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Skin Growths

Skin growths are extremely common and can appear anywhere on the body. Most are harmless, but some may require treatment or further evaluation by a dermatologist. Skin growths can range in size, shape, color, and texture, and they can be flat, raised, rough, or smooth. Understanding what they are and how they appear can help you know when to seek medical advice.

Moles are small, round or oval spots that are usually brown, black, or flesh-colored. They occur when pigment-producing cells called melanocytes grow in clusters. Moles can appear anywhere on the body and may be flat or raised.

Symptoms

Most moles are asymptomatic, but changes in color, shape, or size—or the sudden appearance of a new mole in adulthood—should be evaluated.

Diagnosis

Dr. Newsome will diagnose moles through a visual skin exam and may use a dermatoscope for a closer look.

Skin tags are soft, flesh-colored growths that hang from the skin, commonly found on the neck, armpits, eyelids, or under the breasts. They are made of normal skin tissue and are often connected by a thin stalk.

Symptoms

Skin tags are typically painless and harmless but may become irritated by clothing or jewelry.

Diagnosis

A simple physical exam is usually enough for diagnosis.

Seborrheic keratoses are noncancerous, wart-like growths that often have a waxy, “stuck-on” appearance. They can vary in color from light tan to dark brown or black and usually develop on the trunk, face, or back as people age.

Symptoms

These growths may itch or become irritated, but they are not dangerous.

Diagnosis

Visual inspection is typically sufficient; in some cases, a biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

Cherry angiomas are small, bright red bumps made up of blood vessels. They are most often found on the torso and become more common with age.

Symptoms

They are usually symptom-free and harmless, though they may bleed if scratched.

Diagnosis

A dermatologist can identify a cherry angioma through a simple examination.

Dermatofibromas are firm, small nodules that may appear pink, brown, or red. They usually occur on the arms or legs and may feel like a pebble under the skin.

Symptoms

Often cause no symptom but may be tender or itchy. They typically dimple inward when pinched.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is clinical, but a biopsy can be done if there is any uncertainty.

Lipomas are soft, movable lumps under the skin made of fat cells. They are usually painless and slow-growing, most often appearing on the shoulders, back, or arms.

Symptoms

These fatty growths are usually painless unless they press on nearby nerves.

Diagnosis

A physical exam is often sufficient, but imaging or biopsy may be used if the diagnosis is unclear.

Warts are rough, raised growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on the hands, feet, face, or genitals, and are contagious through direct contact.

Symptoms

Warts are usually painless but can be irritating or painful on pressure points, like the soles of the feet.

Diagnosis

Most warts are diagnosed by appearance, but stubborn or unusual warts may need a biopsy.

Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches that develop on sun-exposed skin such as the face, ears, scalp, or hands. These are considered precancerous and can potentially turn into squamous cell carcinoma.

Symptoms

They may feel dry or sandpapery and can be pink, red, or flesh-toned.

Diagnosis

A skin exam is usually enough, though a biopsy may be needed to rule out skin cancer.

Cysts are closed sacs beneath the skin filled with fluid or keratin material. They commonly appear on the scalp, face, neck, or back.

Symptoms

They usually feel like round, firm bumps and may become red, swollen, or tender if infected.

Diagnosis

A visual exam typically confirms the diagnosis; ultrasound may sometimes be used.

Most skin growths are benign and do not pose a threat to your health. However, any new, changing, or symptomatic growth should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out more serious conditions, including skin cancer. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment, especially for lesions with the potential to become malignant. If you notice anything unusual on your skin, it’s always best to seek a professional opinion.

If you have a skin growth and want an expert opinion, schedule a consultation with Dr. Austin Newsome. Austin Newsome, MD Dermatologist is a Castle Connelly Top Doctor. ​Castle Connolly is a trusted resource for patients seeking high-quality medical care. Physicians can’t pay to be a Castle Connolly Top Doctor. Honors are given by providing the best possible patient care and earning the respect of their associates.

At a Glance

Dr. Austin Newsome

  • Board-certified dermatologist with over eight years of experience
  • Builds trusted relationships with patients to support personalized skincare
  • Offers general, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology
  • Learn more
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