From the Research
Fordyce spots are benign, harmless sebaceous glands that become visible on the surface of the skin or mucous membranes, and no treatment is necessary as they are a natural anatomical variation rather than a disease or infection. They are small, painless, pale yellow or white bumps that appear on the genitals, lips, or inside the cheeks. According to a study published in 2019 1, Fordyce spots are ectopic sebaceous glands which typically present as asymptomatic, multiple whitish, or yellowish 1-3-mm sized papules on the lips.
If someone is concerned about their appearance for cosmetic reasons, treatment options include:
- Laser therapy (CO2 or pulsed dye lasers)
- Micro-punch surgery
- Topical retinoids
- Chemical peels However, these treatments are rarely recommended by doctors as they carry risks of scarring and other side effects, as noted in a study from 2003 2. Most dermatologists advise against treatment since the spots are benign and attempting to remove them can cause more harm than good.
It's worth noting that Fordyce spots occur in up to 80% of adults, as mentioned in a study from 1981 3, and many people have these spots without realizing it. If you're unsure whether bumps are Fordyce spots or something requiring medical attention, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis, as they can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend the best course of action. A more recent study from 2019 1 reported a case of successful treatment of Fordyce spots with a single insulated microneedle radiofrequency device, resulting in marked cosmetic improvements without surface damage, but this treatment is not widely recommended due to the benign nature of the condition.