Common Skin Growths – A Dermatologist’s Perspective
Dr. Eugene Conte • June 6, 2018
Our skin serves as our body’s first line of defense against the external environment and because of this it comes into contact with, and is exposed to, all sorts of elements that can cause growths of all shapes, sizes, and behaviors to develop. Not only are there many growths that can appear on the skin but many that mimic, or are easily confused with, other skin conditions. While the causes of many of them are often poorly understood, it is known that some are associated with age, while others are inherited. Benign lesions, which are the non-cancerous kind, are not life threatening. However, many people will opt to have these benign lesions removed for cosmetic purposes. A lesion may also be removed for medical reasons if cancer, or some other disease, is suspected. Some lesions that are benign but bleed, causes pain, stay inflamed, or are constantly irritated are also often removed. I will spend a short while describing the most common skin growths that you might encounter as well as talk a bit about when you should seek dermatological care. The readers may want to see photos of the growths that I am discussing. Images of any of these conditions can be found in online medical articles. Of course, if there are any questions regarding a growth on your skin, you should schedule an appointment with myself or a colleague of mine here at Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center.
Some of the common skin growths you will see around Hattiesburg and Laurel, Mississippi are:
Dermatofibroma:
dermatofibromas are pink, dull red, or darkly pigmented skin lesions and often resemble a mole. This skin growths are often small, but in some cases can reach the size of a peach pit. Dermatofibromas are firm to touch and will pucker or dimple when pinched. These growths occur most often on the legs of women and can become very irritated because they can be easily nicked when shaving. Interestingly, dermatofibromas represent a scar-like reactive process that may be induced by trauma to the area, such as an insect bite. Dermatologists at Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center can easily remove these growths surgically or by flattening the growth by freezing – you may hear it called “cryosurgery”.
Prurigo Nodularis:
these growths appear as a thickened, rough, tumor-like, sometimes scaly lesion that often will cause intense itching. What is neat about prurigo nodularis is that it is not truly a “growth”; it is an active process that is the result of scratching, however, the exact cause of the itching remains unknown. There are a couple reasons to visit a dermatologist for these skin growths. This particular lesion can be confused with Squamous Cell Carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, so often times a skin biopsy on this lesion is necessary. Additionally, prurigo nodularis can occasionally be associated with an underlying medical condition such as eczema, kidney failure, or cancer. Lastly, treatment of these types of skin lesions can be difficult and may consist of cortisone injections directly into the growth, cortisone tapes, creams, ointments, freezing, anti-itch medication, or scraping away of the lesion.
Keratoacanthoma:
a keratoacanthoma is a fast growing, cone-shaped, flesh colored growth that is considered a variant of squamous cell carcinoma, and can sometimes be mistaken for the real thing. This growth can destroy surrounding tissue and, in rare cases, metastasize just like squamous cell carcinoma. These lesions usually develop on the skin of the extremities. This skin growth require a dermatologist’s attention because typical treatment involves surgically removing the lesion, which is then typically sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination.
Pyogenic Granuloma:
these skin growths are small pink or red lesions formed by many blood vessels. With mild trauma, these growths can bleed easily. These can appear spontaneously or develop after injury to the skin in the area. They can occur at any age and in both sexes, but tend to be more common in children. Sometimes these skin growths can form in the gums of pregnant women, but usually disappear spontaneously after delivery. When treating these, the most efficacious treatment is to surgically shave and cauterize them with an electric needle. These can also be removed surgically, cryosurgical, and/or laser surgery.
Sebaceous Cysts:
a cyst is a benign growth that forms when an inner lining or sac fills with a cheesy material. There are two types of sebaceous cysts – epidermoid and pilar. Epidermoid cysts have a central opening from which a rancid material can be expressed. If they are located in the upper layers of the skin, they may have a yellow or white appearance and have prominent overlying blood vessels. Theses cysts most commonly occur on the face, neck, and back. Pilar cysts are primarily located on the scalp. In patients with multiple lesions, inheritance can play a role in explaining why. Epidermoid cysts may arise following surgery or injury to the skin. If the cyst enlarges rapidly and ruptures, a boil-like lesion results that usually requires treatment with an antibiotic and surgical removal of the sac. It should be noted that it is easier to remove the sac when it is not inflamed. This helps in preventing infection. If a cyst begins to enlarge rapidly, becomes inflamed, breaks down, or becomes painful, it should be examined by one of our providers immediately.
