harmless and do not require treatment. However, if they are causing cosmetic concerns, a dermatologist can recommend a treatment plan.

Final Takeaway

Milia under the eyes can be frustrating, but with the right treatment plan, they can be effectively treated. It’s important to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your specific case and remembering to be patient and consistent with your treatment plan. Whether you opt for a topical treatment, in-office treatment, or a combination of both, there are options available for getting rid of milia under the eyes. By following the advice and tips outlined in this article, you can achieve smooth and clear skin around your eyes.

11 BEST HAIR BRUSHES FOR THIN HAIR

Whether your hair is straight or curly, preventing needless damage to it is likely your top hair-related worry. Fine hair is especially vulnerable to damage. While sulfate-free shampoos and heat-styling equipment are well-known causes of breakage, poor-quality hair brushes are also to blame. The best brushes for thin hair are kind to the hair, won’t pull on strands or tangles, and aid in distributing the natural oils from your scalp throughout the shaft of the hair.

CROWN AFFAIR THE BRUSH NO. 003

Crown Affair’s The Brush No. 003 is a delight for delicate hair. It is manufactured by hand in Italy with pure boar bristles, which gently work on hair, enveloping every strand in the natural oils of the scalp from root to tip. Every stroke gives the scalp a pleasant massage as well as preventing dry, brittle hair. With each application, those with fine or thinning hair will feel an increase in volume and luster, making it one of the best hair brushes for thin hair.

The flexible, cushioned pad with a breathing hole that holds the boar bristles lessen pressure on the scalp. The ergonomic handle made of natural beechwood offers a comfortable and solid grip. Utilize it just on dry hair to avoid any harm. If you want to detangle and restore shine to your hair, brush it from the scalp to the roots.

BLACK EGG WOODEN BOAR BRISTLE BRUSH

The lightweight beechwood handle of this oval brush is pleasant to hold. The adult boar hair used to manufacture the soft bristles is put through a thorough screening procedure, which leaves the hair silky and full of natural shine. In actuality, this procedure eliminates a significant portion of the oil from those natural bristles, leaving just enough behind to aid in balancing the oil in your own hair and scalp with each brushing. 

Together with a wide-tooth mahogany comb that’s great for detangling and distributing product throughout wet hair, the soft bristles help to gently eliminate frizz. In fact, the company suggests using the comb to untangle and defrizz your hair before using the boar brush on a regular basis if you’re new to utilizing natural brushes. 

TANGLE TEEZER THE ULTIMATE DETANGLER FINE & FRAGILE

Whatever the hair type, wet hair has to be properly cared for, but fine and delicate hair especially needs to be treated gently. If you’re familiar with Tangle Teezer’s Ultimate Detangler, you should know that this model is much softer than the original and is designed for delicate hair.

This oblong brush has flexible, soft bristles despite being made of plastic. They also don’t have any points that might break off and grip your hair. Wet hair is easily detangled by the widely spaced bristles, and the thin handle offers an ergonomic grip. The long and short teeth work in tandem to remove knots and smooth hair, reducing breakage and frizz. There are many more cool colors of this brush, such as Lilac/Mint and Hypnotic Heather.

SISLEY-PARIS THE RADIANCE BRUSH

An excellent paddle brush is a fantastic tool for scalp stimulation and hair smoothing. Soft, supple bristles of the Sisley-Paris Radiance Brush gently work on both types of hair, making it easier to untangle hair and prevent frizz. This works on all hair types, both wet and dry, and with continued application, you should see shinier, more voluminous hair. It seems sense that you would be a little shocked by the sticker price, but the investment is worthwhile. 

DYSON DYSON DESIGNED PADDLE BRUSH

This paddle brush would be a terrific addition to your haircare collection whether you’re seeking a new brush to pair with your Dyson Supersonic hair dryer or if you’re finally saving up for one. Because the flexible bristles are arranged in an oval shape on a padded base, the scalp is not as stressed. When styling, the weighted grip makes the tool seem balanced in the hand. 

This brush is quite robust and mild enough for all hair types. When it’s time for a blowout at home, this brush is ideal since it can withstand temperatures as high as 302°F. We also appreciate that this brush is available in five distinct colors: Prussian blue, black, rosé, fuchsia, and purple.

