One of the most common skin conditions worldwide is Milia, commonly known as “milk spots.” In the United States alone, it is estimated that they affect up to 3 million people annually. Although they are common on newborns, they can affect people of any age and many struggle to remove them.
Understanding the nature of the condition can help you to see how natural treatments may be able to help. In this post, we will discuss those factors, along with 10 natural treatments that can help to reduce the appearance of milk spots.
What are milk spots?
Milk spots (Milia) are a type of skin condition that can cause white, raised bumps that occur, most commonly, on the surface of the cheeks and nose.
These bumps occur when keratin, a type of protein, gets trapped underneath the skin. It can occur in people of all ages, but it is more common in newborns. The little white bumps cover their faces, cheeks eyelids and it is sometimes referred to as baby acne.
Doctors are unsure why babies experience milk spots, but it may have something to do with the hormones of the mother. Some dermatologists also feel that the undeveloped skin glands of the baby are related to this problem.
The Causes of Milk Spots
Milk spots may occur in adults for a number of different reasons, typically when there is damage to the skin. Pre-existing skin conditions, blistering, burns or sun damage and even the use of steroid creams may be to blame.
Milk spots are not typically painful, itchy or inflamed but some people are self-conscious about the problem. In babies, a problem with milk spots may clear up quickly but in adults, it may take a few months.
Below are some of the all natural treatments available to reduce the appearance of milk spots. They are sometimes considered as an alternative to more abrasive and aggressive treatments.
Remedy 1: Sugar Lemon Juice Scrub
Combine 2 tablespoons of sugar with the juice from 1/2 lemon and add 1 teaspoon olive oil.
Use this mixture to gently clean the face and leave it on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse your face with clear water to remove.
Remedy 2: Raw Honey
Using raw honey as a facial scrub may help to reduce an issue with milk spots because honey helps your face to retain moisture.
Remedy 3: Castor Oil
The antibacterial and natural healing properties of castor oil make it ideal for treating the skin. Mix equal parts of Olive oil and castor oil and apply it as a mask to the face. Leave it on until absorbed then wash your face with cool water.
Remedy 4: Steam
Steam can help to promote blood circulation and unclog your pores. Rinse a towel with hot water, squeeze out the excess and gently press the towel on your face for a few minutes.
Remedy 5: Tea Tree Oil
Wash your face and apply tea tree oil to the areas where milk spots are appearing. Leave it on overnight and give it a good rinse in the morning. Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant and has both antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Remedy 6: Pomegranate Peel
Roasted pomegranate peel powder is a popular milk spot remedy. Roast pomegranate peels until they are brown. Crush them into a fine powder and mix them in lemon juice. Apply it as a mask to the face for 15 minutes then rinse it off. Do this daily until the spots disappear.
Remedy 7: Cornstarch and Apple Cider Vinegar
Combine Apple cider vinegar and corn starch to make a paste and apply it to the area that is affected for 25 minutes, afterward rinse it off. The cornstarch can help to absorb excess oil and ACV has many health benefits.
Remedy 8: Fenugreek Leaves
These leaves are known to be anti-inflammatory and have antiseptic properties. Use fresh leaves, grind them with water and spread the paste on your face. Allow the paste to remain for 15 minutes and then rinse.
Remedy 9: Makeup Removal
Taking care of your skin may help to clear it more quickly. Wash your face twice daily, eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables and remove your makeup before going to bed.
Remedy 10: Avoid Sunlight
Excessive exposure to sunlight may lead to milk spots, so avoiding sunlight can be a help against a future outbreak.
It may also benefit you to stay away from heavy cosmetics and if you are dealing with a breakout, don’t try to pop or scratch the spots.
Via: Little Things
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