Solutions grain milium qui grossit.

What should you do when a milium cyst is growing?

Milium cysts are whitish microcysts. Although benign and harmless, these small bumps can take some time to disappear, and may seemingly enlarge. Learn how to handle a growing milium cyst.

Summary
Published March 21, 2024, updated on March 25, 2024, by Kahina, Scientific Editor — 3 min read

How should one respond when a milium cyst enlarges?

A milium is a whitish to yellowish subcutaneous microcyst. It can occur on the face or even on the genital organs in the case of infants. It is harmless and generally disappears spontaneously without the need for treatment.

It happens that some people notice their milia becoming larger over time, which concerns them. It's important to know that scientific literature on the subject indicates that the average size of a milium is between 1 and 2 mm in diameter, and some can be larger. This depends on the individual.

However, most of the time, a milium retains its size throughout the duration of its presence on the skin. It doesn't really change, unlike an inflammatory pimple for example, which goes through several stages, and this is particularly the case for a boil. The scenario in which a milium enlarges has not been described in the scientific literature.

The best course of action in this situation is therefore to consult a healthcare professional to conduct a diagnosis to confirm whether it is indeed a milium cyst and not another related skin condition. Finally, they will be able to prescribe an appropriate treatment.

Above all, do not attempt to touch it. You risk worsening the situation and causing potential infections. If in any doubt, consult your doctor.

Sources

  • ROSS J. B. & al. Multiple eruptive milia: Report of a case, review of the literature, and a classification. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (1997).

  • BERK D. R. & al. Milia: A review and classification. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2008).

  • BARBAROT S. & al. Les grains de milium de l’enfant. Annales de dermatologie et de vénéréologie (2009).

  • GALLARDO AVILA P. & al. Milia. StatPearls (2023).

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