Fordyce spots are a common skin occurrence that many individuals notice at various points in their lives. These small, often unnoticeable, bumps are a natural variation of the skin, not a disease or an infection.
Understanding Fordyce Spots
Fordyce spots, also known as Fordyce granules or Fordyce glands, are enlarged sebaceous (oil) glands that appear on hairless areas of the skin. Unlike typical sebaceous glands, they are not associated with hair follicles. These spots commonly present as small, white, yellow, or flesh-colored bumps.
They can appear as single lesions, in small groups, or in clusters of 50 or more. Common locations include the edges of the lips (vermillion border), inside the cheeks, and on genital areas such as the penis, scrotum, or labia. While present from birth, these spots often become more noticeable around puberty due to hormonal changes, which can cause the oil glands to enlarge.
Natural Resolution
Fordyce spots generally do not go away on their own. They are permanent structures, much like freckles or moles, and typically remain present throughout an individual’s life.
Factors such as hormonal shifts or skin hydration can influence how prominent they appear. However, this fluctuation does not mean the spots are disappearing. Since they are harmless and pose no health risks, medical treatment is usually not necessary.
Treatment Options
While Fordyce spots are typically asymptomatic, various removal methods exist for individuals seeking cosmetic improvement. These procedures are elective, meaning they are not medically required.
One option is micro-punch excision, where a small pen-like instrument removes individual spots. Laser therapies are also utilized, including CO2 laser resurfacing and pulsed dye laser treatment. CO2 lasers remove thin layers of skin and can be effective, though they carry a risk of scarring. Pulsed dye lasers may offer a lower risk of scarring but can be more expensive.
Electrodessication involves using an electric needle to burn away the spots. Other approaches include cryotherapy (freezing) or certain topical treatments.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable if there is uncertainty about whether bumps are indeed Fordyce spots. This is particularly important if new spots appear, or if existing ones become painful, itchy, bleed, or change in appearance, color, or size. These symptoms could indicate other skin conditions that might resemble Fordyce spots but require medical attention, such as certain infections or skin lesions.
Additionally, if the spots cause significant cosmetic distress or emotional impact, a doctor can discuss available treatment options and provide appropriate referrals.