Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & WriterUpdated on Mar 03, 2024
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation processWith an even skin texture and clear skin, you radiate a natural glow. But, dead skin cells can cause skin issues like milia. Hence, we’ve curated this list of the best drugstore products for milia that can enhance the exfoliating ability of the skin to prevent milia formation. By doing chemical exfoliation, and manual extraction, you can improve this skin condition (1). As per our experts, using these products can deeply exfoliate and cleanse your skin – making it soft and less prone to milia formation.
Sharing the reason behind the occurrence of skin issues like milia, our contributor Dr. Jaishree Sharad, a certified dermatologist, says, “Your skin sheds older cells from the surface to make room for younger and healthier cells from the deeper layers that rise up over the period of a month. When skin fails to shed these cells, they get trapped beneath the newer cells and lead to formation of a cyst known as a milium. Trauma, excessive sun exposure and inadvertent use of steroid creams can exacerbate milia.”
According to Albert Kligmam, a well-renowned dermatologist, “Milia are probably the most benign tumors of the skin.” Milia may appear in any part of your body, especially on your face. Mostly, these white papules that are more commonly found around eyelids, cheeks, nose, scalp, etc don’t leave any scars (2). However, by ensuring that the natural barrier of your face is protected, you may be able to avoid this cyst-like formation.
Finding the best drugstore product that may give your skin proper nourishment and deep cleansing without compromising on skin protection and quality could be confusing. To reduce the occurrences of milia and help you find a suitable drugstore product, we have curated a list of our favorite products for you below. Scroll away to see our recommendations.
What Is Milia?
Milia are harmless, transparent keratin cysts that appear as small yet firm white bumps in various numbers, especially around the face (2). Milia may occur at any age, however, certain studies suggest it's most commonly found as an inherited skin condition in newborns. Owing to the occurrence of milia, it’s classified as:
- Primary Milia: Primary milia may be associated with inherited milia, present right from your birth. These appear mostly around your nose, scalp, cheeks, gum border, palate, etc. Primary milia may also be associated with certain genetic skin disorders.
- Secondary Milia: Secondary milia is mainly associated with skin trauma (like radiotherapy) and medications including topical steroid and anti-inflammatory drug use. Both males and females are equally prone to this skin disorder.
Our top picks
12 Best Drugstore Products for Milia
Make your skin feel smooth and bump-free with this skin-perfecting serum by Paula’s Choice. Infused with active ingredients like salicylic acid, salicylic acid BHA and green tea extracts – this exfoliating liquid gets rid of blackheads and those large pesky pores. The gentle cleansing properties of this milia removal product ensure your skin is free from dead skin cells that may lead to milia formation. Leaving no room for oil and dirt, those breakouts bothering your skincare routine can be bid goodbye with this must-have exfoliator. Soaking in your skin, it’s non-sticky and soft on your skin. The added perk is the cruelty-free formula of this composition – you’re being kind not only towards your skin but animals too.
Pros
- Refines skin texture
- Anti-aging formula
- Unclogs pores
- Non-greasy
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
2
Best for Pigmentation
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
Pamper your skin with this adapalene gel by Differin. With a water-based formula, this cleansing gel restores skin texture and normalizes skin turnover — leaving your skin soft and less prone to milia formation. The deep-exfoliating properties of this product unclog pores and clear breakouts. With an alcohol-free composition, this acne gel is also effective for scarring and hyperpigmentation. Featuring a travel-friendly size, you can carry this product along to ensure your breakout issues are getting the best out of you while you’re enjoying a good trip.
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Anti-inflammatory formula
- Reduces pigmentation
Cons
- May cause itching
- Slower results
3
Best Anti-aging formula
LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream High-Potency Hyaluronic Blend
Crafted to offer your skin superior rejuvenating effects, this cream by LilyAna Naturals moisturizes your skin thoroughly. Infused with active ingredients like aloe, hyaluronic acid, green tea, vitamin E, shea butter, and jojoba oil – this milia removal cream makes your complexion radiant and beautiful. The retinol-based formula of this product makes it effective for minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. You'd love the lightweight texture of this cream that leaves your skin buttery smooth and soft. The added perk is that it leaves no residue allowing your skin to indulge in a glowing radiance.
