Fordyce Spots Treatment

As Fordyce spots are a normal part of the anatomy, there is no need to remove them or “cure” them. However, if removal is desired for cosmetic reasons, this can be achieved by a number of methods such as hyfrecation or laser therapy. Those with multiple lesions they wish to remove may need prolonged and numerous treatments depending on the number of lesions. Whilst removal generally makes the lesions less visible, and it is possible for the lesions to be removed entirely, in some cases, the lesions will never be invisible.

Whilst Fordyce spots are harmless and normal, their presence can cause marked psychological distress. Their appearance can be perceived as unsightly, or they may be mistaken for a sexually transmitted infection which can cause significant stigma. People who are distressed by Fordyce spots may feel having them removed improves their self-esteem, confidence, and overall sex life.

No. There are no home remedies that have been shown to be effective at removing Fordyce spots. If you have Fordyce spots, it’s highly discouraged to attempt any home remedies, including physical removal, burning, squeezing or “popping” the spots, or applying any over-the-counter remedies.

You should be mindful of general genital health, keeping your genitals clean using a fragrance-free soap or soap substitute. If you notice any new lesions on your genitals, it’s important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

If you have had unprotected sex, it’s important to consider the possibility of sexually transmitted infection.

No. Fordyce spots are not a disease, infection, or a sexually transmitted infection. Fordyce spots are simply a normal dermatological occurrence, and can be present in people of all ages.

However if you are at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it is important to be regularly tested to rule out infections that may look similar to fordyce spots.

No. Fordyce spots are not infectious; therefore, you cannot spread them to your partner.

Whilst it is only really after seeing you that we can make sure that you’re eligible for treatment, submitting our questionnaire (with pictures) will give us a very good idea.

Absolutely. We sometimes do patients who have had laser treatment in the past requiring further treatment due to unsatisfactory outcome or recurrence. Hyfrecation treatment can be safely performed in such patients with excellent results.

We can see patients from the age of 18 and above at our clinic.

Occasionally, patient may have one of the following conditions affecting the penile skin which needs to addressed before undertaking the hyfrecation treatment:

• Infection of the surrounding skin
• An outbreak of genital herpes
• Localised active Inflammatory conditions of the penile skin (for example, eczema)
• If you suffer from diabetes, and your sugar levels are out of control
• If you suffer from hypertension, and your Blood Pressure is not controlled

We recommend that you do the following before your appointment:

• You have a shower on the day of your appointment, to reduce the risk of infection
• Most people who attend the treatment are able to drive back home themselves
• Avoid undertaking heavy physical activities (work, gym) for 48 hours after the procedure

You should be able to return to your normal day after the procedure, as long as your job is not physically demanding.

Yes. You can bring your partner, friend or family member to your appointment.

However, if you feel that you would rather not bring someone to the appointment, rest assured that our staff are here to support you and make you comfortable in any way possible. Clarewell Clinics is a safe space.

You do not need to make any special arrangements for after your procedure. However, if you would feel more comfortable, you may request a family member/friend/partner to accompany you on the way home.

After you have arrived for your appointment, we will invite you in for the initial consultation.

Once we have reviewed your lesions, we will proceed to prepare you for the procedure (as long as you have booked in for same day treatment). This will involve going through the consent form, taking any pre-procedure pictures and applying the numbing cream in privacy.

After letting the numbing cream settle for approx. 15-20 minutes, we will check to make sure the area is numb and then continue to burn the lesions.

After the procedure, we will offer you aftercare advice and give you an aftercare pack with some items to help with the recovery.

Almost all of our patients find treatment of Fordyce spots with hyfrecation painless. Your clinician will confirm the total numbness of skin before undertaking the procedure.

Yes, absolutely you can. Please let us know at the time of your booking (or upon your arrival) so that we are ready to accommodate your wishes.

Though, in all honesty, you will probably be joking and laughing with your clinician during the procedure and the procedure will be over before you realise.

You may experience a little soreness at the operated site. This is completely normal and some standard painkillers can help with this.

We recommend all patients have a thorough read of the information above as it will help with key questions.

If you think that something is wrong, please request a follow up call by contacting our clinic.

It’s advised to abstain from sex and avoid masturbation until healing is complete (approx. 1 week). Having intercourse during the healing process can increase the risk of infection, scarring or bleeding.

All patients are offered a follow-up appointment within 4 weeks after their main procedure (not the patch test). This is to ensure that all the lesions have been treated and that you are happy with the procedure.

This will also give you a chance to ask any further questions that you may have.