Milia, commonly referred to as milk spots, are small, white or yellowish cysts that appear under the skin, particularly around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. These tiny bumps are made of keratin, a protein found in hair, skin, and nails. Milia are not harmful, but many people find them cosmetically undesirable. They typically appear when dead skin cells get trapped beneath the skin’s surface, forming tiny cysts.
While medical treatments are available to remove milia, natural remedies are often a safer, gentler option, especially when dealing with the delicate skin under the eyes. This article will discuss seven effective natural remedies for treating milia under the eyes. We will explore how each remedy works, its benefits, and how to use it properly.
What is Milia?
Before delving into remedies, it’s important to understand what milia are and why they form. Milia are most common in newborns, but they can also affect children and adults. In adults, milia can appear due to skin damage, excessive sun exposure, or the use of heavy creams that clog pores.
Milia are different from acne because they don’t form in the same way. They aren’t caused by bacteria or hormones but by keratin trapped under the skin. Typically, milia go away on their own, but in some cases, they may persist for months or even years. For those who want to speed up the process or prevent further milia, natural remedies offer a non-invasive and safe alternative.
1. Exfoliation with Honey and Sugar Scrub
Why It Works
Exfoliation is one of the key treatments for removing milia. Gently exfoliating the skin removes dead skin cells and helps prevent them from clogging pores. Honey, known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, makes an excellent base for an exfoliating scrub. When combined with sugar, honey becomes a mild, natural exfoliant that can help break down the milia under the eyes without damaging the skin.
How to Use It
- Mix one tablespoon of raw honey with one tablespoon of fine sugar.
- Apply the mixture to the area under your eyes.
- Gently massage in circular motions for about two minutes. Be cautious not to press too hard, as the skin around the eyes is delicate.
- Rinse with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this process two to three times per week for the best results.
Benefits
- Gently removes dead skin cells.
- Helps to clear trapped keratin.
- Improves skin texture and hydration due to honey’s moisturizing properties.
Caution
Always use a fine sugar granule to avoid skin irritation. Coarse sugar can cause micro-tears on the skin, especially in delicate areas such as under the eyes.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar and Water Solution
Why It Works
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is well-known for its antibacterial and astringent properties, which can help balance the skin’s pH and prevent further clogging of pores. Additionally, its mild acidic nature can help in the gentle exfoliation of the skin, helping to dissolve and remove the keratin buildup that causes milia.
How to Use It
- Dilute one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water.
- Soak a cotton ball in the solution and gently dab it onto the area where milia have formed.
- Leave it on for about 20 minutes, then rinse with cool water.
- You can use this remedy once a day until you notice improvement.
Benefits
- Regulates the skin’s pH balance.
- Acts as a mild exfoliant.
- Has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling around the milia.
Caution
Always dilute ACV before applying it to your skin, as its acidic nature can cause irritation or dryness, especially on sensitive areas like under the eyes. Also, perform a patch test on another area of your skin before use.
3. Castor Oil for Moisturizing
Why It Works
Castor oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of skin conditions. It is known for its antibacterial properties and ability to deeply hydrate the skin. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing, making it an ideal remedy for treating milia under the eyes.
How to Use It
- Clean the area around your eyes with a gentle cleanser.
- Apply a small amount of pure, cold-pressed castor oil directly to the milia using a cotton swab.
- Leave it on overnight.
- Rinse it off in the morning with warm water.
- Use this remedy daily for best results.
Benefits
- Deeply moisturizes the skin.
- Helps to break down keratin deposits.
- Reduces inflammation and prevents the formation of new milia.
Caution
Avoid getting castor oil into your eyes. Always apply it with care and in a small amount to prevent any potential irritation.
See also: What Is The Best Treatment For Fluid Under Eyes?
4. Tea Tree Oil for Antimicrobial Action
Why It Works
Tea tree oil is a powerful essential oil known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help treat milia by reducing the likelihood of infection and soothing the skin. Additionally, tea tree oil helps balance the skin’s oil production, preventing further clogging of pores.
