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Skin Growths

There are several common types of skin growths. Here are some of the most common:

  1. Moles: Moles are small, dark, and often raised areas of skin that are usually harmless. They can be round or oval in shape and may be flat or raised. Most moles appear during childhood or adolescence, and they can grow or change over time.
  2. Skin tags: Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that hang off the skin. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found in areas where the skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Skin tags are generally harmless but can be removed for cosmetic reasons.
  3. Warts: Warts are small, rough growths caused by a viral infection. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and face. Warts are contagious and can spread from person to person.
  4. Seborrheic keratoses: Seborrheic keratoses are raised, waxy, scaly growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They are most commonly found on the face, chest, and back. Seborrheic keratoses are generally harmless but can be removed for cosmetic reasons.
  5. Milia: Milia are small, white or yellowish bumps that often appear on the face, especially around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. They are also known as “milk spots” and are caused by trapped dead skin cells or keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails.
  6. Cherry angiomas: Cherry angiomas are small, red bumps that can appear anywhere on the body. They are most commonly found on the trunk, arms, and legs. Cherry angiomas are generally harmless but can be removed for cosmetic reasons.
  7. Actinic keratoses: Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches of skin that are caused by long-term sun exposure. They are most commonly found on the face, scalp, and hands. Actinic keratoses can sometimes turn into skin cancer, so it’s important to have them checked by a dermatologist.
  8. Basal cell carcinoma: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It usually appears as a small, raised bump on the skin that may have a pearly or waxy appearance. Basal cell carcinoma is generally slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
  9. Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma is another common form of skin cancer. It usually appears as a red, scaly patch of skin that may bleed or form a crust. Squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

How are common skin growths treated?

The treatment for common skin growths can vary depending on the type and severity of the growth. Here are some common treatments for different types of skin growths:

  1. Moles: Most moles are harmless and do not require treatment. However, if a mole is changing in shape, size, or color, a dermatologist may recommend removing it. Moles can be removed through surgical excision, shaving, or laser treatment.
  2. Skin tags: Skin tags are usually harmless and do not require treatment. However, if a skin tag is bothersome or unsightly, it can be removed by freezing, cutting, or burning it off.
  3. Warts: Warts can be treated with over-the-counter medications, such as salicylic acid, or with prescription medications or medical procedures, such as cryotherapy (freezing), laser treatment, or surgery.
  4. Seborrheic keratoses: Seborrheic keratoses do not usually require treatment, but if they are bothersome or unsightly, they can be removed through cryotherapy, scraping, or burning.
  5. Milia: Milia Treatment is usually not necessary, as they often disappear on their own. However, if they are bothersome or persistent, a dermatologist can remove them using a needle, scalpel, or laser. It is important not to try to remove milia at home, as this can cause scarring or infection.
  6. Cherry angiomas: Cherry angiomas are usually harmless and do not require treatment. However, if they are bothersome or unsightly, they can be removed through laser treatment or electrocautery (burning).
  7. Actinic keratoses: Actinic keratoses can be treated with topical medications, such as imiquimod, or with procedures such as cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, or surgical removal.
  8. Basal cell carcinoma: Basal cell carcinoma is usually treated with surgical excision, although other treatments such as Mohs surgery, radiation therapy, or topical medications may be used in some cases.
  9. Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma is usually treated with surgical excision, although other treatments such as radiation therapy or topical medications may be used in some cases.

It is important to see a dermatologist for any suspicious or changing skin growths to determine the appropriate course of treatment. Contact Coastal Skin and Eye Institute to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists, to learn more about common skin growths and their treatments. They can address your concerns and provide the information you need to make informed decisions about your skin care. We have offices in Carmel Mountain and Encinitas, California for your convenience.