HomeAnswersDermatologycigarette smokingI am a smoker with white spots on the edge of my lips. Could it be Fordyce spots?

What could be the reason for white spots on the edge of the lips in a smoker?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Suvash Sahu

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At August 24, 2023
Reviewed AtJanuary 29, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have white spots on the edge of my lips. They have been there for quite some time. I do not have any discomfort. I read online that they could be Fordyce spots. I just wanted an opinion and possible treatment to get rid of them. I have a history of smoking and type 2 diabetes. I am not under any medication for diabetes and it is under control.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Suvash Sahu

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and examined your pictures (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity).

It may be milia, herpes, or Fox-Fordyce spots.

I would like you to answer a few questions mentioned below.

  1. How long are you having this?
  2. Do you have any burning sensation?
  3. Do you have any fever associated with this?

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I am having this for a few weeks or maybe a few months. I do not have any fever or burning sensation.

Answered by Dr. Suvash Sahu

Hello,

Glad to have you back!

I am here to help you get the best medical advice.

It looks more like a milia. It is a tiny cyst containing keratin. I suggest you apply Tretinoin (Retinoic acid) 0.025% cream on the affected area during the night.

Kindly consult a specialist, talk to them, and start using the medication with their consent.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

So it is nothing to be worried about? I just wanted to make sure everything is fine. And how much time will it take for the spots to go away?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Suvash Sahu

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Fordyce spots over both the lip mucosa and corners of the lip are benign and physiological. So there is nothing to worry about.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Suvash Sahu
Dr. Suvash Sahu

Dermatology

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