Milia:
these growths can be thought of as miniature epidermoid cysts. They frequently occur on the face as single or multiple pinpoint white lesions and are common in older women. The cause of these cysts are unclear, but they may arise following injuries to the skin or from surgery. The most effective treatment is extraction, which can be performed by one of the providers at Pine Belt Dermatology.
Sebaceous Gland Hyperplasia:
these skin growths appear as small white or yellow lesions and often occur on the faces of people with oily skin. The lesions may have prominent tiny blood vessels and can resemble Basal Cell Carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, therefore a skin biopsy on this growth may be performed. Treatment of these growths include electrosurgery, cryosurgery, laser surgery, and photodynamic therapy.
Digital Mucinous Pseudocyst:
these lesions are bluish in color and extrude a clear, thick material when punctured. They most commonly occur in the skin overlying the base of the fingernail and can interfere with nail growth. These lesions are not true cysts, but instead represent a degenerative process of the skin in which the sticky, jelly-like substance accumulates. Treatment of these growths include cortisone injections and/or surgical removal.
Lipoma:
a lipoma is a fatty tumor that lies deep in the skin and appears as a soft lump. Occasionally, lipomas are tender to the touch but usually do not cause other symptoms. While these tumors can undergo malignant transformation, this rarely occurs. Lipomas can be small or quite large and develop in adults as single or multiple lesions. These tumors typically only require surgery when they become large and uncomfortable or exquisitely tender. The most common type of treatment is by excision.
Xanthelasma:
these growths develop on the eyelids and are yellowish or whitish in color due to lipid deposits in the skin.These growths are commonly called “cholesterol deposits”. These can occur in people who have normal lipid levels, or they can be associated with a lipid-metabolism disorder, especially high cholesterol levels. While these are benign, I would recommend coming in for a checkup. People with xanthelasma should be evaluated for elevated or abnormal cholesterol level and triglycerides. The most common treatment options include surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, laser surgery, and the application of acids.
Syringoma:
these growths are small lesions of sweat gland ducts. They occur most often in women, form frequently on the lower eyelid, and are usually skin colored. The lesions also may be white. These growths tend not to hurt or itch (called “asymptomatic”). Treatments include dermabrasion, surgical removal, or laser surgery.
Trichoepithelioma:
trichoepitheliomas are small skin colored lesions that occur most commonly on the face and neck. These can sometimes resemble Basal Cell Carcinomas. The cause of these growths are not entirely understood. We do know that these lesions represent the body’s attempt to form hair follicles and shafts. In some individuals, they can become quite numerous and large and interfere with everyday function, especially if they occur in areas such as the ear canal or eye region. These growths can be removed with surgery, laser treatment, or dermabrasion.
Neurofibroma:
a neurofibroma may resemble a non-colored mole, but these growths are often very soft. These lesions are usually asymptomatic (meaning they do not hurt or itch), but they can sometimes be tender to the touch. The growths are benign and are derived from nerve sheath cells in the skin. They can be removed if a person finds them to be annoying. In instances when these growths are numerous, appear as patches of pigmentation, or freckling in the armpits, the individual may have an inherited disorder called neurofibromatosis. There are many forms of this disorder, which can be associated with brain tumors and internal neurofibromas that can become malignant. In these particular cases, patients need to be closely monitored and seek genetic counseling.
Hemangioma (Cherry Angioma):
Hemangiomas are benign growths consisting of numerous small blood vessels. The typical lesion is small, red, and appears most often on the torso of adults; however a hemangioma can develop on any area of the body. Some hemangiomas can become the size of a pencil eraser and be purple in color. People can sometimes develop hundreds of hemangiomas. These growths usually do not hurt or itch, however larger lesions may bleed and require removal. There are a number of options available for removal of these lesions, including excision, electrosurgery, and laser surgery.
Seborrheic Keratoses & Verrucous Acanthoma:
these lesions can have a wart-like appearance, and may be smooth or flat. They can range in color from skin-colored to jet black. Sometimes they have a mixture of brown and black colors, they can resemble an atypical mole or melanoma ( a lethal form of skin cancer), and it is for this reason that a biopsy may be performed on these growths. In general, seborrheic keratosis are quite common and numerous. When one of these becomes extremely large or thick, they are called verrucous acanthoma. These types of growths are frequently seen in older individuals and may be inherited. In people of color, they can often appear as small black lesions around the eyes. Lesions may be removed for cosmetic reasons or if they are associated with intense itching, bleeding, or irritation. Treatments for these growths include cryosurgery, shaving, scraping, or burning (electrodessication).
