Fordyce spots are tiny, raised, pale or yellowish bumps that often appear along the vermilion border of your lips. They’re simply ectopic sebaceous glands—oil–producing glands in places where hair follicles don’t exist. Although completely benign and asymptomatic, their appearance can cause cosmetic concern and self-consciousness.

Why Fordyce Spots Form

• Hormonal shifts: Puberty and adult hormone fluctuations stimulate sebaceous glands, making them more prominent.
• Genetics: A family tendency influences how many and how visible these glands become.
• Normal anatomy: Unlike cold sores or warts, Fordyce spots aren’t infections, contagious, or linked to poor hygiene.

Non-Medical Approaches

Most experts agree that no treatment is medically necessary. Over time, spots may become less noticeable as skin texture and oil production change. If you prefer to minimize their look at home:

• Gentle oil massage: Applying a few drops of coconut or olive oil can help soften spots and improve lip texture.
• Exfoliation: Light scrubs or low-strength chemical peels (e.g., lactic or salicylic acid) used sparingly can reduce buildup and slightly flatten bumps.
• Sun protection: Daily SPF lip balm prevents discoloration and keeps skin tone even.

Professional Removal Techniques

When home care isn’t enough, dermatologists offer several in-office procedures:

• Electrocautery Uses a fine, heated tip to cauterize glandular tissue. Ideal for small clusters; recovery is fast (5–7 days of scabbing).
• CO₂ Laser Vaporization A precise laser beam ablates spots layer by layer. Suited for larger or dense areas; healing typically takes 7–14 days with minimal scarring.
• Pulsed Dye or Erbium Lasers Target blood vessels or superficial tissue to shrink glands. These options can reduce redness while evening lip texture.
• Microdermabrasion Mechanical exfoliation smooths the lip surface over several sessions, gradually softening spots.
• Cryotherapy Freezing glandular tissue with liquid nitrogen destroys spots; careful application is key to avoid pigment changes.
• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) A light-activated chemical makes spots more vulnerable to laser or light treatment, enhancing precision.

Healing and Aftercare

• Keep the area clean and dry. Gently cleanse with saline or a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
• Apply a thin layer of prescribed healing ointment (e.g., petroleum jelly or antibiotic gel) to prevent cracking and infection.
• Avoid picking or peeling scabs. Let them fall off naturally to minimize scarring.
• Use a broad-spectrum lip sunscreen once healing begins to prevent discoloration.
• Stick to soft, non-irritating foods during the first week post-treatment, such as yogurt, smoothies, and congee.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Consult a dermatologist if you notice:

• Rapid changes in size, color, or number of spots
• Pain, bleeding, or signs of infection
• Any uncertainty about the diagnosis (to rule out cold sores, warts, or other lesions)