Skin Growths

Seborrheic keratoses are one of the most common benign skin growths, particularly in individuals over 50. SKs tend to run in families, and most people will develop at least one in their lifetime; some may develop dozens or even hundreds of these common growths. These growths are typically flat or slightly raised, scaly, and pigmented, giving them a “stuck-on” appearance. They usually occur on the face, chest, shoulders, and back but can appear anywhere on the body. Treatment is generally unnecessary unless the SKs become symptomatic (itchy, irritated, tender, bleeding) or there are cosmetic concerns, in which case cryotherapy (freezing) or other modalities may be used.

Sebaceous hyperplasia manifests as small, shiny, flesh-colored to yellow bumps on the face, forehead, and nose. The enlargement of oil glands causes it. This condition is more common in people with fair skin and is associated with high testosterone levels, sun exposure, genetics, and some medications. Treatment is considered cosmetic.

Lentigines are hyperpigmented patches that often resemble large freckles or moles. They usually appear tan to light brown and commonly affect light-skinned adults as they age. Lentigines are primarily caused by long-term sun exposure and tend to develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin. These spots are benign, but treatment may be sought for cosmetic purposes.

Moles are common benign skin growths that typically develop during childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. They can appear flat, slightly raised, or dome-shaped and are often brown but may also be tan, black, pink, or blue. Moles can develop anywhere on the body, including under the fingernails, between the fingers and toes, and on the scalp. Any changes in a mole’s appearance may indicate an atypical or dysplastic mole or melanoma, and a dermatologist should evaluate them. Moles larger than a pencil eraser and exhibiting irregular shapes or multiple colors require prompt evaluation by a dermatologist.

Skin cysts are lumps that contain fluid or other skin debris beneath the skin. They usually appear yellow or white, with a small dark spot in the center. Cysts can be treated through drainage, injections, or excision. Epidermal inclusion cysts, a common type of skin cyst, are firm, flesh-colored nodules that form from the skin of a hair follicle. Pilar cysts, a subtype found on the scalp, are more common in women and are influenced by genetics. Digital myxoid cysts often appear as small, firm, translucent bumps near fingernails.