AnnaMaria
Ever noticed tiny white or yellowish bumps on your lips or private areas and wondered what they were? You’re definitely not the only one.
At first glance, these little spots can feel concerning—especially when they seem to pop up without warning. But the truth is, they’re surprisingly common and totally harmless.
What Fordyce Spots Are Not
Let’s clear this up right away: Fordyce spots are not warts, herpes, pimples, or any kind of infection. They aren’t caused by poor hygiene, and they’re definitely not contagious. So there’s no need to panic or rush to a doctor.
In fact, most dermatologists agree they don’t require treatment unless they’re bothering you for cosmetic reasons. Trying to pop or pick them like acne can actually make things worse by irritating the skin or leaving scars.
So What Are They?
Fordyce spots are simply visible sebaceous (oil) glands that show up on parts of the body without hair—most commonly around the edges of the lips, inside the cheeks, and on the genitals. Normally, these glands are hidden under hair follicles. But in areas without hair, they can be more visible as tiny, pale bumps.
They were first described in the 1800s by dermatologist John Addison Fordyce. Today, it’s estimated that up to 80% of adults have them in one form or another.
Why Do Some People Notice Them More?
Fordyce spots aren’t something you “catch”—they’ve been with you since birth. They usually become more visible during puberty due to hormonal changes that affect oil production. Genetics can play a role too, so if your parents had noticeable Fordyce spots, there’s a good chance you might have them as well.
Rest assured, they have nothing to do with lifestyle, diet, or cleanliness.
Do They Go Away?
While they usually don’t disappear completely, Fordyce spots can become less noticeable over time—especially as your skin changes with age or hormone levels fluctuate. Most of the time, they stay the same and never cause issues.
That said, if you ever notice changes in color, shape, or if they suddenly become irritated or painful, it’s worth checking in with a dermatologist just to rule out other conditions.
Should You Treat Them?
In most cases, treatment isn’t necessary. But if you’re feeling self-conscious, cosmetic options do exist—like laser therapy or prescription creams. Keep in mind, though, that results vary and treatments don’t always offer a permanent fix. Some even carry risks like discoloration or scarring.
That’s why most experts advise against treating Fordyce spots unless they’re truly affecting your confidence or comfort.
When to See a Doctor
If the bumps itch, grow, or start to hurt—or if you’re simply unsure whether what you’re seeing is a Fordyce spot—a dermatologist can provide peace of mind. It’s a quick, routine check, and they’ll likely recognize it right away.
Here’s the Takeaway
Fordyce spots are just one of those things—normal, harmless, and much more common than you’d think. Once you understand what they are, they tend to feel a lot less intimidating.
Nothing you need to treat, nothing to be ashamed of—just a tiny part of being human.
And from there, it’s just a matter of what catches your eye next.
