BEAUTY
The Difference Between Fordyce Spots And Milia Explained
By MONICA GILL
Fordyce spots and Milia are two skin conditions that may seem indistinguishable to the human eye, but they occur for unrelated reasons and require different treatments.
Fordyce spots are enlarged sebaceous (oil) glands that form in clusters, while Milia is a type of benign cyst that occurs when keratin builds up under the skin.
Appearing in clusters of white or flesh-colored raised bumps, Fordyce spots can be found on the border of your lips, inside of your cheeks, nipples, and sometimes the genital area.
Unlike Milia and other gland-related conditions, Fordyce spots only crop up in areas that lack hair. They are entirely harmless and can’t be spread to others.
Milia, or milk spots, are tiny white-yellow cysts that form due to dead skin cells or keratin buildup. They can be anywhere, but most often on the face around the eyes and cheeks.
While they often resolve on their own, you can apply a warm compress to help them disappear. Your dermatologist can provide a topical exfoliant for stubborn spots.