Pros
- Anti-aging formula
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Free of artificial fragrances
- Vegan
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- May trigger acne
4
Best for Blackheads
Body Merry Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Cleanser
Composed of a luxurious formula, this gentle cleanser by Body Merry makes your skin youthful and radiant. Enriched with plant-based ingredients like jojoba oil, tea tree oil, aloe, and vitamin E – this naturally made cleanser makes your skin soft and supple without stripping it of natural oils. Leaving no room for dead cells, this may be a good pick to promote the growth of new skin cells. The exfoliating properties of this product clean your pores deeply and help you get rid of those annoying blackheads and blemishes that seem to take forever to leave. Flaunt your bright complexion with the powerful deep-cleaning effect of this product.
Pros
- Renews skin texture
- Cruelty-free
- Rich lather
- Cleans dirt and impurities
- Reduces pore size
Cons
- May cause breakouts
5
Best Versatile Tool
SUVORNA Skinpal S100 Pimple Popper Tool Kit, Milia Remover
Bid goodbye to milia, whiteheads, and those irritating blackheads with this popper tool kit by SUVORNA. Made with rust-resistant stainless steel, this tool is safe for your skin and doesn't cause any skin infections. When you feel compelled to pop those milia formations, pimples, or blackheads, this versatile tool will come to your rescue and help you from worsening them. Featuring better hand control, you can use it gently and avoid damaging your skin in the process. Drawing from our experience, always disinfect these tools before using them and follow up with cleansing your skin. It comes with a portable bag that is good for storing the tools as well as for carrying along.
Pros
- Hygienic
- Multi-purpose
- Rust proof
- Anti-slip handle
- Prevents skin infections
Cons
- Doesn't come with proper instructions
6
Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment
Rejuvenate your skin with this retinol serum by Paula’s Choice. Infused with retinol, vitamin C, and licorice extract, this product reduces the appearance of wrinkles and gives your skin a youthful, radiant appearance. Best suited to eliminate the bumpy texture and dull skin, this might be an effective pick to eliminate milia. The hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid give your skin a plump and supple appearance. Formulated with a high-strength composition, this anti-antioxidant serum makes your skin firm and softens the look of acne marks without causing dryness.
Pros
- Anti-aging formula
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May cause burning sensations
- Small container
7
Best Overall
QRx Labs Glycolic/Salicylic Acid 10/2 Acne Control Pads
Crafted to purify your skin, this salicylic acid jar by QRx Labs controls sebum production and eliminates bacteria causing acne – making your skin feel clean and radiant. Containing pure glycolic acid and salicylic acid, this product is well suited to take care of your milia woes. Fused with skin-boosting ingredients like vitamins B5, C & E, these control pads control acne breakouts and give your skin a healthier-looking glow. The goodness doesn't end there as it also contains allantoin, green tea, and calendula extracts — perfect to soothe inflammation and redness. Repair, moisturize, and exfoliate your skin with the gentle formula of these non-woven textured pads with easy application.
Pros
- Antioxidant formula
- Eliminates dead skin
- Gentle application
- Doesn't dry skin out
Cons
- Makes your face sticky
8
Best for Blemishes
Glycolix Elite Replenix Discoloration Resurfacing Peel
Designed to give you a brighter complexion, this resurfacing peel by Glycolix gives your skin a clear and even tone. The infusion of glycolic acid makes this product effective for improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of age spots and blemishes. With a refined texture, you may as well be able to prevent the formation of milia. Highly enriched with vitamins A, C, and E, these pads are powerfully packed to offer superior antioxidant protection. Featuring a face peel formula, it reveals a smoother complexion without triggering any skin irritations.
Pros
- Reduces pore size
- Hydrating formula
- Minimizes pigmentation
- Easy to use
Cons
- May deepen fine lines
- Slightly thin
9
Best for Treating Pores
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting BHA 9 9% Salicylic Acid
Designed to combat stubborn pores, this BHA salicylic acid by Paula’s Choice is perfect to unclog pores and reduce those pesky red bumps, blackheads, and blemishes. With a highly-concentrated yet controllable infusion of 9% BHA, this skin-perfecting gel gives noticeable results that you would love for your skin. Your milia concerns might as well be settled effectively. The deep-exfoliating properties of this product are enhanced with the infusion of glycerin, arginine, oat & sea whip extracts. Get clearer bump-free skin and tend to it with the anti-inflammatory properties of this product.
Pros
- Reduces blackheads
- Offers spot treatment
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Clears out pores
- Oil control composition
Cons
- May cause allergic reactions
- Slow results
10
Best Fragrance-free Formula
NOVENSA MILIA REMOVER TREATMENT Fat Granule Clearing Skin Essence
Eliminate those irksome milia formations and whiteheads with this skin-clearing essence by NOVENSA. Formulated with a lightweight composition, it absorbs rapidly and improves your skin texture. This milia spot serum is also quite effective for reducing the signs of milia and is often counted among the best milia treatments. Free of irritants, it's suitable for sensitive skin too and doesn't clog your pores. Apply this after your moisturizer to get velvety soft and clean skin.
