Are you noticing small, white bumps on your newborn’s delicate skin? There’s no need to worry. You are likely dealing with milia, a common skin condition that affects about 40% to 50% of newborns in the United States. Milia is frequently confused with whiteheads, but it is not a type of acne. It is caused by old skin cells trapped beneath the skin’s surface, forming tiny cysts.
The good news is that milia is harmless, and these small bumps typically disappear on their own after a few weeks. Avoid the urge to squeeze them like a pimple or scratch them, as this can irritate your baby’s skin.
Adults can have milia too, and it usually lasts for a few weeks to a couple of months before clearing up on its own. You can reduce the possibility of developing milia later in life through regular exfoliation - and remember to wear sunscreen, especially after exfoliating.
If you decide you really want to get rid of your milia, reach out to your dermatologist - they can help remove it!