How to Get Rid of Milia Naturally: Safe and Effective Remedies
Milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that often appear on the face, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. While they are harmless, milia can be frustrating because they sometimes linger for months, or even years - before disappearing on their own.
Conventional treatments like chemical peels, topical retinoids, or professional extraction are available, but they can be harsh on the skin and may lead to irritation or scarring. Fortunately, there are natural remedies for milia that are gentle, safe, and effective. In this guide, we’ll explore:
What is milia?
Milia, often called “milk spots,” are tiny cysts filled with keratin - a protein that makes up your hair, skin, and nails. They form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the surface of the skin. Unlike pimples or blackheads, milia cannot be squeezed or popped, and they typically don’t cause pain.
Milia can appear in clusters, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and nose, but they may also show up on other parts of the body. While they are harmless, milia can be frustrating due to their appearance. Using natural remedies can help speed up their removal safely.

What causes milia?
Milia can develop for different reasons, and the causes vary between infants and adults. In adults, milia form when dead skin cells become trapped beneath the surface of the skin instead of shedding naturally. This leads to the appearance of tiny, white, cyst-like bumps.
Common causes of milia in adults include:
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Skin damage from rashes, burns, blisters, or other injuries that disrupt the skin’s natural healing process
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Sun damage, which can thicken the outer layer of skin and make it harder for dead skin cells to shed properly
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Reactions to harsh skincare products, especially those that clog pores or irritate the skin
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Aging, as skin cell turnover naturally slows down over time, increasing the likelihood of trapped keratin
Some people are more prone to milia, but they can affect adults of all ages, skin types, and ethnicities. While adult milia will usually resolve over time, there are ways to naturally speed up the process.
How to get rid of Milia Naturally
Important: Never try to squeeze, scratch, or pick at milia. This can cause irritation, infection, and scarring. Instead, try these safe and natural remedies:
1. Use a natural exfoliating cleanser
A gentle exfoliating cleanser helps remove dead skin cells, excess oils, and bacteria that contribute to milia formation. Look for natural soaps containing aloe vera and tea tree oil. Aloe vera is rich in antioxidants and has healing properties, while tea tree oil has antibacterial qualities that cleanse the skin and prevent infections.
Our organic Tea Tree soap is safe to use close to the eyes but do be careful around this sensitive area.
2. Use an Antibacterial Moisturiser
Even while treating milia, your skin needs hydration. Opt for a light, antibacterial moisturiser containing natural ingredients like tea tree oil. Apply sparingly after cleansing. This keeps your skin healthy and supports the natural removal process.
3. Apply Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil is one of the most effective natural remedies for milia. Its antibacterial properties help cleanse the area, and it can gently dissolve the trapped keratin. Apply once daily at night using a cotton swab. Dab each milia spot carefully with a tiny amount of oil - overuse can cause irritation.
Tips to Prevent Milia
Prevention is key. Implementing a gentle, consistent skincare routine can reduce the likelihood of developing milia:
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Remove makeup thoroughly: Avoid going to bed with makeup on, especially around the eyes.
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Use gentle, natural products: Harsh chemicals or heavy creams can block pores.
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Exfoliate regularly: Use a gentle, natural exfoliator to remove dead skin cells without irritation.
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Protect your skin from the sun: Sun damage increases the risk of milia, so wear a natural sunscreen whenever you spend extended time outdoors.
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Maintain a daily routine: Consistently using tea tree-based cleansers and moisturisers keeps your skin clear and milia-free.
Conclusion
Milia may be stubborn, but with patience and natural care, you can encourage them to clear up safely. Gentle cleansing, proper moisturisation, and targeted use of tea tree oil are effective ways to get rid of milia without harsh chemicals or professional treatments. By incorporating these natural remedies into your daily skincare routine, you can maintain healthy, smooth, and milia-free skin.
Frequently Asked Questions About Milia
Are milia dangerous?
No, milia are completely harmless. They are non-cancerous cysts filled with keratin and do not pose any health risk. Most people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons rather than medical necessity.
Can I pop or squeeze milia?
No. Milia should never be popped or squeezed. Unlike pimples, they are trapped beneath the skin and forcing them out can cause irritation, infection, or scarring - especially around delicate areas like the eyes.
How long do milia last?
Milia can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, and in some cases even years. With gentle exfoliation and natural remedies, many people notice improvement much sooner.
Do natural remedies really work for milia?
Yes. Natural remedies that support healthy skin turnover - such as gentle exfoliation, proper moisturising, and antibacterial ingredients like tea tree oil - can help milia clear more quickly without damaging the skin.
Is tea tree oil safe to use near the eyes?
Tea tree oil should always be used carefully around the eyes. Applied sparingly with a cotton swab, it can be effective. Avoid direct contact with the eyes and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Can milia come back after they clear?
Yes, milia can return if the underlying causes remain - such as clogged pores, heavy skincare products, sun damage, or lack of exfoliation. Maintaining a gentle, consistent skincare routine helps prevent recurrence.
Who is more prone to developing milia?
Anyone can develop milia, but they are more common in people with dry skin, sun-damaged skin, or those who use heavy or pore-clogging skincare products. Aging skin is also more prone due to slower cell turnover.
Ready to support clearer, healthier skin - naturally? ✨
Milia don’t need harsh chemicals or aggressive treatments. By choosing gentle, organic skincare made with powerful natural ingredients like tea tree oil and aloe vera, you can support your skin’s natural renewal process without irritation.
👉 Shop our Milia Natural Remedy Pack today
Sources:
- Skin Sight. https://skinsight.com/skin-conditions/milia/
- Patient. https://patient.info/skin-conditions/milia-leaflet
Updated: February 9, 2026
Comments
Hi Majualy,
If you click on the picture of the ‘MIlia/Milk Spots Sample Pack’ you will be taken directly to the sample pack. I will also paste a link below.
Dawn x
https://www.newdawnorganicskinandhaircare.co.uk/collections/concerns/products/milia-milk-spots-natural-remedyHow can I get the set of tea tree products to purchase

