Skin growths are very common changes on or beneath the surface of the skin and include a wide variety of lesions such as moles, cysts, warts, skin tags, and keratoses. This guide explains the main types of skin growths, their typical appearance, common causes, usual symptoms, and general treatment options. While many are harmless, some can signal the need for medical evaluation. Understanding the differences can help you monitor your skin and decide when to seek care from a healthcare professional.
Common Benign Lesions
Benign skin growths are noncancerous and often remain stable over time. They may be pigmented, firm, fluid-filled, or connected to the skin by a thin stalk. Many people develop these lesions with age or due to genetics and sun exposure.
Moles (Nevi)
Moles are clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. They can be flat or raised and range in color from pink to brown to black. Most moles appear in childhood or early adulthood and can change slowly over time. While typical moles are usually harmless, a changing mole can sometimes be a sign of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.
Seborrheic Keratoses
Seborrheic keratoses are common, noncancerous growths that often appear in older adults. They can look waxy, scaly, or stuck-on and range in color from light tan to black. These growths are generally harmless and do not require treatment unless they become irritated or for cosmetic reasons.
Skin Tags (Acrochordons)
Skin tags are small, soft flaps of tissue that hang from the skin, often in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. They are benign and typically painless, although they may become irritated by friction. Treatment options include removal by cutting, freezing, or cauterization.
Epidermoid Cysts
Epidermoid cysts are closed sacs under the skin that contain a cheese-like, keratinous material. They can become inflamed or infected, leading to redness, pain, or drainage. Cysts are usually not harmful but may be removed if they are bothersome, repeatedly infected, or cosmetically concerning.
Viral and Infectious Growths
Some skin growths are caused by viral infections or other infectious organisms. These lesions can be contagious and sometimes spread to other parts of the body or to other people.
Warts
Warts are growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body and are often rough, raised, and similar in color to the surrounding skin. Common types include common warts, plantar warts on the soles of the feet, and flat warts, which often appear in clusters on the face or hands.
Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes small, firm, dome-shaped bumps with a central dimple. These growths are generally painless and can spread through direct contact or by sharing towels or clothing. In people with healthy immune systems, molluscum often resolves on its own over time.
Pigmented Growths and Sun Damage
Increased pigment production can lead to darkened spots or growths on the skin. Some are benign, while others may require professional evaluation to rule out skin cancer.
Freckles (Ephelides)
Freckles are small, flat brown spots that become more noticeable with sun exposure. They are common in people with lighter skin tones and are generally harmless. Unlike moles, freckles do not raise above the skin surface and typically fade or become less prominent with reduced sun exposure.
Solar Lentigines (Age Spots)
Solar lentigines, also called age spots or liver spots, are darkened areas on the skin caused by cumulative sun exposure. They often appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms. These spots are usually benign but can resemble melanoma, so a clinician should evaluate any new or changing pigmented lesion.
Actinic Keratoses
Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches caused by long-term sun damage. They are considered precancerous and can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. These growths often appear on the face, ears, scalp, or backs of the hands and may be pink, red, or brown.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
Many types of skin growths are harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, certain changes can indicate a more serious condition and warrant evaluation by a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Consider consulting a clinician if you notice any lesion that is growing quickly, bleeding, ulcerating, or changing in color or shape. Persistent, painful, or itchy growths should also be assessed. Early detection and diagnosis are important for effective management when necessary.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis typically begins with a visual examination by a healthcare provider. In some cases, dermoscopy or a skin biopsy may be recommended to obtain a clearer view of the lesion or to rule out cancer. Treatment depends on the type of growth, its location, symptoms, and whether there is a concern for malignancy.
| Type of Skin Growth | Typical Appearance | Common Locations | Notes and When to Seek Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moles (Nevi) | Flat or raised, pigmented | Whole body, often trunk and limbs | Monitor for changes; evaluate new or changing moles |
| Seborrheic Keratoses | Waxy, stuck-on, varying colors | Face, chest, back in adults | Generally benign; remove if irritated or for cosmetic reasons |
| Skin Tags | Small, soft skin flaps | Neck, armpits, groin | Painless; remove if bothersome or irritated |
| Epidermoid Cysts | Firm, round lumps with central punctum | Face, neck, trunk | Can become infected; consider removal if recurrent or symptomatic |
| Warts | Rough, raised bumps | Hands, feet, knees, fingers | Contagious; treatments include topical agents, cryotherapy |
| Solar Lentigines | Flat, tan to dark spots | Sun-exposed areas | Benign; monitor and protect skin from sun |
| Actinic Keratoses | Rough, scaly patches | Face, ears, scalp, hands | Precancerous; evaluation and treatment recommended |
| Molluscum Contagiosum | Dome-shaped bumps with central dimple | Trunk, arms, face | Often self-resolving; can spread by contact |
Prevention and Skin Monitoring
Daily sun protection, including broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing, can reduce the risk of new growths linked to UV damage, such as actinic keratoses and solar lentigines. Regular skin self-exams help you become familiar with your usual moles and spots, making it easier to notice changes over time.
If you are concerned about a specific growth or notice multiple new lesions, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional for personalized assessment and guidance.
Summary
Many types of skin growths are common and benign, but some can indicate sun damage or, rarely, skin cancer. Recognizing common lesions, understanding their typical features, and knowing when to seek evaluation will help you manage your skin health effectively. Professional diagnosis is the best way to determine the nature of an unfamiliar or changing growth.