Milia are tiny, white or yellowish bumps that often appear around the eyes, cheeks, or nose. While harmless, they can be frustrating because they don’t clear on their own and can persist for months or even years.
With professional milia removal, these bumps can be safely and quickly treated, restoring smooth, even skin without scarring or damage. In London, dermatology clinics offer advanced techniques to remove milia in a single session, often with minimal downtime.
What Milia Are
Milia are small, keratin-filled cysts that form just under the surface of the skin. They are not spots or acne and aren’t caused by infection or bacteria.
What milia look like
- Tiny, white or yellow bumps
- Firm to the touch and don’t squeeze out like a spot
- Commonly found around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, and nose
Why they develop and common triggers
Milia form when dead skin cells or keratin become trapped beneath the outer layer of the skin. Triggers can include:
- Use of heavy creams or oils that clog the skin
- Skin damage or irritation
- Healing from burns, rashes, or injuries
- Natural skin turnover changes with age
When to Consider Milia Treatment
While milia are harmless, there are situations where professional removal makes sense.
Cosmetic reasons
Many patients choose removal because milia can be visible and affect confidence, especially when they appear on the face or around the eyes.
When home remedies don’t work
Over-the-counter scrubs, creams, or attempts to squeeze milia won’t remove them and can cause skin damage or infection. Professional treatment is the safest way to clear the bumps.
Medical assessment for persistent or widespread cases
If milia are numerous or repeatedly returning, a dermatologist can assess for underlying triggers such as skin conditions or product reactions and recommend tailored treatment or skincare adjustments.
Professional Milia Removal Options
Professional removal is quick, safe, and designed to clear the skin without causing trauma or scarring.
Manual extraction by a specialist
This is the most common and effective method.
- The area is cleansed, and a sterile needle or fine blade is used to create a tiny opening in the skin.
- The trapped keratin is gently extracted without damaging the surrounding tissue.
- Results are immediate, and the bump usually does not return in the same spot.
Electrocautery or laser techniques
For stubborn or multiple milia, clinics may use:
- Electrocautery: A small heated probe to open the skin and extract the milia.
- Laser removal: A precise laser beam to break through the skin’s surface and release the trapped keratin.
These advanced methods are ideal for delicate areas, such as around the eyes, where precision is essential.
Why DIY removal is unsafe
Attempting to squeeze or pick at milia at home can:
- Damage the skin
- Lead to scarring or hyperpigmentation
- Cause infection
Professional treatment avoids these risks and ensures a clean, safe result.
Treatment Process and Recovery
Professional milia removal is quick, virtually painless, and requires little to no downtime.
What to expect during the appointment
- The area is cleansed thoroughly.
- A sterile tool or device is used to remove the milia with minimal disruption to the skin.
- For multiple milia, the process may take 20–30 minutes.
Aftercare for smooth, clear skin
- Keep the area clean and avoid makeup for 24 hours.
- Use a gentle cleanser and non-comedogenic moisturiser.
- Apply SPF daily to protect the skin as it heals.
Healing timeline and scarring risk
- Minor redness usually fades within 24–48 hours.
- Treated areas typically heal without scarring when performed by a trained specialist.
- Results are immediate, with clear, smoother skin.
Cost of Milia Removal in London
The price of milia removal depends on the number of bumps, their location, and the technique used. Below is a typical cost guide:
| Service | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Single milia removal | £80 – £150 |
| Multiple milia removal (up to 10) | £150 – £300 |
| Advanced methods (electrocautery or laser) | £200 – £400 |
Factors affecting cost
- Number of milia: Multiple extractions take longer and cost more.
- Area treated: Around the eyes often requires more precision.
- Clinic location: Central London clinics usually charge toward the higher end of the range.
