There are various ways to get rid of white spots under the eyes that you can try. Although these spots are generally harmless, their appearance often causes discomfort and lowers the self-confidence of the person experiencing it.
Small white spots or bumps under the eyes in medical terms are called milium. Meanwhile, milium which has developed into many is known as milia. Not only under the eyes, milia can also grow around the nose, eyelids, and cheeks.
Milia can happen to anyone, but it's most common in newborns. Babies who have milia generally do not require medical treatment and will go away on their own within a few weeks or months.
However, milia that occur in children or adults and do not go away require special treatment from a doctor.
Some Ways to Get Rid of White Spots Under Eyes Medically
Before determining the treatment course of action, the doctor will perform several examinations to ensure that the white spots that appear are milia. After the diagnosis has been confirmed, treatment is generally carried out through the administration of drugs by a doctor. The types of drugs given are:
1. Topical retinoids
Topical retinoids are topical medications in the form of creams, lotions, or gels that are prescribed by doctors to treat white spots under the eyes. The way this drug works is to remove dead skin cells on the skin and stimulate the growth of new skin cells.
Topical retinoids can also reduce the build-up of keratin that triggers the appearance of white spots. Besides being able to eliminate milia, retinoids are also effective for treating blackheads.
Avoid using retinoids in excess and in the long term, because they can cause irritation and peeling of the area of the skin that is applied to the drug. This drug is also not recommended for use by pregnant women. Therefore, first consult with your doctor before using it.
2. Deroofing
Deroofing is a procedure performed by making a small hole in the surface of the skin using a scalpel called lancet. Next, the keratin that forms milia is slowly pushed out with the fingers or a needle called a comedone extractor.
Although this method can be done independently, you are not recommended to do it deroofing itself because it can cause injury and damage to the skin.
3. Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a procedure performed by removing layers of dead skin using a laser. This procedure is generally done to treat scar tissue on the face.
In addition, dermabrasion is also performed to treat wrinkles, skin disorders due to sun exposure, and pigmentation disorders.
4. Peeling
Peeling This is done by applying one or more types of chemical liquid to exfoliate damaged skin cells, so that it can stimulate the formation of new skin cells. This procedure is usually done more than once with a gap of 3-6 months for each procedure.
5. Laser ablation
Laser ablation is a procedure to remove white spots using a laser beam. good dermabrasion, peeling, or laser ablation should be performed by a dermatologist. This is to prevent skin damage from getting worse.
6. Diathermy
Diathermy is a procedure that aims to destroy milia or white spots using high-frequency electric currents and stimulate the formation of new skin cells.
7. Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a medical procedure to treat white spots through the use of special fluids. This procedure can also be used to treat various types of tumors, whether benign, precancerous, or malignant.
8. Curettage
Curettage is a medical procedure in the form of scraping or cauterization of the layer of dead skin cells. This procedure involves burning skin tissue using electricity to remove milia.
Tips for Treatment and Prevention of White Spots Under Eyes
In addition to medical treatment, you can apply the following tips to help the healing process and prevent white spots under the eyes from reappearing:
Clean your face regularly
Clean your face regularly using a special facial soap made from gentle ingredients. After that, dry it using a dry towel by patting it gently to prevent blisters on the facial skin.
Avoid squeezing white spots
You are advised not to squeeze white spots or milia using your hands or any tools. This can actually lead to sores, scabs, and infections.
Do steam therapy
To keep facial skin moist and prevent the appearance of white spots under the eyes, you can try steam therapy. The method is very easy. Prepare a basin of hot water, then direct your face to the steam generated from the hot water in the basin.
Leave it for 5–8 minutes and let the steam open the pores of the facial skin and release dead skin cells. When finished, gently pat your face with a towel.
Facial Exfoliation
Facial exfoliation is one way that can be used to remove dead skin cells. This procedure can be performed using skin care products that contain salicylic acid, citric acid, or glycolic acid.
However, facial exfoliation should not be done too often. Do it at least once a week.
Use honey
Honey is known to have antimicrobial properties that can reduce inflammation and infection. A study showed that honey mixed with cinnamon bark extract was effective in reducing bacteria that cause skin infections.
Although white spots under the eyes are usually not caused by bacteria, you can use this method to improve the appearance of your skin.
Treatment for White Spots Under Baby's Eyes
White spots around a newborn's face generally do not require medical treatment. However, there are several ways you can do to keep your baby's skin intact, including:
- Keep the baby's body and face clean using baby soap made from soft and warm water.
- Dry the baby's face using a soft towel or pat gently and slowly until the water on the baby's face dries.
- Avoid squeezing the white spots on the baby's face because it can cause irritation and infection.
- Avoid using lotion or oil on the baby's face.
Some of the ways above you can try to do to get rid of white spots under the eyes and maintain healthy skin. If the spots that appear do not go away in several months and have caused discomfort, immediately consult a dermatologist to determine the right treatment.