Nevi (Moles):
Moles may be pigmented or skin-colored. They arise in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) of the skin and can be congenital (meaning present at birth). Moles more commonly develop throughout childhood. Nevi may be flat or elevated and grow to about the size of a pencil eraser. They can develop anywhere on the body, and may disappear with time. If you or a family member has a changing mole, it may indicate that a visit to a dermatologist is necessary, as a changing mole can mean that skin cancer is developing. Any mole in question should be examined by a board certified dermatologist and may require biopsy. Moles also may need to be removed if they become irritated, or may be removed for cosmetic reasons. Remember – any mole that grows, changes in shape or color, or bleeds should prompt a visit to Pine Belt Dermatology.
Human skin can be subject to a variety of skin growths, many of which are harmless and may never require removal. Others can be precursors or indicators of a much more serious condition. To the untrained eye many of these can appear the same, which further highlights the necessity of seeking dermatological care for a skin growth that you may be worried about. Because the skin is the first line of defense you can’t be too careful when it comes to protecting it. If you have a spot that you are worried about, come see us! And in the event that you cannot find the time to get that spot looked at, click the link below to be taken to our online portal to conduct an online visit.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , we recognize that children may face different skin issues as they grow. Some conditions are temporary and manageable with basic skincare, while others require expert assessment. Recognizing common skin conditions helps parents and caregivers determine when to consult a dermatologist. Understanding your child’s skin health, including conditions like eczema, acne, warts, and rashes, is essential for their comfort and confidence. Common Skin Conditions in Children Children may develop many of the same skin conditions as adults, though their symptoms and treatment needs often differ. Common pediatric skin conditions include: Eczema: Often causes dry, itchy, red, or irritated patches of skin. Eczema can flare up because of weather, irritants, allergies, or other triggers. Acne: As children enter puberty, hormonal changes may lead to clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. Warts: Caused by a viral infection, warts are common in children and often appear on the hands, fingers, feet, or around the nails. Molluscum contagiosum: This common childhood skin infection can cause small, raised bumps that may spread through skin-to-skin contact. Rashes: Children may develop rashes from allergies, infections, insect bites, medications, or contact with irritating substances. Birthmarks: Many birthmarks are harmless, but a medical professional should evaluate any changes in their appearance. While most childhood skin conditions are not serious, a medical professional should evaluate persistent or changing symptoms. When Should Your Child See a Dermatologist? Parents ought to schedule a dermatology appointment if a skin concern does not improve with basic care or begins to affect a child’s daily life. A dermatologist may be recommended if your child experiences: A persistent rash, itching, or skin irritation Eczema that frequently flares or does not respond to basic skincare Moderate or severe acne, particularly if it is painful or causing scarring Warts or other growths that continue to spread or return Skin infections that require treatment A changing, bleeding, or unusual mole or birthmark A skin condition that causes discomfort, embarrassment, or affects your child’s confidence A recurring skin problem without an obvious cause Early evaluation helps decipher the underlying cause and secures timely, appropriate treatment. Why Pediatric Dermatology Matters Children’s skin differs from adult skin and is often extra sensitive to certain products and treatments. Using inappropriate medications or skincare products may worsen irritation. A dermatologist can evaluate your child’s symptoms, determine whether a condition requires treatment, and recommend options appropriate for their age and skin type. Specialist support can also help parents understand how to handle chronic conditions and reduce future flare-ups. Supporting Healthy Skin at Home Consistent daily skincare helps protect your child’s skin. Use gentle, fragrance-free products, moisturize regularly, avoid known irritants, and encourage children not to scratch irritated areas to maintain a healthy skin barrier. However, home care may not always be sufficient. If symptoms persist, worsen, or cause significant discomfort, seek expert evaluation for guidance and reassurance. Healthy Skin Starts Early Many childhood skin conditions are manageable when identified early. Knowing when to seek professional care for eczema, acne, warts, recurring rashes, or other concerns can make a big difference. At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , we provide comprehensive dermatology care for patients of all ages. If your child has a persistent, changing, or concerning skin condition, our team can identify the cause and develop a treatment plan to support healthy skin.