Skin Growths

There are numerous types of skin growths. The following are among the most frequently encountered types.

Seborrheic keratoses

Seborrheic keratoses are benign skin growths that commonly appear in middle-aged and older adults. They are typically brown, tan, or black and have a waxy, wart-like appearance. These growths can appear anywhere on the body but are most often found on the chest, back, face, or scalp.

Moles (nevi)

Moles are common pigmented skin lesions composed of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). While most moles are benign and stable, changes in size, color, border, or texture may raise concern for melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Moles can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired over time, often due to sun exposure.

Skin tags (acrochordons)

Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that often develop in areas where skin folds or experiences friction, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, between the breasts and groin. These benign growths are more common in individuals with obesity, diabetes, or a family history of skin tags.

Dermatofibromas

These firm, raised nodules often develop on the legs or arms and may result from minor skin trauma, such as insect bites. They are typically brown or reddish-brown and feel like a small, hard lump under the skin. Dermatofibromas are benign and usually do not require treatment.

Cysts (epidermoid and pilar cysts)

Cysts are sac-like structures beneath the skin that can fill with keratin, oil, or other material. They often appear as smooth, round bumps and may become inflamed or infected.

Actinic keratoses (precancerous growths)

These rough, scaly patches develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin and are considered precancerous lesions. They may progress to squamous cell carcinoma if untreated.

Warts

Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts are contagious skin growths that may appear on the hands, feet, or other parts of the body. They have a rough, cauliflower-like surface and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces.

Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas

These are the most common types of skin cancer and often appear as persistent, non-healing growths or sores. Basal cell carcinoma may present as a pearly bump, while squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a scaly, red patch or raised nodule. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent further spread.

Diagnosis begins with a thorough skin examination by a dermatologist. Dr. Neely Khan uses advanced diagnostic tools, including dermoscopy (a magnifying skin-surface microscope), to evaluate suspicious lesions. If necessary, a skin biopsy may be performed to obtain a sample for histologic analysis under the microscope.

Patients should monitor skin growths for any changes that could indicate malignancy or other concerns. Symptoms and signs that warrant evaluation by a dermatologist include:

• Rapid growth or change in appearance
• Irregular borders or asymmetry
• Variegated color (multiple shades in one lesion)
• Itching, bleeding, or pain
• New growths appearing after age 30

The ABCDE rule—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6 mm, and Evolving appearance—can help identify potentially concerning moles or lesions that may require a biopsy.