Blemishes on the skin can take many forms -- it's not just about spots and blackheads. One of the most annoying conditions is the appearance of tiny bumps that can really affect the clarity and condition of the complexion. These little spots, called milia, are also notoriously tricky to deal with.

As Tatyana Chemerynska, co-owner of Rouge Beauty Salon, explains, milia, which are sometimes called whiteheads, occur when the skin cannot exfoliate naturally and skin cells and pigment become trapped.

They can appear anywhere on the face but usually form around the eyes and the cheeks. In combination with bacteria, whiteheads can also cause acne and in severe cases lead to cystic acne. So why do we get them?

Tatyana says the most common cause is over-heavy skin products. "You can also get them from too much sun exposure and develop thicker skin with more blockages. Alternatively, some people just have the type of skin which can't exfoliate itself properly, and are, therefore, more prone to milia and other such common problems."

When it comes to milia, it seems prevention is better, or at least a lot easier, than cure. Tatyana recommends exfoliating at home twice a week, as this will help reduce the build up of trapped skin under the surface which can often turn into milia.

She adds that some lipsticks and lip balms can cause milia around the edge of the lips.

"We would also suggest you stick with an oil-free sunscreen, if possible, as oil ones can often clog up the skin."

Regular deep-cleanse facials will help remove the stubborn build up of skin on the surface, and Tatyana advises: "Facials which incorporate extractions and steam leave the skin with a fresh new layer of skin which looks and feels radiant."

There are some treatment options available as well. "We use specific equipment at Rouge to rid the skin of the milia. A tiny electrical current is used allowing the quick removal of the stubborn whitehead from the area. The current works to liquidise the hard oil trapped under the skin allowing the whitehead to naturally come out of the skin without leaving any scars. This treatment is usually instant and is permanent."

Home remedies: Milia

Make sure to exfoliate as this will encourage new skin and prevent the build up of old and dirty skin.

Rouge Beauty Salon, 199 Rathmines Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Tel: 01 498 2505. Email: rougebeauty@hotmail.com

- Brenda McCormick