If you’ve ever noticed small white bumps around your lips or other areas of your body, you might be wondering what they are. Rest assured, these tiny spots are completely normal and harmless.
The most common areas where they appear are the lips and genital regions, which can sometimes cause concern. You might worry they’re a rash, an infection, or even a contagious condition affecting your private parts.
However, these bumps—known as Fordyce spots—are a natural part of the human body, and most people have them somewhere.
What Are Fordyce Spots?
Named after Dr. John Addison Fordyce, an American dermatologist who identified them in 1896, these spots are actually oil glands. They produce sebum, a natural oil that helps protect the skin.
Fordyce spots can appear on various parts of the body, including:
- The lips and the inside of the cheeks
- The edges of the mouth
- The penis, foreskin, or scrotum
- The labia of the vagina
The Cleveland Clinic emphasizes that Fordyce spots are not a disease, nor are they sexually transmitted. While they may resemble conditions like milium cysts, epidermoid cysts, genital warts, or even herpes, they are completely harmless and non-contagious.
“The appearance of Fordyce spots in these areas is normal, and they aren’t contagious,” the clinic states. However, it does note that genital warts may initially look similar to Fordyce spots, so it’s understandable why some people might be concerned.
Should You Be Worried?
Finding unexpected bumps—especially in intimate areas—can be unsettling. But there’s no reason to panic. Fordyce spots are not a symptom of any illness and cannot be spread to others.
If you’re still concerned, visiting a doctor can provide reassurance, especially if you notice any changes or if you suspect the spots might be something else. But for most people, these little bumps are just part of being human—our bodies aren’t as flawlessly smooth as movie stars make them seem.
In fact, over 80% of people have Fordyce spots, so if you have them, you’re far from alone.
