HomeAnswersDermatologyfordyce spotsWhy do I have a few small light bumps on my penis that are not painful?

What is the cause and management of small light bumps on the penis that are not painful?

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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.

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Published At January 14, 2023
Reviewed AtJanuary 18, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have had a few small light bumps on the skin on the right shaft of my penis for many months. They are slightly raised but do not hurt or itch. I have never had an STD, and I have tested negative. I wash with regular soap and water daily but do not use lotion. What might these bumps be? How to improve the appearance?

Please help.

Thanks and regards.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

As per the images and the history provided (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), it appears to be Fordyce spots on the penile shaft. These spots are basically due to sebaceous glands (glands that secrete sebum or oil ) present under the skin that appear prominently in some areas, including private areas, lips, and mouth. They are most often seen on the mucosal areas of the body. They are completely harmless and most often devoid of symptoms unless they cause irritation due to frequent picking of the spots or using harsh soaps and disinfectants to cleanse the area excessively. They may aggravate due to stress, climate conditions, dietary factors, etc. They usually fade off in a few years and do not require any treatment. There is no need to worry. Although they are harmless and do not require any intervention, they may be cosmetically bothersome. Some medications may be applied, but I would not advise them as they can irritate the penile skin due to being a very sensitive part. So, I suggest you the following instructions mentioned below,

1. Do lukewarm salt water (salt mixed in lukewarm water) fomentation once daily for ten minutes.

2. Use any mild soap to cleanse the area. Make sure the soap is lathered well before application. Leave for two mins and wash off.

3. Use any body lotion or moisturizer to keep the area hydrated. Make sure to use only a minimal quantity of the available moisturizer.

4. Take a tablet of Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) 500 milligrams twice daily after food for two months. They help with reducing excess oil secretion.

5. Make sure to avoid extremely hot food, drinks, or milk during consumption of this medication as they may cause abdominal discomfort for some individuals.

6. Avoid wearing tight-fitting undergarments and make sure the area is well-ventilated daily.

7. Consume at least 3.5 liters of water, amounting to 13 to 14 glasses per day.

8. Avoid oily and fried food, sweets, red meat, milk, and dairy products. Consume more fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods.

9. There are various interventional modalities of treatment, including laser therapy (carbon dioxide lasers), ablative lasers, cryotherapy (freezing of the spots), cauterization (burning of the spots under topical anesthesia), surgical excision, photodynamic therapy, which may be considered if they are cosmetically bothersome. A dermatologist does them at a clinic.

I also advise you not to worry about these spots as they may also be commonly seen among young individuals like yourself, as sebum secretion are usually more among them. They are not STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) and are part of normal skin. I advise avoiding picking the spots or attempting to express the contents as they may cause irritation and secondary infections.

I hope this has helped you.

Kindly consult a specialist, talk with them, and take medicines with their consent.

Thanks and regards.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

How often should the moisturizer be applied? Is there a specific cosmetic solution if the spots do not disappear on their own?

Please help.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I suggest the following,

1. Moisturizers may be used once daily in a thin layer.

2. CO2 laser for reducing the appearance of the Fordyce spots.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thanks for replying.

I had a few additional questions. Can the Fordyce spots occur in just one spot? Also, I was wondering why they are only visible with an erection. Last, should I avoid activities like masturbation or sex?

Please help.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Fordyce spots may be single or multiple and may be widespread or present in clusters as well. They are most often asymptomatic. They are visible during erection due to the stretching of the skin, making them more visible. I suggest you do not avoid any sexual activities.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you again for replying.

I had been worrying about the spots for a while, and your reassurance has put me at ease. I will follow your recommendations.

Thank you

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Have a great day.

Thanks and regards.

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

Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty
Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty

Venereology

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