Milium

I. Definition:
Milia are harmless, tiny, white, cysts near the surface of the skin.  Milia are most commonly seen on the face especially around the eyes.


II. Causes:
* The cause is unknown.

* About half of normal infants have milia on the skin.

* Milia sometimes occur when the skin heals after an injury.


III. Treatment:
* Milia are not harmful and do not need treatment.

* If the Milia become annoying they can be lanced with a surgical blade and the material can be extracted. 

* Milia have no opening on the surface and cannot be expressed like blackheads unless the skin is first pierced with a needle or scapel blade.

* Treatment of Milium is considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance.