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Skin Growths

Benign skin growths are non-cancerous lesions or tumors that appear on the skin. They can vary in size, shape, color, and location but generally do not pose serious health risks. Understanding the different types of benign skin growths is important for distinguishing them from malignant lesions that require medical intervention. Here are some of the most common types of benign skin growths:

Dermatofibromas are firm, raised nodules that often develop on the lower legs but can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually brown or tan and can be tender to the touch. Sometimes they can itch or hurt. These growths are thought to be a reaction to minor trauma or insect bites. They do not require treatment but can be removed if they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

An epidermoid cyst is a common type of benign cyst that forms in the skin. They are characterized by a slow growing, round and often dome shaped bump under the skin filled with a substance called keratin. They frequently affect young and middle-aged people and develop from a blocked hair follicle, or after a minor skin injury. They can become infected and discharge pus. They are usually yellowish or white with a small dark plug found on the face, neck, upper trunk and genitals.  Epidermoid cysts tend to occur with acne. They are harmless.

SKs are among the most common benign skin growths. They are found on the head, neck and chest and upper back of older people. They typically appear as raised, waxy, and often darkly pigmented plaques or wart-like growths. These growths can vary in color from light tan to black and often have a “stuck-on” appearance. They are generally harmless and do not require treatment unless they become irritated or are cosmetically undesirable.

Cherry angiomas are small, bright red or purple growths composed of clusters of capillaries at the surface of the skin. They are common in people over the age of 30 and tend to increase in number with age. These growths are usually less than a quarter-inch in diameter and can be smooth or raised. While they are typically harmless, they can bleed if injured.

Lipomas are soft, movable lumps beneath the skin composed of fatty tissue. They are typically slow-growing and can range in size from a pea to several inches in diameter. Lipomas are most commonly found on the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms, and thighs. Although they are generally painless and benign, larger lipomas or those that cause discomfort or affect function and can be surgically removed. The cause is unknown, but they may be inherited.

Milia are small white, dome-shaped cysts filled with dead skin cells. Milia are common in children and adults.  Dead skin cells become trapped in pores just beneath the skin on the face but can appear on any part of the body. They may disappear without treatment. Regular exfoliation can prevent milia.

Common moles are often harmless. They are small, dark brown spots that develop in childhood and adolescence. Harmless moles have a uniform appearance, shape and size. Most people have up to 40 harmless moles. However, moles that have an uneven shape and multiple colors are considered atypical or dysplastic nevi and can be mistaken for melanoma. It is essential to have your moles checked on a regular basis, especially if you notice a change in the appearance of a mole.

Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that hang off the skin by a thin stalk. They are commonly found on the neck, and in skin folds in the armpits, groin, eyelids, and under the breasts. Skin tags are more common in overweight individuals and those with diabetes, metabolic syndrome and high blood pressure. They are harmless but can be removed if they become irritated or for cosmetic reasons.

Warts are skin growths caused by a virus that infects the epidermis (top layers of the skin). The virus is called human papillomavirus (HPV) and enters your skin through a cut or scape. These warts are contagious and can spread by contact. If over the counter treatments do not get rid of your warts, a dermatologist has many treatments that will help.

These are yellow deposits of cholesterol around the eyes that may be caused by high cholesterol. Xanthelasmas are generally benign but can be indicative of underlying lipid metabolism disorders.

While benign skin growths are generally harmless, any new, changing, or symptomatic growth should be evaluated by your Ironwood provider to ensure proper diagnosis and management. Regular skin examinations can help in early detection and treatment of any potentially concerning lesions. When you are concerned about a skin growth, contact Ironwood Dermatology in Oro Valley or Tucson, Arizona to schedule a consultation.

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