Milia are tiny cysts filled with keratin—a protein found naturally in the skin. They typically appear as small, white or flesh-toned bumps on the face, especially around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. Unlike pimples or blackheads, milia don’t form from oil or bacteria and can’t be squeezed out with traditional acne treatments. In fact, trying to pop or pick them at home can lead to skin damage and scarring.
There are different types of milia, but the most common are the following.
Primary milia which occur when dead skin becomes trapped beneath the surface.
Secondary milia which develop after trauma to the skin such as burns, rashes, or overly aggressive treatments.
Milia in adults which can result from heavy skincare products, excessive sun damage, or underlying skin conditions.
They’re common in all ages and skin types, but persistent milia often require professional intervention to treat effectively and safely.
How Are Milia Treated at APT Medical Aesthetics
Because milia do not resolve on their own and cannot be extracted like typical blemishes, professional treatment is often the most effective solution. At our Oakville medical spa, we offer safe and precise milia removal procedures tailored to your skin’s needs.
Here’s how we approach milia treatment at APT Medical Aesthetics.
Comprehensive Skin Assessment
Every treatment starts with a skin consultation to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin concerns. We’ll examine your skin’s health, review your skincare routine, and discuss any underlying factors like sun exposure, product usage, or previous treatments.
Manual Extraction with Sterile Techniques
Using a sterile lancet and medical-grade tools, we gently unroof and extract the milia without damaging the surrounding skin. This technique is done with precision by our trained professionals to minimize trauma and prevent scarring.
Exfoliating and Resurfacing Treatments
Depending on your skin type and goals, we may recommend gentle exfoliating treatments like a Hydrafacial, chemical peel, or clear and brilliant laser session to encourage better cell turnover and prevent future milia formation.
Post-Treatment Skincare and Education
After extraction, we guide you on how to maintain your results with medical-grade skincare. Products containing ingredients like retinol, salicylic acid, and niacinamide can help regulate cell renewal and prevent buildup of dead skin cells.
A patient recently came to our Oakville clinic after struggling with milia for over a year. She had tried multiple over-the-counter exfoliants and even considered switching her entire skincare routine. Her primary concern wasn’t just the bumps—it was the dullness and congestion she felt were affecting her confidence.
After an in-depth consultation, we performed a combination of manual extraction, a customized Hydrafacial treatment, and a retinol-based skincare regimen tailored to her skin type. Within a few weeks, not only had the milia cleared, but her skin also appeared more even-toned, refreshed, and smooth. She described it as “the first time her skin felt truly healthy in years.”
Top Ingredients That Help Prevent Milia Buildup
In addition to professional treatment, incorporating the right ingredients into your daily skincare routine can help prevent future milia from forming. Here are five powerhouse ingredients we often recommend.
Retinol – Encourages faster cell turnover and prevents keratin buildup
Salicylic Acid – A beta hydroxy acid that helps clear pores and exfoliate dead skin
Glycolic Acid – An alpha hydroxy acid that smooths and softens skin texture
Niacinamide – Balances oil production and calms inflammation
Zinc Oxide – Found in physical sunscreens, helps protect from sun damage that can worsen milia
We carry medical-grade options through ZO® Skin Health and AlumierMD™ that are specifically formulated for milia-prone and sensitive skin types.
FAQ About Milia Treatment at Our Oakville Medical Spa
Is milia removal painful?
The procedure is typically well tolerated. You may feel slight pressure or a quick pinch during manual extraction, but most patients describe the experience as comfortable and quick.
Can I get a Hydrafacial after milia extraction?
Yes. In fact, many patients benefit from combining manual milia extraction with a Hydrafacial for a deeper clean and added Hydrafacial benefits such as improved hydration, smoother texture, and clearer pores.
Will the milia come back?
Milia can recur, especially if contributing factors like heavy skincare products, poor exfoliation, or sun damage are not addressed. However, with the right skincare and regular maintenance, recurrence can be minimized.
Do you tip for laser facial treatments or milia removal?
No tipping is expected or required at APT Medical Aesthetics. We are a physician-directed medical clinic, and our pricing reflects the professionalism and medical-grade care provided at every visit.
Is milia treatment safe for all skin types?
Yes. Our medical professionals customize your treatment plan based on your skin type, sensitivity, and concerns. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, we’ll ensure the safest and most effective approach.
Have You Been Struggling with Milia That Won’t Go Away
Contact APT Medical Aesthetics now. Whether you want to book a consultation, find out more about our services, or simply want to ask a few questions, we would love to hear from you!
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Contact APT Medical Aesthetics now. Whether you want to book an appointment, find out a bit more about our services, or want to simply ask a few questions, we would love to hear from you!
APT Medical Aesthetics Ltd. is world-class private complete skin care clinic in the Greater Toronto Area of Ontario, serving Oakville. We
provide our treatments in a safe, trusting, comfortable environment. Our clinic is pleased to offer the most advanced and comprehensive skin care solutions
including Botox Cosmetic / Dysport / Xeomin, Dermal Filler, Laser Skin Resurfacing to clients across Ontario.
Contact us for more information or to book a free consultation appointment at our Oakville, or clinics. Our friendly team of beauty consultants
and aestheticians are available Monday to Friday 9 am to 6 pm, Saturday & Sunday : Closed
We are open weekdays for class sessions and by request.
If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at info@aptmedspa.com