White Bumps On Lips: Types, Causes, Symptoms, & Home Remedies

What Causes White Bumps On Lips?

The sebaceous glandsⁱ  XSmall glands located near the second layer of the skin that produce a waxy substance called sebum, which moisturizes the skin. in the body. ” ]builds up on the lips when secreted abnormally and serves as a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. This can inflame the surrounding skin and cause white bumps.

The most common causes of white bumps on lips include:

• Hormonal imbalances (1)
• Poor personal hygiene (2)
• Allergic response to ingredients and products (anecdotal evidence)
• An injury to the area (3)
• Genetics (Anecdotal evidence)

Let us look at some of the most common conditions that may cause white bumps on lips. Keep reading.

Types Of White Bumps On Lips

1. Fordyce Spots

These are clusters of tiny white or yellow patches on or around the lips. These patches fade away with time and are neither contagious nor painful. These are enlarged sebaceous glands and occur mostly on vermilion (the red part of the lips) and oral mucosa. These also may occur on the penis, scrotum, and labia, though they are less common. The condition is mostly observed in middle-aged and elderly individuals (4). A study suggests that individuals with an elevated lipid profile may have the highest score of Fordyce spots (5).

2. Milia

These are benign (not harmful) and transient white cysts of keratinⁱ  XA structural protein produced by the body that is responsible for forming the nails, hair, and epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin). (a protein) on the skin. Dead skin cells get trapped under the skin and form cysts. These cysts are common in infants and develop on the face (usually on the nose, chin, cheeks, or along the boundary of the lips). Milia are classified into two types — primary milia and secondary milia. Lesions of some milia fade away on their own while others don’t. However, they can be treated with simple surgical interventions and topical retinoids (6).

3. Oral Thrush

It is an infection caused by the accumulation of the Candida albicans fungus in the mouth. It affects the oral mucosa and is also referred to as oral candidiasis or oropharyngeal candidiasis (7). It is characterized by white or yellowish bumps on the inside of the cheeks, lips, and tongue.

4. Canker Sores

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These are inflammatory white-reddish patches (mouth ulcers) on the mucous membrane lining the mouth. Usually, two to four canker sores develop at the same time. Many people start to get them when they are teens or young adults. These are more common in women than in men.

Canker sores are painful but not contagious and fade away within a week or so. Stress, oral injuries, and foods like coffee, peanuts, and tomatoes can trigger them (8), (9).

5. Mucoceles

Mucoceles are the most common lesions of the oral mucosa. These are caused by the accumulation of mucus secretion due to trauma, lip-biting tendencies, or changes in minor salivary glands. These occur anywhere in the oral mucosa, including the lips (most common), cheeks, and mouth (10).

6. Oral Cancer

It is characterized by a flat white bump in the mouth caused by a variety of factors, including excess exposure to the sun, excess alcohol intake, tobacco use, and the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a viral infection that is spread through skin-to-skin contact (11).

Some types of white bumps that occur on the lips can be managed with simple home remedies. Scroll down to know more about them.

How To Treat White Bumps On Lips

1. Garlic

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Garlic contains antimicrobialⁱ  XThe ability of an agent to stop the growth of microorganisms in the body, thereby preventing any infections. , anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties (12), (13), (14). Consuming garlic cloves daily helps you maintain dental hygiene and prevent bacterial growth.

Ingredients

• 2 garlic cloves
• 200 ml water
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice

Method

• Crush the garlic cloves and add water and lemon juice.
• Drink the mixture in the morning on an empty stomach.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

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Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has antibacterial properties (15). Its astringent effect may help regulate and manage the excess sebum production on the skin.

Ingredients

• A few drops of apple cider vinegar
• A few drops of water
• Cotton sponge/ball

Method

• Mix apple cider vinegar and water in equal amounts.
• Dab the solution on the affected skin with a cotton ball.
• Rinse off with lukewarm water after a few minutes.
• Apply twice a week for better results.

3. Coconut Oil

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Dehydrated skin leads to excess sebum release, which may result in white bumps. Coconut oil hydrates and moisturizes your skin (16). It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties too (17).

Ingredients

• 2-3 tablespoons coconut oil
• A few drops of lavender essential oil

Method

• Apply warm, unrefined coconut oil to the afflicted area.
• You can also blend it with lavender oil and apply.

Maintain oral hygiene and eat a balanced diet to avoid the recurrence of white bumps. Regularly rinse your mouth with warm water and salt.

Medications and topical treatments may provide temporary relief or completely heal the condition. Visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups.

White bumps can be bothersome, but you can prevent them with a few self-care techniques. Check them out in the next section.

Self-Care Measures To Treat White Bumps On Lips

Here are a few self-care techniques that may help a lip bump heal faster and minimize any pain or discomfort.

• Wash your face with warm water until the bump goes away. Use a liquid cleanser.
• Pat the skin dry after washing the face rather than rubbing it.
• Avoid the use of tobacco.
• Avoid cosmetics, sunscreen, and face creams.
• Eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals obtained from whole foods.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Avoid rubbing, squeezing, or touching the bumps.
• Maintain good oral health by brushing and flossing the teeth at least twice a day.
• Use lip balms with natural components and a sun-protection factor.

Do you need to seek medical attention for white bumps on the lips? If yes, when should you consult a doctor?

When To See A Doctor?

White bumps on the lips are usually harmless and do not warrant medical attention. Consult a doctor only if these bumps persist longer than two weeks or cause the following symptoms:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Difficulty chewing and swallowing
• Neck and jaw swelling
• Fever and sore throat
• Rapid-spreading rashes
• Breathing difficulties
• Numb tongue

Infographic: Medical Treatments For White Bumps On Lips

White bumps can develop on your lips due to factors such as hormonal imbalance, allergic reaction, or poor skin hygiene. Sometimes, it may also be the symptom of an underlying medical condition. While some white bumps can be managed at home with simple natural remedies, some require proper medical treatment.

Check out the infographic below to know more!

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a white bump on the lip a cold sore?

A white bump on the lips could be a cold sore if it develops into a cluster of white bumps.

How long do Fordyce spots last?

Fordyce spots are usually permanent. But, sometimes, they fade away on their own. While they may get aggravated due to stressful situations, they are usually harmless. However, you may still choose to get them removed through topical medications or laser techniques.

17 Sources

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Dr. Robert S. BaderMD

     

Dr. Robert S. Bader is an Ivy League-trained physician and surgeon who is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon with 22 years of experience. Aside from having training in internal medicine and dermatology, he completed a fully accredited fellowship in cosmetic surgery under the auspices of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. He moved to South Florida in June 1999....more

Monomita ChakrabortyBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Monomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach. Her passion for and understanding of all things related to skin, hair, and beauty propelled her to pursue a career in writing....more