Fordyce spots are not dangerous, but you need to be alert

Fordyce spots are small, yellowish-white spots that are usually found on the edges of the lips, or the inside of the cheeks. These spots also often cause concern, because they can appear on the penis or scrotum in men, and on the vaginal lips in women. Although rare, these types of spots are also found in the esophagus, cervix, and soles of the feet. Actually Fordyce spots is a normal, harmless and painless condition. Based on research, about 8 out of 10 adults have experienced or still have Fordyce spots on their bodies. In general, these small lumps will disappear by themselves over time.

Where Did Fordyce Spots Come from?

Fordyce spots are enlarged oil (sebaceous) glands. Uniquely, the sebaceous glands are usually around the hairy skin, while Fordyce spots grow in the area of ​​the hairless skin. Usually these spots are about 1-3 millimeters in size. Fordyce spots actually existed long before the existence of these spots was realized, namely from birth. Usually the size of Fordyce spots will enlarge in adolescence or puberty, making it easier to recognize. These spots can appear scattered apart on the skin, cluster in an area of ​​the skin, or can also occur individually. This condition is more potentially experienced by people with oily skin. If you find Fordyce spots in certain parts of your body, do not try to pull or press the spots that appear. Because, that way can cause injury and cause infection.

Fordyce spots around the Intimate Organ

In women, Fordyce spots can appear around the pubic lips. Fordyce spots can also appear around male sex organs, for example in the scrotum and penis shaft. Fordyce spots generally do not require special treatment because they will disappear by themselves over time. But if you want to get rid of spots that appear to improve appearance and increase self-confidence, there are several medical procedures that can be done, including:

• Laser treatment

Your doctor may remove Fordyce spots on your skin using the help of a laser beam. However, in some people, this procedure can leave scar tissue in the skin.

• Micro-punch Surgery

To get rid of Fordyce spots quickly and effectively, doctors can perform micro-punch surgery. This surgery is performed using a medical device that resembles a pen, to even out the skin again, and remove unwanted tissue.

• Topical treatment

Some types of topical medications or topicals used to remove Fordyce spots include vitamin A derivatives, such as topical tretinoin and isotretinoin.

You do not need to worry if you have Fordyce spots on your body, as long as the condition does not interfere with daily activities. However, if the appearance of the spots is disturbing or worrisome, it is advisable to see a doctor to make sure that the spots are harmless.