What are milia in infants?

Milia in infants are small, white bumps that often appear on the face, particularly around the nose, cheeks, and chin. These bumps are tiny cysts that result from distended sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing oil. In newborns, these glands can become blocked or clogged, leading to the formation of milia.

These lesions are usually benign and typically resolve on their own within a few weeks or months as the baby's skin matures and the sebaceous glands become more functional. Milia are quite common in infants and do not usually require any treatment, making it important for caregivers to understand their harmless nature. Understanding that milia are a normal part of an infant's development can help alleviate concerns for new parents.