Milia
- Typical age
- Newborns
- Where
- nose, cheeks, chin
- Fever
- no
- Itchy
- no
- Contagious
- No
- Usually lasts
- A few weeks
What it looks like
Tiny pearly white or yellow bumps, like grains of sand under the skin, present at or soon after birth.
On brown and black skin, redness may look purple, grey or darker than surrounding skin; texture (raised, rough, blistered) is often the better clue.
What causes it
Trapped skin flakes (keratin) in tiny cysts. Completely harmless.
What helps at home
- Leave them alone; they clear by themselves.
- Wash with water only. Don’t squeeze.
When to call about milia
Call 911 or go to the ER now
- Rash that does not fade when you press a clear glass against it (possible petechiae or purpura)
- Baby under 3 months with a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Call your pediatrician today
- Still there after 3 months
General guidance based on AAP, NHS and CDC advice, not a diagnosis. If your gut says something is wrong, call your pediatrician or nurse line. You never need permission to seek care.
Questions parents ask
Are milia the same as baby acne?
No. Milia are white, present from birth and not inflamed. Baby acne is red and appears at a few weeks.