Can Eye Creams Cause Milia? Here Are All Your Burning Questions, Answered
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Often mistaken for traditional spots, milia seeds are small white nodules commonly seen around the eye area.
Although similar in appearance to whiteheads, milia have a different composition and cause.
If you've seen milia around your eyes, you may be pondering whether a new eye cream is to blame.
Rich moisturisers are often blamed for causing acne spots and pimples, so it’s logical to think they could be the cause of milia too.
So, is this a skincare myth or fact? Can eye creams cause milia? We investigate.
FYI: You can listen to Jo and Hannah chat about Milia in the podcast ep below...
What *Actually* Causes Milia?
Unlike pimples, which are collections of sebum, bacteria, and dead skin, milia are actually a concentrated growth of Keratin (also a buildup of dead skin cells).
However, while they are similar, unlike spots, milia don’t need to form from a pore.
Here are some common factors in the formation of milia:
- Genetics
- Sun damage
- Skin damage from rashes, abrasions, or other injuries
- Rich, occlusive moisturisers
So, while eye cream is unlikely to be the sole cause of milia, there are several accounts linking milia to occlusive creams.
Occlusive creams or balms are great for preventing moisture loss, but they do so by creating an additional barrier on top of your skin.
This may provoke milia by hindering the skin's natural exfoliation process.
Common occlusive ingredients include Mineral oil, Beeswax, Vegetable wax (Carnauba), Lanolin, Petroleum, Squalene and Dimethicone.
The Best Eye Creams To Use if You’re Prone to Milia Around the Eyes
If you’re prone to milia you might need to try a lightweight eye cream or serum, free from occlusive ingredients.
Those that boost cellular exfoliation with AHAs or Retinol are an added bonus. Here are our top picks.
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum 15ml
What it is: The antithesis of a heavy cream, the Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum 15ml offers a lightweight formula infused with Retinol Tri-Active Technology (yep, that’s three kinds of retinol).
While the combination of Retinol works to promote cell turnover, a Marine Kelp Extract Complex helps to fight dark circles and leaves skin looking bright and refreshed.
Why we love it:
- The combination of Retinol works to exfoliate and break down dead skin cells, so your under eye looks clear and creaseless.
- With anti-ageing benefits and glowy results, this non-greasy formula is a winner in our books.
- Plus, it’s serum formula makes it better than the best retinol eye cream for milia under eyes.
BOOST LAB Bio-Active Eye Reset Serum
What it is: Sulfate, paraben, fragrance, oil and cruelty-free - BOOST LAB Bio-Active Eye Reset Serum hydrates without any heavy or irritating ingredients.
If you’re wondering how to treat milia, an eye care product with a serum formula is your best bet. You’ll notice significant results, as it offers the same amount of moisture as a cream without the heaviness.
Why we love it:
- Looking for a genuine triple threat? This serum is lightweight, hydrating and affordable.
- Designed to tackle dark circles, puffiness and fine lines, this serum features a variety of active blends that target these common issues.
- It can be used morning and night to help with overall skin tone.
Alpha-H Liquid Gold Firming Eye Cream
What it is: With a cooling applicator, this illuminating formula is the best eye cream for milia, boasting a range of exfoliating AHA’s.
Quadruple peptide technology helps to firm, lift and brighten, for illuminating results.
Why we love it:
- While this is a cream based formula, it is lightweight and absorbent, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and refreshed.
- The applicator also reduces puffiness, but proceed with caution if you have sensitive skin.
Cosmedix Eye Genius Brilliant Eye Complex 7ml
What it is: An innovative formula that smooths fine lines and circles, while keeping the under eye area hydrated.
This liquid serum formula uses a blend of 5 peptides to promote firmness, while letting the skin breathe.
Why we love it:
- While the price tag on this eye serum is high, the results are also lush.
- It has a beautiful consistency and works hard to offer brightness, for a wide eyed look.
How To Prevent Milia and Our Best Milia Treatments
You’re best bet with preventing and treating milia is chemical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliants are absorbed by skin and so can treat several layers simultaneously, which is particularly great for prevention.
Here are some of the products we recommend for treating milia, which include star ingredients like Retinol and Glycolic acid:
Alpha-H Liquid Gold Exfoliating Treatment 100ml
What it is: A potent Glycolic acid treatment that can be used at night, containing 5% Glycolic acid. This chemical exfoliant has a similar consistency to a toner with the effects of a strong serum. Those with sensitive skin should introduce it slowly into their routine.
Why we love it:
- When it comes to getting rid of bumps on your under eye, Glycolic acid is a powerhouse at diminishing dead skin cells, buildup and debris.
- This gorgeous treatment also brightens the skin like no other for some serious glow, as it includes moisturising benefits.
Dermalist Ultra Hydrating Lactic Cleanser 200ml
What it is: A daily cleanser that offers gradual exfoliation from Lactic acid, along with a whole host of hero ingredients.
There is something in this cleanser for everyone, but if you’re wondering how to get rid of milia under eyes, using an exfoliating cleanser daily can be a great way to keep the skin’s surface clear of dirt and debris.
Why we love it:
- It’s great at dissolving dirt and makeup and leaves the skin with a fresh glow.
- It also contains Vitamin C for brightening and Niacinamide and Green tea to soothe irritation.
La Roche-Posay Redermic Retinol B3 Serum 30ml
What it is: This Retinol serum, designed with sensitive skin in mind is perfect for targeting milia, without exacerbating it.
It contains both instant and gradual release Retinol for a visibly smoother and renewed complexion. If you’re nervous about trying Retinol, this one is the one to try!
Why we love it:
- Both gentle and effective, this Retinol is truly a stand out.
- In over 8 weeks you can see visible results, without the flakiness you may experience from other Retinol formulas.
What it is: This fan favourite Korean brand has formulated a range of products with multiple chemical exfoliants (BHA, AHA, PHA), combined with Cantella with oily skin in mind.
If you’re experiencing milia, it’s best to switch to a moisturiser formula without occlusive ingredients.
Why we love it:
- This gel cream replenishes hydration and helps with the regeneration of new skin cells.
- The lightweight gel like formula will allow your skin to breathe while gently exfoliating on multiple levels.
Still interested? You can find more of the best eye care products in the guides below...
Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.
