If you’ve been inspecting your body closely, you might have noticed some small, white pimple-like bumps—often near your lips or in more intimate areas—and wondered what they are.
Well, you’re not alone, and we’re here to clear up the mystery.
These bumps most commonly show up around the lips and genitals, and they can easily be mistaken for something more concerning—like a rash, an infection, or even a sexually transmitted disease. It’s normal to panic a little when something unusual pops up on your most private parts.
But here’s the good news: these bumps are completely harmless and very common.
They’re called Fordyce spots, named after American dermatologist Dr. John Addison Fordyce, who first described them in 1896. (Imagine dedicating your life to medicine and forever being associated with harmless little spots on lips and genitals.)
Fordyce spots are simply visible sebaceous (oil) glands that produce sebum, a natural oil that helps protect your skin. These glands are usually hidden beneath the skin, but in some places—like the lips, the inner cheeks, the shaft of the penis, the scrotum, or the labia—they can become visible.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Fordyce spots are not a disease and not contagious. While they can resemble other skin conditions—such as milium cysts, genital warts, or herpes—they’re entirely benign. In fact, many people confuse them with more serious conditions, especially in the genital area, which naturally causes concern.
But don’t worry: having Fordyce spots is perfectly normal. In fact, over 80% of people have them somewhere on their body.
That said, if you’re ever unsure or the spots change in appearance, it’s wise to consult a healthcare provider—just to be safe. But generally, there’s no need to be alarmed or embarrassed. Our bodies are full of natural variations, bumps, and textures.
So, if you’ve spotted these little white dots and feared the worst, take a breath—they’re a normal part of being human. Movie stars might look flawless on screen, but in reality, nobody’s perfectly smooth.
