What Causes Milia in Newborns and how to prevent it?
Is your baby sporting tiny white bumps on their face? These are likely milia, also known as milk spots. They’re common and harmless, and usually resolve on their own.
What Are Milia?
Noticing tiny white bumps on your newborn’s face? These bumps are called milia and are nothing to worry about. Often mistaken for whiteheads, milia are benign and very common. Approximately 50% of newborns develop these spots, typically on the upper cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead.
While some babies have just a few, others might have many. Milia generally appear a day or two after birth, though in premature babies, they might not surface for several days or weeks. Although it might be concerning to see these bumps on your baby’s face, they will disappear without any treatment within two to three weeks. Unlike baby acne, milia do not cause inflammation or swelling.
You might also notice similar bumps on your baby’s gums or the roof of their mouth, known as Epstein pearls. These are also harmless.
Related: What Causes Baby Acne?
What Causes Milia?
Newborn skin is still learning to shed dead skin cells effectively. Milia form when dead skin cells become trapped in tiny pockets near the skin’s surface. Unlike baby acne, which is influenced by maternal hormones, milia are not hormone-related.
How Can I Help Clear Up Milia?
No special measures are needed to clear up milia. These bumps will typically disappear within the first few weeks of life, although they might last a month or two in some cases. Meanwhile, follow these tips to care for your baby’s skin:
- Avoid creams or ointments: These can irritate your baby’s delicate skin and won’t help with milia.
- Don’t scrub the skin: Scrubbing can cause irritation.
- Don’t squeeze the bumps: This can lead to scarring.
- Be patient: Your baby’s smooth complexion will return soon.
If the milia persists for several months, consult your baby’s healthcare provider.
Can You Prevent Milia?
Most cases of milia in babies cannot be prevented. However, to reduce the risk of new bumps forming after the existing ones have cleared, you can:
- Clean your baby’s skin with warm water or a very mild, baby-safe cleanser.
- Gently pat the skin dry.
- Avoid using creams or oils unless prescribed by a doctor.
Does Having Milia Mean My Baby Will Develop Acne Later?
No, there is no connection between milia and acne. Even if you or your partner had acne during your teenage or adult years, it does not necessarily mean your child will have acne during puberty.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your baby’s skin remains healthy and free of milia without unnecessary interventions.
Also read: How To Soothe Your Gassy Baby: Tips And Tricks For Relieving Baby Gas?
