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 keratin (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
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
Garlic contains antimicrobial, 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
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
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
Is a white bump on the lip a cold sore? Check out the infographic below to know more! 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.
