Fordyce spots are a major cause of concern for both sexes who suffer from it. Considering that they appear on the genitals and on the lips and mouth, sufferers always think they have a sexually transmitted disease when they first notice the spots. This not only leads to avoidance of sexual activity but also depression.
But what exactly are these Fordyce spots? What causes them? What are their symptoms? How can they be treated? Continue reading to find the answers to these questions and much more:
Continue reading to find the answers to these questions and much more:
What Are Fordyce Spots?
They are small raised bumps that are usually found in clusters on the lips, penis shaft, testicles and vulva. The condition affects an estimated 70-80% of the population and is more common in men than women.
The spots which measure 1mm to 3mm can appear in different colors including whitish, yellowish, pale red or the same color as the skin. The spots are usually not itchy or painful, but they may bleed after sexual activity, injury or irritation. Since they occur naturally, treatment is usually not required unless a person has cosmetic concerns.
What Causes Fordyce Spots?
These spots are believed to be caused by sebum, the natural oil of the skin. Normally, sebaceous glands produce sebum into the hair follicles to lubricate the skin. However, in the case of Fordyce spots, no hair follicles are available, which means there’s no way for the body to discharge its natural oil secretions. This causes the raised bumps. Note that the spots naturally occur when one is born. However, they usually appear much later in life, especially during puberty. Because of this, it is believed that the risk of getting the condition tends to increase with age. It is also more noticeable in individuals with greasy skin types, as well as those with rheumatic disorders.
Fordyce Spots Symptoms
Here are the major symptoms to look out for:
Small, Raised Rice-Like Granules Fordyce spots can appear on the genitals (the labia, skin of the scrotum, shaft of the penis and testicles), inside the mouth and on the lips. The spots are usually raised and resemble small rice grains, measuring between 1mm and 3mm.
The spots are more noticeable when the skin is stretched. On the penis for instance, they may only be noticed during an erection. Yellow, White, Pinkish Or Skin Colored The spots manifest themselves in different colors. They can be whitish, yellowish, reddish or the same color as the skin. Appear As Single Spots Or In Clusters The spots can sometimes appear as single spots. However, mostly they are found in clusters of 50 and above. Not Painful The granules are mostly painless, but can be itchy at times, especially after sexual intercourse. They can also bleed after an injury or irritation.
Fordyce Treatments Available
Fordyce spots are natural, benign and usually disappear by themselves over time. Since these spots are harmless, many doctors usually don’t recommend any form of treatment. However, if you find them embarrassing or unattractive, there are different treatment options available to help decrease the distinction of the spots. Let’s look at some of them:
1. Surgical Procedures Punch Excision
This is one of the most effective methods of treating these spots with minimal chance of reoccurrence. Punch excision is done by a trained medical professional or dermatologist under local anaesthetic. It involves using a machine to make 1-2mm holes in the skin where the spots are, after which they are manually removed and every hole stitched. Because of the stitching, there’s a significant chance of scarring with this procedure.
2. Cauterization
Cauterization is performed by a trained medical professional or dermatologist under a local anaesthetic. In this procedure, an electrically heated Hyfrecator instrument is applied to the spots to burn them away. Usually, just one session is required to get rid of them. After treatment, you can take up to two weeks to heal completely. It is very fast and less costly compared to other surgical methods. However, just like punch excision, there’s a risk of scarring with this surgical procedure.
3. Laser Vaporization
Laser is another effective and safe treatment option for these spots with minimal risks of scarring. However, since multiple treatment sessions are required, it can be costly in the long run. The best results have been attained by using CO2 laser vaporization. This type of laser is very precise, which matters a lot when dealing with the small granules of this condition, especially around the lips and mouth. Other patients have also found success using pulsed dye laser – a type of laser normally used in treating sebaceous gland hyperplasia.
Natural Ways (Top 5 Natural Remedies)
Natural Ways Other than surgical procedures, there are natural remedies which you can use to get rid of these spots. Here are the top 5 you should consider:
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Drink More Water
Many studies have found out that people with higher than normal fat levels in their blood have a higher risk of getting Fordyce spots. Drinking more water not only helps to keep you body hydrated and your organs functioning properly, but also reduces the fat levels in your blood, consequently reducing the spots. The recommended daily water intake for adults is 2 liters.
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Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer, which greatly helps in treating the Fordyce spots. Since spotting can occur due to dehydration, applying coconut oil mixed with your favorite essential oil cal go along way in reducing the spots of your skin.
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Increase Your Vitamin Intake
Another way to get rid of these spots naturally is by increasing your intake of foods rich in vitamins. Consider eating broccoli, oranges and other vitamin-rich foods to reduce the spots, boost your immunity and keep your skin in peak condition.
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Garlic
Garlic remains of the best home remedies for a wide variety of problems, including Fordyce spots. It contains antioxidants that remove free radicals from the body and shrinks the spots. You can mix this spice with food, or drink boiled water with garlic drips for an immediate effect.
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Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera gel has both antifungal and antibacterial properties that help to treat the spots. It’s recommended to apply the gel directly on the inflamed skin.
Overall, Fordyce spots are naturally occurring raised bumps on the skin. It can affect both men and women and is mostly found on the lips, penis, vulva and scrotum. This condition is harmless and mostly painless and can go away naturally. However, there are several treatment options you can use to get rid of them if they make you self-conscious or uncomfortable. If you suspect that you have the spots, it is very important that you first visit a doctor for a professional diagnosis. He or she will be able to examine you and recommend the best treatment options for you.
Also Read: How to Get Rid of Fordyce Spots: Conventional Treatment And Natural Remedies