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Question:Why do I keep getting whiteheads even though I clean my face every day?Answer:Proper exfoliation prevents Milia, those annoying little bumps that appear as whiteheads below the surface of the skin that never seem to go away. People who are predisposed to milia experience significant frustration, particularly when the bumps continue to form despite their best efforts at keeping their skin "clean." Unfortunately, cleanliness isn't the problem - milia form because of the skin's inability to naturally exfoliate. When the skin cells do not exfoliate, they form tiny cysts that appear like white beads and become trapped below the surface of the skin. This forms the thick material that oozes out when you pop the whitehead. Milia are different than acne and can occur on the surface of the skin or even on mucous membranes such as the inner surface of the cheek or the border of the lips. One of the reasons milia form is because heavy skin care or hair care products are comedogenic; or in other words, they clog the pores. Comedogenic creams and lotions may prevent the sloughing of dead epidermal skin cells. Hidden problems include make-up removers, hair mousse and gel, heavy sunscreens and some moisturizers. Certain lipsticks, lip balms and products meant to soothe chapped lips may also be the cause of milia developing around the edge of lips, also called the vermillion border. If you see milia forming, take a good look at the ingredients on the label and make sure that you are using a product like Replenish that helps with the exfoliation process. The formation of milia can also be due to cumulative sun exposure. Aging skin forms a thicker epidermis that can make it far more difficult for skin cells to find their way out of the glands. Remember, milia are deep-seeded and will disappear as the skin is exfoliated or shed. Exfoliation is very important when dealing with milia-prone skin. By keeping the epidermis thin and smooth, you can cut down on their formation. Replenish accomplishes this goal. Sometimes, milia won’t come out of the skin's surface, despite your best efforts. Then you may need your dermatologist to remove the milia. In a physician’s office, milia are easily removed. The skin is cleansed, and the skin overlying the milia is gently opened with a sterile lancet or needle. Pressure is applied with a comedone extractor, and the milia typically pop out. Using rejuvenating and exfoliating products like Nourish and Replenish is important not only to prevent milia but to also create optimally healthy skin.
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