Fordyce granules on the lips: what are they and how can they be removed with a laser?
- Mar 24
- 4 min read
Fordyce granules on the lips are a common skin condition that often causes significant aesthetic concern despite being a benign condition.
In this article, together with Dr. Uskov, we will examine what Fordyce granules on the lips are and which modern removal methods are used at the Dr Uskov's clinic
What are Fordyce granules?
Fordyce granules are ectopically located sebaceous glands that become visible on the surface of the skin or mucous membrane. They most commonly appear on the lips as small whitish, yellowish, or flesh-colored spots.
It is important to emphasize:
Fordyce granules are not a disease
They are not contagious
They are not associated with infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
They do not undergo malignant transformation
Nevertheless, due to their localization on the lips, they can significantly affect appearance and self-confidence.
One of our patients before and after laser treatment:
The presented image shows the treatment outcome in a patient with a pronounced cluster of Fordyce granules on the upper lip. Prior to presentation at the clinic, the spots were visibly noticeable, and caused significant aesthetic discomfort, particularly given their localization in the vermilion zone of the lip.
The patient’s history includes multiple attempts to conceal the granules using permanent makeup. This approach not only failed to provide a satisfactory aesthetic result but also worsened the visual appearance of the area due to uneven pigment distribution and accentuation of the mucosal relief. This is a typical scenario encountered in patients attempting to mask Fordyce granules with cosmetic methods rather than pursuing medical treatment.
At Dr Uskov's Clinic, laser removal of Fordyce granules was performed with individually tailored parameters, taking into account the anatomical features of the lips, the depth of the sebaceous glands, and the sensitivity of the area. The procedure was applied in a very targeted manner, without traumatizing the surrounding tissues.
The final outcome shows:
removal of the majority of Fordyce granules
no damage to the vermilion mucosa
restoration of the natural anatomical pattern of the lips
smooth texture and uniform tissue color
An important note, that after healing, there is no scarring, pigment alteration or deformation of the lip contour. This confirms that, with proper laser technique and medical supervision, the lip area can be treated safely and predictably.
This clinical case clearly demonstrates that Fordyce granules on the lips are difficult to camouflage but respond well to medical correction. Laser removal allows for an aesthetically natural result without aggressive intervention and with a minimal recovery period.
Why do Fordyce granules appear on the lips?
Mainly because the lips are an area with thin skin and a high concentration of sebaceous glands. The most common factors that make the granules noticeable include:
hormonal changes
genetic predisposition
increased activity of sebaceous glands
age-related changes in the skin
Over time, the spots may become more pronounced, which often prompts patients to seek medical consultation.
Do you have to treat Fordyce granules?
From a medical standpoint, treatment is not mandatory. However, from an aesthetic perspective, many patients seek to have them removed.
Important note: creams, ointments, and “home remedies” do not provide a lasting effect, and physically trying to remove the spots will result in short lasting or worsening of the spots.
Nowadays the safest and most effective treatment for Fordyce spots is professional laser treatment.
Laser removal of Fordyce granules
Laser removal is a modern, controlled, and minimally invasive correction method.
How it works:
The laser acts in a targeted manner, vaporizing excess sebaceous gland tissue without damaging surrounding structures. This is especially important for a delicate area such as the lips.
Advantages of laser removal
high precision
minimal tissue trauma
absence of scarring with proper technique
rapid recovery period
pronounced aesthetic result
For these reasons, an increasing number of patients choose laser removal to address Fordyce granules on the lips.
How are procedures performed at Dr Uskov's clinic?
At Dr Uskov Kliinik, the procedure is performed according to international medical standards using individual approaches to each patient.
Stages:
consultation and examination
assessment of the lips and the visual aspect of the granules
laser treatment with prior application of a topical anesthetic cream (the procedure typically takes 5–10 minutes)
post-procedure care instructions
The procedure is performed at the clinic, without hospitalization.
Recovery after the procedure:
After the procedure, there could be mild redness, slight swelling and formation of small crusts.
Recovery usually takes a few days, after which the lips appear smooth and natural.
When post-procedure instructions are followed, the risk of complications is minimal.
Why is it important that the procedure is done by a medical professional?
The lip area is more sensitive than most skin and requires experience in working with lasers, understanding of the anatomy and precise adjustment of energy settings.
Improper treatment can result in pigmentation changes or scarring. Therefore, Fordyce granules should be removed with a laser only in a medical clinic, not in cosmetic salons without medical supervision.
In conclusion
Fordyce granules on the lips are a harmless but often an aesthetically undesirable condition. Modern laser medicine allows for effective and precise removal, achieving a natural result while preserving skin health.
If the appearance of your lips is a concern, a consultation with one of our specialists can help determine the most appropriate solution.
