Noticing Strange White Bumps on Your Skin? Here’s What They Really Are
If you’ve been paying close attention to your body lately, you might have spotted some tiny white bumps—often around your lips, or even in more private areas.
We understand your curiosity (and maybe concern), and we’re here to clear things up for you, dear reader.
These little bumps tend to appear most commonly on the lips and genital areas. Naturally, this can raise alarm bells—are they a rash? An infection? Something contagious that’s messing with your Willy Wonka or your lady parts?
Take a deep breath—there’s good news.
These bumps are typically completely harmless. In fact, they’re a totally normal part of human anatomy, and most people have them somewhere on their body.
What Are These White Bumps? Meet the Fordyce Spot
In the medical world, these harmless little lumps are known as Fordyce spots, named after Dr. John Addison Fordyce, the American dermatologist who first documented them back in 1896.
(Imagine dedicating your life to science and ending up famous for spots on people’s private parts—such is the legacy of dermatology!)
So, what exactly are they?
Fordyce spots are simply sebaceous (oil) glandsthat show up a bit more visibly than usual. They release sebum, a natural oily substance that helps protect and moisturize your skin.
Where can they appear? These spots often show up:
- Around the lips
- Inside the cheeks
- On the genitals—including the penis, foreskin, scrotum, or the labia
While their appearance might spark concern, especially in more sensitive areas, rest assured—they’re completely normal, harmless, and not contagious.
The Cleveland Clinic even points out that Fordyce spots are not related to any illness or sexually transmitted infection (STI), despite sometimes being mistaken for conditions like milium cysts, epidermoid cysts, genital warts, or even herpes.
No Need to Panic—Fordyce Spots Are Totally Normal
According to medical sources like the Cleveland Clinic, the presence of Fordyce spots in these areas is completely normal and, importantly, not contagious. Still, it’s easy to see why they might cause concern—especially since genital warts, among other conditions, can initially look quite similar.
Let’s be honest: anything unexpected happening to your most private parts can feel a little alarming. But before you start spiraling, here’s some reassurance—your body isn’t malfunctioning.
Sure, if you’re feeling anxious or uncertain, it’s always okay to check in with a doctor. Peace of mind is worth it. That said, there’s usually no need to stress over a few tiny bumps. The truth is, the human body is full of odd little textures—lumps, bumps, and everything in between.
We’re not all airbrushed movie stars under our clothes—and that’s perfectly okay.
Though Fordyce spots are not a sign of any illness, and you can’t catch them from someone else, it’s still smart to get a professional opinion if you suspect what you’re seeing might be something else.
And remember—you’re far from alone. In fact, over 80% of people have Fordyce spots. It’s just one more example of how our bodies are unique, natural, and often, more normal than we think.
