The Cause of Odd White Bumps on Your Body
If you’ve ever noticed small white bumps around your lips or other parts of your body, you may have wondered if they were a rash, an infection, or even something contagious. The truth is far less alarming: in most cases, these bumps are a normal and harmless condition known as Fordyce spots.
What Are Fordyce Spots?
Fordyce spots are small, raised bumps that commonly appear on the:
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Lips and the corners of the mouth
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Inside of the cheeks
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Genital area (penis, scrotum, foreskin, or labia)
They were first described in 1896 by dermatologist Dr. John Addison Fordyce, who lent his name to the condition. In reality, these bumps are simply sebaceous (oil) glands that release sebum, the natural oil that helps protect and moisturize your skin.
Why They’re Often Confused with Other Conditions
Because of their appearance, Fordyce spots are sometimes mistaken for:
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Milium cysts
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Epidermoid cysts
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Genital warts
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Herpes lesions
This resemblance can understandably cause anxiety, especially when they appear in intimate areas. However, unlike the conditions above, Fordyce spots are not sexually transmitted, not contagious, and not dangerous.
What the Experts Say
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the presence of Fordyce spots is entirely normal. They are considered a natural variation of human anatomy, and more than 80% of people will notice them at some point in their lives.
Should You See a Doctor?
While Fordyce spots don’t require treatment, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure whether the bumps you have are truly harmless. A doctor can rule out other skin conditions that may look similar but need medical attention.
The Bottom Line
Fordyce spots may look unusual, but they are a normal feature of the human body—not a disease, not an infection, and not something you can “catch.” If you have them, you’re in very good company.
The human body is full of small imperfections, and these tiny bumps are just one of many reminders that we’re not all as airbrushed as movie stars.