‘What Skincare Should I Avoid to Prevent Milia?’ An Expert Answers
Image – Ohlamourstudio/Stocksy
Dr Sonia Khorana is a GP with a special interest in dermatology and Live That Glow’s own skincare agony aunt. She is passionate about helping people feel confident in their own skin. In this month’s article, she advises on the skincare ingredients you should avoid to prevent getting milia.
I have generally clear skin but I’ve found that I get lots of milia around my eyes. Are they being caused by a skincare ingredient I’m using?
Dr Sonia says:
Milia commonly appear around the eyes, cheeks, and nose, and while they aren’t harmful, they can be frustrating to deal with. Certain skincare ingredients and practices can contribute to the formation of milia, especially if they cause clogged pores or a buildup of dead skin cells.
Occlusive ingredients to watch out for:
- Mineral oil
- Lanolin
- Petrolatum (petroleum jelly)
- Beeswax
- Coconut oil (especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin)
Secondary milia happens when something clogs the ducts leading to the skin surface. This is usually caused by some kind of skin trauma or infection, (such as laser treatments, chemical peels, and herpes), or contributing lifestyle factors, including smoking, poor personal hygiene, and long-term steroid use.
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