Fordyce spots are tiny, visible sebaceous glands that can appear on various parts of the body. In most instances, these common skin findings are not associated with pain. They represent a natural anatomical variation rather than a disease.
What Are Fordyce Spots?
Fordyce spots are enlarged, slightly raised sebaceous glands that become visible on hairless areas of the skin, particularly on mucous membranes. They commonly appear as small bumps, ranging from 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter, with colors that can be pale white, yellow, or reddish. These spots often cluster together, though they can also appear as single lesions.
These spots are frequently found on the edges of the lips, inside the cheeks, and on genital areas such as the penis, scrotum, or labia. While present from birth, Fordyce spots typically become more noticeable around puberty due to hormonal changes that can enlarge the oil glands.
Why Fordyce Spots Are Usually Not Painful
Fordyce spots do not cause physical discomfort like itching or pain. This is because they are ectopic sebaceous glands, which are oil-producing glands that develop in unusual locations without an associated hair follicle. Unlike other skin conditions, Fordyce spots are not inflamed or infected under normal circumstances.
These glands produce sebum, a natural oily substance that lubricates the skin. Their function is purely related to sebum production and does not involve nerve endings in a way that would transmit pain signals.
When Pain or Discomfort Might Occur
While Fordyce spots themselves are typically painless, discomfort can arise from external factors or misidentification. Irritation from friction, scratching, or aggressive cleaning of the affected area can lead to temporary discomfort, itching, or minor inflammation. Squeezing these spots is also not recommended, as it will not remove them and can cause irritation or lead to secondary infection.
If the skin around the spots is broken, a secondary bacterial or fungal infection could develop, causing pain, swelling, or redness. Sometimes, discomfort might be due to another, unrelated skin condition with a similar appearance. Therefore, if Fordyce spots become painful, swollen, red, or show signs of pus, or if there is persistent itching or burning, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and guidance. This helps rule out other conditions that might require medical attention.