Noticing small bumps on the genitals or lips can be worrying. One common and harmless cause is Fordyce spots.
This guide explains what they are, why they occur, and what you can do at home to care for the skin.
What are Fordyce Spots?
Fordyce spots are small, painless, pale or skin-coloured bumps that appear on the penis, scrotum, labia, or the vermilion border of the lips (where the lip meets facial skin).
They represent visible sebaceous (oil) glands, which are normally present beneath the skin but become more noticeable in some people.
- They are not infectious or inflammatory.
- They are not linked to poor hygiene or sexual activity.
- They are completely harmless and considered a normal anatomical variant.
What Causes Fordyce Spots?
Fordyce spots are present from birth, but tend to become visible after puberty, when hormonal changes enlarge sebaceous glands.
There is no underlying disease or external cause—they simply reflect normal variation in the way skin develops and secretes natural oils.
Do Fordyce Spots Need Treatment?
In almost all cases, no medical treatment is required. Fordyce spots are a normal finding and do not pose any health risk. Treatment is only considered when someone finds them cosmetically distressing or wishes to reduce their visibility.
Fordyce Spots – Home Treatment: What You Can Do
While home remedies cannot remove Fordyce spots entirely, good skin care can help maintain healthy skin and minimise irritation:
- Gentle Hygiene – Wash daily with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps or scrubbing.
- Moisturising – Apply a bland emollient or fragrance-free moisturiser to reduce dryness.
- Avoid Picking or Squeezing – This can cause inflammation, infection, or scarring.
- Healthy Lifestyle – A balanced diet, hydration, regular exercise, and adequate sleep support general skin health.
- Acceptance – Understanding that Fordyce spots are normal can often ease cosmetic concerns.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Book a consultation with a specialist if:
- You’re uncertain about the diagnosis—other conditions (e.g., molluscum contagiosum, sebaceous hyperplasia, or genital warts) can look similar.
- The bumps are painful, itchy, red, or discharge-producing.
- Their appearance causes significant anxiety or distress.
- You are considering medical removal for cosmetic reasons.
Our team at Clarewell Clinics offers both in-person and online genital dermatology consultations.
You can start by completing our Pre-Appointment Questionnaire.
Medical Treatments for Fordyce Spots
If desired, Fordyce spots can be treated safely and effectively under clinical supervision.
Available options include:
- Hyfrecation – Offered at Clarewell Clinics. Uses a controlled electric current to remove surface tissue under local anaesthetic, with minimal downtime.
- Laser Therapy – Certain dermatological lasers can reduce the visibility of sebaceous glands.
- Topical Treatments – Occasionally, prescription creams may help lessen prominence, though results vary.
Each method carries potential risks (e.g., mild redness, temporary pigmentation change), which your clinician will discuss in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Support and Reassurance at Clarewell Clinics
It’s normal to feel self-conscious about any change in intimate areas. At Clarewell Clinics, we provide:
- Accurate diagnosis of genital and oral skin conditions
- Confidential, compassionate care
- Evidence-based treatment options when desired
If you’re concerned about Fordyce spots or other skin changes, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We offer online and face-to-face consultations to help you understand your skin and feel comfortable in your body.
