Milia vs. Skin Tags: What’s the Difference?

Noticing tiny bumps or fleshy growths on your skin can be concerning, especially when they appear unexpectedly. Many people mistake milia for skin tags or vice versa, leading to confusion about how to treat them. The good news is that both conditions are harmless, though professional care may be required for removal.

“Milia and skin tags may look similar, but their causes and treatments differ. Understanding their differences can help you choose the right approach,”

says Dr. Swetha P., a highly regarded dermatologist in Indiranagar, Bangalore.

At Dr. Swetha’s Cosmoderm Centre, she offers cutting-edge treatments for Milia, skin tags, and other dermatological concerns, focusing on individualized solutions for her patients.

Have you noticed small, stubborn white bumps on your face? These may not be acne but something entirely different.

Milia are small, white or yellowish cysts that form when keratin is trapped under the skin. These tiny bumps are often mistaken for whiteheads, but they do not contain pus and cannot be popped like acne. Unlike skin tags, Milia are firm and do not dangle from the skin.

Causes of Milia

• Blocked sweat ducts or hair follicles
• Skin trauma or burns
• Use of heavy skincare products
• Genetic predisposition

Where Milia Typically Appear

Milia commonly appears on the face, especially around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead. They can also develop on the chest and arms, particularly in newborns.

Where Skin Tags Typically Appear

• Neck
• Underarms
• Eyelids
• Groin
• Under the breasts

Confused about whether you have Milia or skin tags? Knowing their differences can help you choose the right treatment.

Milia and skin tags may seem similar at first glance, but their distinct characteristics set them apart. Below is a detailed comparison to help you identify them accurately:

Frustrated by stubborn Milia that won’t go away? There are effective treatments available to help you clear them.

Milia removal requires a combination of professional treatments and preventive skin care. Since Milia does not go away on their own, especially in adults, dermatological intervention is often necessary.

Professional Treatments for Milia

• Extraction– A dermatologist carefully removes Milia using a sterile needle or a small incision, ensuring minimal scarring.
• Chemical Peels– AHA or BHA peels help exfoliate the top layer of the skin, gradually reducing the appearance of Milia.
• Laser Therapy– Non-invasive laser treatments target and break down Milia without harming the surrounding skin.
• Microdermabrasion– A gentle exfoliation method that removes dead skin cells and prevents keratin buildup.
• Topical Retinoids– Prescription-strength retinoids accelerate skin turnover, reducing existing Milia and preventing new ones from forming.

Preventive Skincare for Milia

• Use gentle exfoliants with AHA or BHA to prevent clogged pores.
• Choose non-comedogenic skincare products to avoid trapping keratin under the skin.
• Apply lightweight moisturizers instead of heavy creams that can contribute to pore congestion.
• Protect your skin with sunscreen to prevent sun damage, which can worsen Milia formation.

Looking for ways to remove skin tags safely? Let’s explore several simple and effective treatment options.

Skin tags can be safely removed using professional treatments that minimize discomfort and scarring.

Professional Treatments for Skin Tags

• Cryotherapy– Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the skin tag, causing it to fall off within days.
• Electrocautery– The tag is burned off using a controlled electric current, sealing the skin to prevent bleeding.
• Surgical Removal– A dermatologist carefully cuts off the skin tag using sterile surgical tools, often under local anesthesia.
• Ligation– A small surgical thread is tied around the base of the skin tag, cutting off the blood supply until it naturally detaches.

Preventive Skincare for Skin Tags

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce friction in skin folds.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent unnecessary rubbing.
• Keep skin clean and dry, especially in areas prone to friction.
• Use gentle skincare products to avoid irritation and inflammation.

Not sure when to seek medical help for your skin condition? Some warning signs indicate it’s time to consult a professional.

Milia and skin tags are common and harmless skin conditions that can cause cosmetic concerns. While Milia requires exfoliation and professional extraction, skin tags can be easily removed through simple medical procedures. Whether dealing with stubborn Milia or annoying skin tags, seeking professional care from a seasoned skin specialist in Indiranagar, Bangalore, like Dr. Swetha P, ensures safe and effective treatment.