Is it safe to remove a milia by oneself?

Milium cysts , these subcutaneous microcysts containing keratin, are entirely benign, beyond their unsightly appearance. They generally resolve themselves within a few weeks, without requiring any intervention. However, for purely aesthetic reasons, one might feel the desire to get rid of them more quickly. One might consider removing these milium cysts manually, by pressing to extract the material.

Furthermore, there are techniques available to remove them, including extraction using a milium grain extractor. This method involves pricking the milium grains with a needle, then expelling the contents using most often a comedone extractor, which will press on the sides of the cyst. It should be noted that these comedone extractors are freely sold on many internet sites. One might then be tempted to acquire one in order to carry out the extraction oneself.

However, it is strongly advised against removing a milium grain by oneself for several reasons.

• Clumsy usage. When you are not trained in the practice of these techniques, there is a risk of performing the operation incorrectly, which can be hazardous, particularly because the instruments used are often sharp. This could involve applying too much pressure by hand or with the extractor, extraction on a sensitive area, a sudden prick of the milium grain with the needle, injuries... You then run the risk of forming irreversible scars, redness, inflammation or even haematomas.

• Disregard for hygiene rules. Indeed, when hand washing procedures or sterilisation of devices are not adhered to, it can quickly become fertile ground for bacteria, fungi, and viruses. After the extraction of the keratin plug, the skin will be open and contaminants can easily penetrate it. This behaviour therefore presents a significant risk of infection.

• Poor post-extraction care. You have just removed the last milium grain that remained on your face. However, you are not taking the appropriate measures to apply post-extraction. This involves theuse of skincare to improve skin healing. If you do not adhere to these precautions, you expose yourself to potential scarring.

As you may have understood, it is not recommended to remove a milium cyst by yourself. Instead, it would be advisable to make an appointment with your doctor to discuss the appropriate treatment for your situation.

• SHALITA A. R. Comedo extraction. Archives of Dermatology (1972).

• KANWAR A. J. & al. Enucleation of milia with a disposable hypodermic needle. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2002).

• RUTALA W. A. & al. Disinfection and sterilization in health care facilities: What clinicians need to know. Clinical Infectious Diseases (2004).