How to prevent small white Cysts on the skin of children By Dr. Navnit Haror, Founder & Director of Derma Miracle Clinic
Milia is the term used to denote several small white cysts on the skin of infants and children-common among the age group of newborn babies to 10 years old-but it can happen to anyone-one can spot them on the chin, around the nose and the nearby area, cheeks. Milia occurs when dead skin cells from the epidermis cannot release themselves from the small pockets on the skin’s surface rather than falling off. This process causes the tiny, white coloured, pearl-like bumps on the skin of the baby. No, they are not baby acne- that is completely distinctive-they are completely a natural phenomenon – they usually fade away on their own-in a period of 2-3 months. If they exceed the time period-we advise to take your child to the doctor- for prescription of a cream or an ointment. The treatment of this kind of problem is not yet established proficiently as it heals spontaneously on its own and does not jeopardize the health. There are three types of milia:
- Primary milia– this can affect anyone of any age group-near the cheek, nose & chin.
- Neonatal: as the name suggests- this is observed in newborns generally as birthmarks on the scalp, upper body, inside the mouth, nose, chin etc. They have a definite size and are not accompanied by redness.
- Traumatic/secondary milia: these result when damage has been already done to the skin-usually in the forms of blisters, burns or because of allergies. However, it’s necessary to follow a skincare routine which includes the below-mentioned steps:
- Wash the affected skin area with a cleanser and lukewarm water. Don’t rub hard on the skin, hence try patting with a towel- and don’t scrape as it will increase the infection rate by causing redness and swelling. Moisturize with an oil free and non-perfumed moisturizer.
- To avoid secondary milia- avoid exposure to the sun and use sunscreen.
- Use topical retinoids enriched with vitamin A.
- Exfoliate regularly containing salicylic acid .
- Extracts of rose, cinnamon and honey are known to replenish skin and rejuvenate it.
- Steam to open the pores.
- Use gentle low foaming deep cleansers that won’t cause itchiness or make the skin dry.
- Use L-ascorbic acid- boosts skin cell renewal and prevents dead skin cells and keratin from getting trapped under your skin.
- Try oils like castor oil, oatmeal scrubs, honey scrubs.
- Clean, exfoliate, moisturize
