What is Milia Removal?
Milia removal is a cosmetic procedure designed to eliminate small, white bumps that commonly appear on the face. These bumps, known as milia, form when dead skin cells get trapped under the skin’s surface, creating tiny cysts. Milia are harmless but can be bothersome, and removal is a quick and effective way to achieve smoother, clearer skin.
How Does Milia Removal Work?
Milia removal involves using a fine, sterile needle or lancet to create a tiny opening in the skin, allowing the trapped keratin to be extracted. This procedure is usually performed by a dermatologist or licensed skincare professional to ensure safety and prevent scarring. The treatment is relatively quick, with minimal discomfort and immediate results.
How Do I Prepare for Milia Removal?

To prepare for milia removal, it’s important to keep your skin clean and avoid using harsh skincare products, such as those that contain retinol, in the days leading up to the procedure. Refrain from exfoliating or picking at the milia to prevent irritation, scarring, or infection. Your skincare professional may provide additional instructions based on your skin type and the extent of milia.
What Should I Expect from Milia Removal?
During milia removal, you can expect a simple, minimally invasive procedure that typically takes only a few minutes. The area may be numbed with a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort. After the treatment, your skin may appear slightly red, but this usually subsides within a few days, revealing a smoother complexion.
What Should I Expect After Milia Removal?

After milia removal, you may experience slight redness or tenderness in the treated area, but these effects typically fade within a day or two. It’s important to keep the area clean and avoid heavy makeup or skincare products until fully healed. Your skin should look clearer, and the milia should be completely gone, leaving you with a more even texture.
Can I Remove Milia at Home?
While it may be tempting to remove milia at home, it’s not recommended as improper techniques can lead to scarring, infection, or further skin irritation. Professional milia removal ensures that the procedure is done safely and effectively, minimizing any risk of complications and ensuring optimal results.
Milia Removal FAQs
Who performs milia removal?All three of our providers, Dr. Coyne, Dr. Livingood, and Saman Shahid, PA-C, perform milia removals! They have been thoroughly trained to extract milia and have done this procedure on countless patients. How painful is milia removal?Milia removal is generally a quick and minimally painful procedure. Patients may experience slight discomfort or a pinching sensation, but this is usually brief. How much does milia removal cost?Milia removals start at $100 and go upwards depending on the number of lesions removed. However, we evaluate these lesions in-person first to confirm that they are milia and not another lesion of concern before moving forward with a procedure. Price quoting will be discussed in-depth at the visit. What to do after milia removal?After milia removal, it’s important to keep the area clean with gentle soap and avoid touching or picking at the removed sites to prevent infection. Applying a gentle moisturizer once or twice a day can help soothe the skin. What is milia removal?Milia removal involves the extraction of small, white cysts that form when keratin becomes trapped under the skin. This procedure is performed using sterile instruments such as a needle and/or comedonal extractor. Will insurance cover milia removal?No. Unfortunately, this procedure is considered cosmetic as these lesions are not harmful to your overall health. What are the best ways to remove milia?The most effective ways to remove milia include professional extraction by a dermatologist or using topical treatments that promote exfoliation, such as retinols or salicylic acid. At-home remedies are generally less effective. Are there risks with milia removal?While milia removal is considered safe, there are minor risks such as infection, scarring, or irritation. Following post-procedure care recommendations can minimize these risks. How long does it take to see results from milia removal?Results from milia removal are typically immediate, as the cysts are physically extracted. Any redness or swelling usually subsides within a few days. How can I prevent milia?Preventing milia involves maintaining a consistent skincare routine that includes regular exfoliation and avoiding heavy, pore-clogging products, particularly around the eyes. Daily sun protection is also crucial to keeping skin healthy! |
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re ready to get rid of unwanted milia and achieve smoother, clearer skin, schedule an appointment with a skincare professional today. Our experts are trained in safe and effective milia removal techniques and are here to help you achieve your skincare goals with confidence. To get in touch with us, please fill out an online contact form.