Milium

Milium: Mysterious Whiteheads

Milium, also known as whiteheads, is a dermatological condition characterized by the appearance of small whiteheads on the skin. These small cysts are usually 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter and are most often found on the face, especially in the cheeks and eyelids.

The name "milium" comes from the Latin word "milium", which means "millet" or "millet grain". It reflects the appearance of these blackheads, which resemble small white grains. Milia are formed as a result of stagnation of keratin, a protein substance that is usually present in the skin.

The causes of milia are not always clear. However, it is believed that they may be associated with certain sebaceous gland dysfunctions or skin lesions. Milia are most common in newborns and infants, but can also appear in adults. People with oily or acne-prone skin often experience milia because the sebaceous glands work more intensely in such cases.

Milia usually does not cause physical or medical problems and is rarely a health threat. However, they can be cosmetically unpleasant and cause discomfort. Many people seek to get rid of milia because of their appearance. It is important to understand that attempting to remove milia on your own can lead to infection or leave scarring, so it is recommended to see a dermatologist for advice and professional removal.

In clinical practice, various methods may be used to remove milia, including mechanical removal using special instruments or procedures such as cryotherapy (freezing) or electrocoagulation (electrical current). The choice of method depends on the individual characteristics of the patient and the doctor’s opinion.

Besides professional removal, there are some precautions you can take to prevent new milia from forming or reduce their number. Regular skin care, including cleansing and moisturizing, can help maintain healthy skin and minimize the risk of milia.

In conclusion, milia, or whiteheads, are a dermatological condition characterized by the appearance of small whiteheads on the skin. They are most often found on the face and may be associated with sebaceous gland dysfunction or skin lesions. Milia usually do not cause health problems, but can be cosmetically unpleasant. It is recommended to remove milia under the guidance of a dermatologist to avoid complications. In addition to professional removal, regular skin care can help prevent new milia from forming.

I hope this article helped you gain information about milia and their characteristics. If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask them!

_Milium_ are small and whitish skin nodules, consisting of keratinized epithelium, located singly or in small groups. Such nodules are most often localized on the nose, cheeks, upper lip, chest, back, face, scalp, less often on the palms, fingers, soles, and external genitalia. On the face, milia seem to give the impression that the skin has a millet-white coating.