How to Use It
- Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil.
- Apply the mixture to the milia using a cotton ball.
- Leave it on overnight and rinse it off the next morning with warm water.
- Repeat this treatment daily until the milia begin to disappear.
Benefits
- Fights bacteria and fungi on the skin.
- Reduces inflammation.
- Regulates oil production, which can help prevent further milia formation.
Caution
Never apply tea tree oil directly to the skin without diluting it, as it can cause irritation or dryness, especially in sensitive areas like under the eyes. A patch test is recommended before applying it near the eyes.
5. Steam Treatment for Deep Cleansing
Why It Works
Steam therapy is an excellent method for opening up the pores and softening the skin, allowing trapped keratin to release naturally. This can help treat existing milia and prevent new ones from forming. Steaming also promotes circulation and increases perspiration, which aids in flushing out toxins from the skin.
How to Use It
- Boil a pot of water and pour it into a bowl.
- Place your face over the bowl, keeping a safe distance to avoid burns, and drape a towel over your head to trap the steam.
- Allow the steam to work for about 5-10 minutes.
- Afterward, gently pat your skin dry and apply a natural moisturizer like aloe vera or jojoba oil.
Benefits
- Opens up pores, making it easier to remove trapped keratin.
- Promotes circulation.
- Cleanses the skin and flushes out impurities.
Caution
Be careful not to expose your skin to steam for too long or too closely, as excessive heat can irritate the skin. Avoid this treatment if you have conditions like rosacea, which can be aggravated by heat.
6. Aloe Vera Gel for Soothing and Healing
Why It Works
Aloe vera is a natural remedy known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. It is an excellent choice for treating milia under the eyes, as it hydrates the skin without clogging pores. Aloe vera contains enzymes that help gently exfoliate the skin, preventing the buildup of dead skin cells and keratin.
How to Use It
- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from an aloe leaf or use a store-bought, 100% pure aloe vera gel.
- Apply a small amount of the gel to the area under your eyes.
- Gently massage it into the skin and leave it on overnight.
- Rinse your face with lukewarm water in the morning.
- Use this treatment daily for the best results.
Benefits
- Moisturizes the skin without clogging pores.
- Reduces inflammation and soothes irritated skin.
- Promotes the healing of milia and prevents further formation.
Caution
Always use pure, organic aloe vera gel without any added chemicals or fragrances, as these can irritate sensitive skin.
7. Rose Water for Soothing Hydration
Why It Works
Rose water is a natural astringent that helps to tighten the skin, reduce inflammation, and balance oil production. Its cooling and soothing properties make it ideal for treating sensitive areas like under the eyes, where milia are common. Rose water also helps to hydrate the skin, preventing excessive dryness, which can contribute to milia formation.
How to Use It
- Use a cotton ball to apply pure rose water to the area under your eyes.
- Allow it to air dry or leave it on overnight.
- You can use this remedy twice daily—once in the morning and once at night.
Benefits
- Hydrates the skin without clogging pores.
- Tightens and tones the skin.
- Reduces inflammation and prevents further milia formation.
Caution
Ensure that the rose water you use is 100% pure and free from added alcohol or chemicals, as these can dry out or irritate the skin.
Additional Tips for Preventing Milia
In addition to the remedies mentioned above, there are a few other tips you can follow to prevent milia under your eyes:
Avoid heavy creams: Use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers around the eyes to prevent clogging pores.
Use sunscreen: Protect your skin from sun damage, which can exacerbate milia.
Keep your skin clean: Regularly cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Conclusion
Milia under the eyes may not be harmful, but they can be a cosmetic concern for many. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help you manage and treat milia effectively. By using exfoliating scrubs, moisturizing oils, and soothing gels, you can reduce the appearance of these cysts and prevent future occurrences. Remember to always be gentle with the delicate skin under your eyes and consult a dermatologist if the milia persist or worsen.
Incorporating these seven natural remedies into your skincare routine can help you achieve smoother, healthier skin around your eyes, free from milia.
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