Cleansing balms have been gaining popularity in recent years as a gentle and effective way to remove makeup and cleanse the skin. However, some users have reported experiencing milia – small, white bumps that appear on the skin. Can cleansing balms be to blame? In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between cleansing balms and milia, as well as provide tips on how to prevent and treat them.
Milia: Causes and Symptoms
Before delving into whether cleansing balms can cause milia, it’s important to understand what milia are and what causes them. Milia are tiny cysts that form on the skin, often around the eyes and on the cheeks. They are caused by trapped keratin – a protein found in skin cells. Milia can be unsightly, but they are harmless and usually go away on their own. However, they can be bothersome and difficult to eliminate without professional help.
Symptoms of milia include small, white or yellowish bumps on the skin that do not go away. They are often mistaken for acne or whiteheads, but unlike those conditions, milia are not inflammatory and do not have a pore opening. Milia can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, sun damage, and certain skincare products.
What Are Cleansing Balms?
Cleansing balms are a type of cleanser that are oil-based and designed to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities from the skin. They are typically applied to dry skin and massaged in, then emulsified with water to create a milky texture that can be rinsed away. Cleansing balms are gentle and moisturizing, making them a popular choice for those with dry or sensitive skin.
How Cleansing Balms Work
Cleansing balms work by attracting and dissolving oil-based impurities on the skin, such as makeup and sunscreen. They are typically made with a combination of oils, waxes, and emulsifiers that help to break down and remove these impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This makes them a good choice for those with dry or sensitive skin, as traditional foaming cleansers can be too harsh and drying.
Ingredients to Avoid
While cleansing balms can be a gentle and effective way to cleanse the skin, some ingredients may contribute to the formation of milia. These include:
- Comedogenic oils: Some oils, such as coconut oil and cocoa butter, have a high comedogenic rating and can clog pores, leading to milia.
- Waxes: Certain types of waxes, such as beeswax and lanolin, can also contribute to the formation of milia.
- Fragrance: Fragrance can be irritating to the skin and may contribute to the formation of milia.
Finding the Right Cleansing Balm
To avoid the formation of milia, it’s important to choose a cleansing balm that is free of comedogenic oils, waxes, and fragrance. Look for products that contain non-comedogenic oils, such as jojoba, grapeseed, or sunflower oil, and avoid those that contain beeswax or lanolin. It’s also a good idea to patch test any new product before using it all over your face, to ensure that it doesn’t cause any adverse reactions.
What to Do About Milia
If you already have milia, there are a few things you can do to help get rid of them. These include:
- Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can help to prevent milia from forming. However, be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can irritate the skin.
- Professional treatment: If milia persist, you can seek professional treatment from a dermatologist or esthetician. They may use a small needle or blade to extract the milia, or recommend chemical peels or laser treatments to help eliminate them.
Alternatives to Cleansing Balms
If you’re concerned about the potential for cleansing balms to cause milia, there are alternative cleansing methods that you can try. These include:
- Micellar water: Micellar water is a gentle, water-based cleanser that uses tiny micelles to attract and remove impurities from the skin. It’s a good choice for those with sensitive skin, as it doesn’t require rubbing or tugging to remove makeup.
- Oil cleansers: Oil cleansers are similar to cleansing balms, but are typically lighter in texture and don’t require emulsification. Look for non-comedogenic oils, such as grapeseed or sunflower oil, to avoid the formation of milia.
