Overview
About milia
Milia are tiny, firm cysts filled with keratin — the protein that makes up the outer layer of the skin. They sit just beneath the surface and most often appear as small white or pale-yellow bumps around the eyes, on the cheeks and across the nose.
They are sometimes mistaken for whiteheads, but they cannot be popped or extracted at home. Trying to do so usually irritates the skin without removing the underlying cyst.
Causes
Why milia appear
Milia form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. They are common in adults and newborns and can appear after sun damage, certain skincare products, prolonged use of heavy creams, or simply with age.
Some people are more prone to them than others, and they can develop in clusters that linger for months or years without clearing on their own.
Milia sit beneath the skin, which is why squeezing them never works — only treatment that targets the cyst itself will clear them properly.
The treatment
How cryotherapy works
A short, precise blast of ultra-cold gas is applied to each milium. The freeze breaks down the cyst beneath the surface so the keratin is gradually reabsorbed and the bump fades away.
Most milia clear after a single session. Larger or older cysts sometimes need a second treatment, spaced two to three weeks apart.
Your visit
What to expect
During treatment
You will feel a brief tingling or cool sensation as the freeze is applied. The treatment is quick and gentle enough to be used near the eyes.
In the days that follow
The treated area may look slightly pink for a day or two. There is no scab and no need to cover the area — normal skincare and makeup can be resumed within twenty-four hours.
Over the next few weeks
The milium gradually softens and breaks down, fading over two to four weeks. We will arrange a brief review where helpful to confirm complete clearance.
Common questions
Frequently asked
Can milia be safely treated near the eyes?
Yes. Cryotherapy is one of the safest options for milia in delicate areas — the freeze is precise enough to treat the cyst without affecting the surrounding skin.
Why can't I just squeeze them out?
Milia sit beneath the skin's surface and have no opening to the outside, unlike whiteheads. Squeezing them irritates the skin without removing the cyst, and often leads to redness or a small mark.
Will my milia come back?
Treated milia will not return in the same place. Some people are prone to forming new ones, in which case we can advise on skincare and SPF habits that reduce the chance of recurrence.
Will my skincare routine need to change?
Sometimes. Heavy occlusive creams and products with mineral oils can encourage new milia to form. We will offer guidance at your consultation if relevant.
Is cryotherapy suitable for sensitive or reactive skin?
Yes — milia treatment is gentle and well-tolerated, even on sensitive complexions. We adjust the freeze to suit your skin and pace the session carefully.