BELULA BOAR BRISTLE ROUND BRUSH FOR BLOW DRYING SET

For sensitive hair, a circular brush might be problematic, however, this one seems to be soothing. Its nylon and boar blend of bristles is gentle on delicate strands. Because of its size, the 2.7-inch barrel is ideal for blowouts since you don’t have to worry about it being tangled. This round brush distributes the natural oils from your scalp into your hair strands, making your hair seem smooth and shining, in contrast to other brushes with harsher bristles.  

Three crocodile hair clips are provided with this brush to assist divide your hair for effortless style, and a hair cleaner tool makes cleaning the bristles between usage simple.

SHASH BOAR BRISTLE CLASSIC HAIR BRUSH

We chose a brush from Shash, a firm that has been producing boar bristle brushes since 1869 since natural boar bristles work best on hair that needs some TLC. Hundreds of natural bristles on this German-made brush are ready to transfer the natural oils from your scalp through your hair in a gentle and equal manner. 

This brush not only reduces dandruff and other irritations of the scalp, but also encourages healthy hair development. Every time you apply it, it’s like giving your scalp a little exfoliation. When brushing or styling, the ergonomically designed smooth handle feels good in your hand. 

WET BRUSH ORIGINAL DETANGLER

In addition to being excellent for detangling wet hair, the appropriately called Wet Brush is also terrific for removing knots from dry hair. Without worrying about snagging delicate or brittle hair, the IntelliFlex bristles are tucked into a cushioned base that eases tension as it runs through your hair, wet or dry.

For a pleasant detangling experience, the bristles are robust but flexible enough to go through all types of hair. In fact, you’ll need to work 55% less to get your hair silky and have 45% less breakage. Although the fact that it comes in a range of colors is appealing, the performance of this brush is actually what makes it worthwhile. 

AVEDA WOODEN PADDLE BRUSH

The flexible, cushioned base of the Aveda Wooden Paddle Brush eases the strain on your scalp as it works through your hair. This rectangular paddle’s long bristles stimulate and massage the scalp gently to encourage healthy hair growth. Because of their broad spacing, knots in all types of hair may be easily and swiftly removed. While you brush and style your hair, you won’t experience hand tiredness thanks to the long wooden handle’s comfortable grip and the lightweight design of the entire item. Smooth, straight styles can be achieved with this brush rather well.

PAUL MITCHELL PRO TOOLS 413 SCULPTING BRUSH

Paul Mitchell’s compact yet effective fine-hair hair brush is an affordable way to up your hair care game. Its flexible, widely spread bristles softly smooth and untangle hair, whether it’s damp or dry. It’s ideal for adding the final touches to any hairstyle or blow-drying hair. 

To lessen hand strain when brushing and styling, the design is lightweight and thin. It’s ideal for travel as well because of its small size, which makes it fit in most cosmetic bags. For home use, this Paul Mitchell brush should be used in addition to your collection of hair tools rather than as your only choice, but considering the price, it’s an easy choice.

TANGLE TEEZER BRUSH

Any hair type can experience breakage from knots and snarls, but fine hair is particularly vulnerable to their destructive effects. For this reason, it’s critical to invest in a high-quality detangling brush, such as this Tangle Teezer brush that has won several awards. This brush works well on both wet and dry hair because of its memory-flex bristles, which are tough but kind to delicate hair strands. Its design combines long and short teeth, the former for smoothing and the latter for detangling hair. The brush is mild enough, according to the makers, to be used on wigs, weaves, and hair extensions. Overall, this is the best brush for fine thin hair.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

If you know where to search, you may find the best brush for thin hair, which can create volume and make hair care a thousand times simpler and more effective. If you belong to the fine hair family, you are certainly well aware of the advantages and disadvantages that come with this type of hair. It may be styled using a wash-and-go method, making it potentially less upkeep than other hair types. However, you may have limp, oily roots and hair that is too obstinate to curl. The good news is that you don’t need to be an expert to obtain the sort of hairstyle you like; you simply need to know what you’re working with.