Fordyce spots are small, painless, raised bumps that can appear on various mucous membranes of the body, including the lips and genitals. They represent a common and entirely normal anatomical variation. These spots are benign, meaning they are not harmful, are not contagious, and do not indicate an underlying disease or infection.
Understanding Fordyce Spots
Fordyce spots typically appear as white, yellowish, or flesh-colored bumps, usually measuring between 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter and are often more visible when the surrounding skin is stretched. These spots are enlarged sebaceous glands, which are oil-producing glands naturally found in the skin. Unlike typical sebaceous glands that are associated with hair follicles, Fordyce spots are unique because they appear in hairless areas. Common locations include the vermilion border of the lips, the inside of the cheeks, and genital areas such as the penis, scrotum, and labia. About 70% to 80% of adults have them.
Do Fordyce Spots Disappear Naturally?
Fordyce spots do not disappear on their own. They are a permanent part of the body’s anatomy, consisting of enlarged sebaceous glands. While their prominence might fluctuate, perhaps becoming more noticeable during puberty due to hormonal changes, they will not vanish. They remain present throughout a person’s life unless removal treatments are pursued.
When to Consult a Professional
Consulting a medical professional is advisable if there is any uncertainty regarding a diagnosis. If the spots are painful, itchy, bleeding, rapidly changing in appearance, or causing discharge, a doctor should be seen. It is especially important to seek a medical opinion if new spots appear on the genitals, as some sexually transmitted infections can resemble Fordyce spots. A healthcare provider can provide an accurate diagnosis, rule out other conditions, and offer reassurance.
Management and Removal Options
Since Fordyce spots are benign, treatment is not medically necessary and is sought for cosmetic reasons. Cosmetic removal methods are available and should be performed by a qualified dermatologist.
- Laser therapy, such as CO2 laser resurfacing, which targets and removes the spots with good cosmetic results.
- Pulsed dye lasers are another option, potentially with less scarring risk.
- Micro-punch excision is a surgical technique where a small pen-like instrument removes individual spots, and it has shown satisfactory results without recurrence in some studies.
- Topical treatments, including retinoids like tretinoin, may also be used to reduce their appearance, although they are less effective than procedural options and might require several weeks to show results.
These procedures may carry risks, such as scarring or discoloration, and sometimes require multiple sessions for optimal outcomes.