Pearly penile papules (PPPs) are a source of concern for many men since intimate partners frequently confuse them with genital warts, which have a similar appearance.
How do you get rid of pearly penile papules?
If you’ve been rejected because of pearly penile papule lesions, know that in most situations, our urologist can remove them non-surgically in approximately an hour.
What Are Pearly Penile Papules?
Pearly penile papules are tiny, noncancerous/benign flesh-colored or white lumps that occur on the glans penis ridge or the penis corona.
These papules, which are usually flesh-colored or white, are organized in a row or rows around the diameter of the penis.
PPP are most common at the dorsal side of the corona and can completely encircle the glans, although lesions have also been recorded ectopically on the shaft of the penis.
How Common Are Pearly Penile Papules?
These penile spots are extremely common, with up to 44% of men1 having pearly penile papules in varying sizes and visibility at some point in their life.
The frequency of occurrence decreases in elderly people2, indicating that the abnormalities diminish with advancing age.
Circumcised males have reduced prevalence of penile papules (PPP), potentially attributed to the persistent friction on the exposed glans leading to the regression of lesions3.
What Causes Pearly Penile Papules?
Although the exact etiology is unknown4, they are thought to be a typical variation of penile skin unrelated to underlying health issues, sexual activity, or poor hygiene.
Are Pearly Penile Papules Contagious?
Pearly penile papules are not sexually transmissible, infectious, or harmful in any manner5. Furthermore, they differ from genital warts (See image), which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
What Are Fordyce Spots?
Fordyce spots are another common and benign condition that can appear on the penis, often confused with PPP or other dermatologic conditions.
These spots are small, raised, pale or yellowish-white bumps that occur when sebaceous (oil) glands appear in areas where they normally aren’t visible, such as the shaft of the penis or the inner lips of the mouth.
Unlike pearly penile papules, Fordyce spots are usually found on the shaft of the penis rather than the glans and are not arranged in rows.
They may be more prominent during puberty or when the skin is stretched. Like PPP, Fordyce spots are:
- Not sexually transmitted
- Not caused by infection or poor hygiene
- Medically harmless
While no treatment is necessary, some men pursue cosmetic removal using laser therapies if the spots cause emotional distress.
Why Men Get Distressed by Pearly Penile Papules & Fordyce Spots
Even though both pearly penile papules and Fordyce spots are medically harmless, their appearance often causes anxiety, embarrassment, and confusion.
These conditions can visually resemble sexually transmitted infections like genital warts, leading to concern from intimate partners and misdiagnosis by individuals unfamiliar with normal anatomical variants.
Men frequently report emotional distress after being questioned by sexual partners or facing rejection due to the visible appearance of bumps or spots on the penis.
Social stigma, misinformation found online, and the visual similarity to more serious conditions all contribute to the psychological burden.
For men who prioritize aesthetics or are concerned about partner reactions, the presence of these benign lesions can have a significant impact on self-esteem and sexual confidence—even when no medical treatment is necessary.
Identification & Treatment of Pearly Penile Papules & Fordyce Spots
Both pearly penile papules (PPP) and Fordyce spots can usually be diagnosed through a clinical examination without the need for biopsy or testing.
- PPP typically appear as small, dome-shaped, flesh-colored or white bumps arranged in one or two rows around the corona of the glans penis.
- Fordyce spots, by contrast, are small, yellowish or whitish dots that occur along the shaft of the penis. They are usually scattered and do not follow a symmetrical pattern.
Neither condition is harmful, contagious, or associated with poor hygiene.
Treatment Options
While medical treatment is not necessary, some men choose removal for cosmetic reasons.
At Rejuvall, pearly penile papules can be treated in a 30-minute, in-office procedure using local anesthesia. Most patients recover within a few days with minimal discomfort.
Fordyce spots, if treated, typically respond best to laser therapies such as COâ‚‚ or pulsed dye lasers, which help reduce their appearance without scarring.
However, outcomes vary, and not all Fordyce spots are suitable for cosmetic treatment.
Note: Over-the-counter creams, oils, or home remedies are not effective for either condition and may cause irritation or damage.
Treatment Cost for PPP: $3,900 (Typical Case)
More extensive cases may cost more. Fordyce spot treatment pricing is determined case by case and depends on extent and location.
[1.] Ackerman A. B., Kronberg R. (1973). Pearly penile papules. Acral angiofibromas. Archives of Dermatology, 108, 673-675
[2.] Agha K., et al. (2009). Pearly penile papules regress in older patients and with circumcision. Int J STD AIDS, 20, 768-770
[3.] Rehbein H. M. (1977). Pearly penile papules: Incidence. Cutis, 19, 54-57
[4.] Neinstein L. S., Goldenring J. (1984). Pink pearly papules: An epidemiologic study. J Pediatr, 105, 594-595
[5.] Johnson B. L., Jr., Baxter D. L. (1964). Pearly penile papules. Arch Dermatol, 90, 166-167
Dr. Steven L. Morganstern, M.D.
Dr. Morganstern is an internationally acclaimed, board-certified urologist, surgeon, and best-selling author specializing in men’s sexual health. A pioneer in erectile dysfunction therapeutics, Dr. Morganstern was the only private clinician selected for the original Viagra trials and has spent over four decades advancing treatments in ED, penile enlargement, hormone replacement, and prostate health.