Pros
- Unclogs pores
- Vegan
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Allergy-tested
Cons
- Watery consistency
11
TreeActiv Milia Treatment Skin Vitamins
Detoxify your skin and unveil a healthy glow with these skin vitamins by TreeActiv. Specially designed to regulate sebum production, these help you tackle acne effectively. Strengthen your skin barrier with these detox tables that contain nicotinamide, copper, zinc, folic acid, and pyridoxine, milk thistle. The most notable feature may be that it boosts collagen formation – something that may help in releasing dead skin cells and dealing with milia. Give your skin the best nourishment it needs and radiate a healthy glow.
Pros
- Controls sebum production
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
Cons
- May cause stomach issues
12
Best Exfoliating Pads
Nuva Botanicals Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Pads
Attain naturally smoother and brighter skin with these glycolic acid pads by Nuva Botanicals. Formulated with natural ingredients like castor oil, witch hazel, and vitamins C & E, these nourishing pads hydrate your skin and make it soft and bright. The exfoliating properties of this product make it effective for eliminating dead skin cells and owing to that, it might be a good pick if you feel a lack of exfoliation leads to milia formation for you. So, say your goodbyes to dull skin and indulge in a beautiful glow.
Pros
- Exfoliating formula
- Removes dead skin cells
- Reduces acne scars
- Smoothens your skin
Cons
- May cause skin irritation
Now that you have seen our product recommendations for the best drugstore products for Milia, refer to the following buying guide so that you can shop wisely.
How to Choose Drugstore Products for Milia?
Here are some of the factors to consider before buying the best drugstore product for milia:
1. Ingredients
One of the most important factors before buying a drugstore product for milia is the ingredients. Serums, lotions, face pads, etc have a varied composition, however going for products that contain retinol, salicylic acid, etc. may be more effective. However, avoid scrubbing or using these products excessively especially around your eyelids and lips as they may have a drying effect on your skin. While going for detox tablets, ensure you don’t eat them on an empty stomach to avoid any stomach issues.
2. Read the Labels Carefully
To get the best out of a product, read through the labels carefully and go through the instructions properly to avoid any skin irritations. Steer clear of products that contain a lot of harsh chemicals to protect the skin barrier from damage.
3. Know Your Skin Type
Before using any product on your face, ensure they are formulated for your skin type. If you’ve oily skin, you may want to go for gel-based products. However, if you have a dry skin type, cream-based formulations might be more effective for you.
How to Use Drugstore Products for Milia?
Step 1: Cleanse your face thoroughly. Ensure it’s clean and free from any impurities.
Step 2: Take a pea-sized amount of the product. Don’t rub harshly.
Step 3: Follow up with the moisturizer to seal in the moisture.
Step 4: For best results, follow the instructions provided.
Conclusion
Attaining a refined facial appearance feels so fulfilling. However, with milia bumps covering your face, your skin may look dull and damaged. Your skin may also not feel as fresh and rejuvenated. Hence, having some of the best drugstore products for milia to choose from relieves you of the stress of finding a drugstore product that meets your skincare requirements without causing any skin reactions. By using these products, you can get rid of milia, blackheads, and those pesky pores – leaving your skin clean and fresh. Ensure you go through the buying guide to find the best product for yourself. Happy shopping!
Contributor: Dr. Jaishree Sharad, Dermatologist, Medical Director - Skinfinitii Aesthetic & Laser Clinic
FAQ's
Which product is best for milia?
Some of the best products for Milia are QRX Labs Glycolic/Salicylic Acid 10/2 Acne Control Pads Professional Strength, Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment, and Nuva Botanicals Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Pads.
Is retinol or salicylic acid better for milia?
Both salicylic acid and retinol are effective for milia.
Which acid is best for milia?
Salicylic acid has proven to be quite effective for milia.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Anoushka is a certified in-house professional skincare expert. As a skincare enthusiast, she understands the challenges faced by people who suffer from skin concerns like milia. Choosing a drugstore product that can treat milia without triggering any skin allergies can be challenging. Hence, after extensive research, she has curated this list of some of the best drugstore products that can reduce milia formation as well as cleanse the skin deeply to prevent its formation.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More
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