FORDYCE SPOTS
Fordyce Spots Treatment
Fordyce spots are small, visible sebaceous glands that appear on areas of the body where people typically do not expect to see them—most commonly the lips, genitalia, and sometimes the face. Although completely harmless and medically benign, these spots can cause significant embarrassment, anxiety, and self-consciousness. Many patients have lived with them for years, often believing something is wrong or fearing they resemble an infection.
Fordyce spots are not an STI. They are not contagious, do not pose any medical danger, and do not need treatment for health reasons. However, many patients choose to treat them because of how strongly they can affect aesthetics, intimacy, confidence, and day-to-day self-esteem.
What Are Fordyce Spots?
Fordyce spots are visible enlarged oil glands that sit close to the skin’s surface. Unlike normal sebaceous glands, these glands are not associated with hair follicles, which is why they appear as small, pale or yellowish bumps. They may look like clusters of tiny dots and can be more prominent when the skin is stretched.
Common locations include:
- Lips – upper and lower vermilion border
- Genitalia (men) – shaft of the penis, foreskin, scrotum
- Genitalia (women) – labia majora and labia minora
- Cheeks, inner mouth, and face – less common but possible
Many patients first discover Fordyce spots in their teens or early adulthood, and some spend years researching the appearance online—often becoming worried it could be an STI. This confusion is extremely common, and part of our mission is to educate patients that Fordyce spots are not an infection, not related to sexual activity, and not dangerous.
How We Treat Fordyce Spots
At our practice, we use advanced laser technology to safely and effectively treat Fordyce spots with no downtime, no scarring, and no discomfort. The treatment works by delivering precise energy to each spot, causing the gland to shrink and the overlying skin to smooth. The result is a more even, uniform appearance of the skin.
A Completely Painless Procedure
Before the laser treatment begins, the patient is fully numbed for complete comfort. Because the laser energy targets the surface layers very gently, the procedure is truly 100% painless. Most patients describe the experience as light warmth or nothing at all.
Additional benefits include:
- Extremely fast treatment time (often 10–20 minutes)
- No cutting, puncturing, or invasive techniques
- No downtime — return to normal activities immediately
- No skin damage, scarring, or pigment changes
- Long-lasting aesthetic improvement
How Laser Treatment Works
Fordyce spots respond beautifully to targeted laser therapy. The laser is calibrated to lightly vaporize or coagulate the small overactive sebaceous glands while preserving the surrounding tissue. This allows the area to gradually smooth, reducing both the prominence and overall visibility of the spots.
Depending on the number of spots and the area treated, patients may need a single session or a series of sessions for optimal results. Improvements can usually be seen in the weeks following treatment as the skin remodels.
How Fordyce Spots Can Affect Self-Esteem
Although medically normal, Fordyce spots can impact confidence in profound ways. Patients frequently express:
- Feeling embarrassed during intimacy
- Avoiding certain lighting or close-up photos
- Constantly examining and hiding the affected area
- Fear that others may assume it’s an infection
- Long-term emotional stress or shame
For many, treating Fordyce spots isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about restoring confidence, comfort, and peace of mind. Patients often say that the treatment “changed years of embarrassment” and allowed them to finally feel confident in their own skin again.
Common Misconception: Fordyce Spots vs. STIs
One of the most common concerns is whether Fordyce spots are related to a sexually transmitted infection. The answer is no. They are not caused by bacteria, viruses, sexual contact, or poor hygiene. They are simply a natural anatomical variation.
If you’ve ever searched online and felt worried or confused, you are absolutely not alone. Many patients seek reassurance first and treatment second—both of which we provide.
Who Is a Candidate?
Most patients with visible Fordyce spots are excellent candidates, including those with:
- Clusters of visible bumps on the lips, face, or genitals
- Spots that have become more noticeable over time
- Uneven skin texture caused by enlarged sebaceous glands
- Low confidence or emotional distress relating to appearance
Laser treatment is safe for all skin types and tones, and we always tailor your plan to your individual anatomy and concerns.
Transform Your Confidence
If you’ve lived with Fordyce spots for years, laser treatment offers a fast and effective solution with virtually no discomfort. Our goal is not only to improve the appearance of your skin but also to help you feel more confident, comfortable, and empowered.
If you're ready to take the next step, you can schedule your consultation below.