What Causes Fordyce Spots? 6 Common Causes (You Should Know)

Age

Fordyce spots are present at birth in most individuals but typically appear more around puberty. Up to 70 to 80 percent of individuals may develop Fordyce spots. They usually appear in person while they are in their early 20s. With age, your chances of developing them increase.

Fordyce spots often form one- to three-millimeter, whitish-yellow lumps that most frequently develop in skin regions without hair follicles. According to research published in the Clinical Case Reports and Reviews journal, Fordyce spots are twice as common in men as in women.

Another treatment for Fordyce spots is isotretinoin. The medication is a retinoid type derived initially from vitamin A and is frequently used to treat acne. Due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, Fordyce spots and other skin disorders such as scarring may be successfully treated.

Isotretinoin is often taken orally, but if used excessively or in improper situations, there is a danger of adverse effects. Side effects include headaches, muscle pain, dry mouth or throat, and skin problems like itching or rashes.