There are yellow granular spots in the epidermis of the lips.

Nov 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Yellowish granular spots on the lip skin may be caused by conditions such as ectopic sebaceous glands, food residue, cheilitis, folliculitis, or sweat gland tumors. These can be improved through proper cleansing and skincare, dietary adjustments, or medical treatment. If the yellow spots increase in number or size, or are accompanied by itching or pain, prompt medical attention is necessary. Abnormal development or hyperplasia of sebaceous glands can lead to their appearance on the surface of the lips.

Yellowish granules appearing under the lip skin may be caused by conditions such as ectopic sebaceous glands, food residue, cheilitis, folliculitis, or sweat gland tumors. These can be improved through proper cleansing and care, dietary adjustments, or medical treatment. If the yellow spots increase in number, enlarge, or are accompanied by itching or pain, prompt medical attention is advised.

1. Ectopic sebaceous glands: Abnormal development or hyperplasia of sebaceous glands can form tiny yellowish-white granules on the lip skin. This condition usually causes no discomfort and does not affect health. It is recommended to maintain lip hygiene, avoid frequent friction or irritation, and no specific treatment is required—regular observation is sufficient.

2. Food residue: After consuming yellow-colored foods such as egg yolk or mango, food particles or pigments may adhere to the natural grooves of the lips, forming temporary yellowish granules. It is advisable to gently wipe the lips with warm water after meals to prevent food residue and reduce long-term, frequent stimulation from darkly pigmented foods.

3. Cheilitis: Inflammation caused by external irritation or infection of the lips may lead to abnormal skin metabolism, resulting in yellowish granules accompanied by dryness, flaking, and mild redness or swelling. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as erythromycin ointment, vitamin B6 cream, or chlortetracycline hydrochloride eye ointment may be used to relieve symptoms.

4. Folliculitis: Bacterial infection of hair follicles around the lips can cause small yellow papules affecting the epidermis, often slightly raised and tender upon pressure. Patients may use mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or cefaclor dispersible tablets under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.

5. Sweat gland tumor (syringoma): Abnormal proliferation of sweat ducts may result in small, flat, soft, pale yellow granules on the lip skin, typically asymptomatic. Under a doctor’s direction, topical treatments such as tretinoin cream, salicylic acid ointment, or urea ointment may help improve the appearance.

Maintain clean and moisturized lips by using gentle, non-irritating lip balms. Avoid squeezing or scratching the yellow spots. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, drink plenty of water, limit intake of spicy and greasy foods, and maintain regular sleep patterns to support healthy lip skin.