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , we understand that selecting the right skincare products can be challenging. While many over-the-counter (OTC) options promise results, not all skin concerns can be addressed with these products. Knowing the difference between OTC and prescription treatments helps you make educated decisions and recognize when to seek professional care. If you are treating acne, eczema, rosacea, or signs of aging, upgrading your treatment plan at the right time can improve your skin health and confidence. Understanding Over-the-Counter Skin Treatments Over-the-counter skincare products are available without a prescription and are intended for mild to moderate skin concerns. When used consistently, many contain ingredients that help maintain healthy skin. Common OTC ingredients include: Salicylic acid for acne Benzoyl peroxide to reduce acne-causing bacteria Retinol for fine lines and uneven texture Hydrocortisone cream for minor itching and irritation Moisturizers with ceramides or hyaluronic acid to heal the skin barrier These products are a good starting point for mild conditions. However, because OTC treatments use lower-strength active ingredients, they may not be effective for chronic or serious skin issues. When Prescription Skin Treatments May Be Necessary Prescription treatments use stronger active ingredients and are customized to your specific skin condition. A dermatologist can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend medications that address the problem more effectively than OTC products. Prescription treatments may include: Oral medications for moderate to severe acne Prescription-strength retinoids Medications to manage eczema or psoriasis Treatments for rosacea and chronic redne Prescription creams for hyperpigmentation or melasma Antifungal or antibacterial medications for skin infections These therapies are chosen based on your medical history, skin type, and treatment goals to maximize results and minimize side effects. Time to Upgrade Your Treatment While many start with OTC products, some situations require a dermatology appointment. Consider seeing a dermatologist if: Your skin condition has not improved after several weeks of steady OTC treatment. Acne is causing painful cysts, nodules, or permanent scarring. Rashes, redness, or irritation continue to worsen. You experience frequent flare-ups of eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. You notice new or changing skin growths or unusual spots. Your skin concern is affecting your confidence or quality of life. Early treatment has the potential to prevent conditions from getting worse and minimize the chances of long-term skin damage. Why Professional Assessment Matters Many skin conditions look similar, making self-diagnosis challenging. For example, stubborn acne may be rosacea, and chronic dry patches could indicate eczema, psoriasis, or another condition. A board-certified dermatologist can accurately diagnose your skin concern and develop a customized treatment plan. Professional guidance also helps you avoid spending time and money on ineffective products. Healthy Skin Starts with the Right Treatment Over-the-counter products are important for daily skincare, but they may not treat complex or persistent concerns. Transitioning to prescription treatment at the right time can greatly improve your skin’s appearance and long-term health. At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center , our team offers complete evaluations and customized treatment plans for acne, eczema, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, skin cancer screenings, and other skin conditions. If your current skincare routine is not resulting in success, we are here to help you achieve healthier, more confident skin.
At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we believe education is key to protecting and maintaining healthy skin. July is significant for skin health, featuring both UV Safety Awareness Month and World Skin Health Day on July 8 . These occasions highlight the importance of sun protection and raise awareness of common concerns, such as hyperpigmentation and melasma . Understanding how ultraviolet (UV) exposure affects your skin helps prevent long-term damage and supports a healthier, more even complexion. Why UV Protection Matters The sun emits ultraviolet rays that can damage skin even on cloudy days. While many associate UV exposure with sunburn, its effects are broader. Repeated UV exposure accelerates skin aging, increases skin cancer risk, and contributes to pigmentation disorders. Common effects of excessive UV exposure include: • Sunburn and skin irritation • Premature aging, including fine lines and wrinkles • Dark spots and uneven skin tone • Increased risk of skin cancer • Worsening of hyperpigmentation and melasma Daily sun protection is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy skin and reduce preventable damage. What Is Hyperpigmentation? Hyperpigmentation is a common condition where areas of skin become darker than the surrounding tissue due to excess melanin production. Multiple factors can contribute to hyperpigmentation, including: • Sun exposure • Acne scars and inflammation • Hormonal changes • Skin injuries or irritation • Certain medications While hyperpigmentation is mostly harmless, many seek treatment to improve skin tone as well as restore confidence. Understanding Melasma Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that shows up as brown or gray-brown patches, typically on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. Melasma is frequently associated with: • Hormone changes during pregnancy • Birth control medications • Hormone replacement therapy • Genetic predisposition • Sun exposure Although melasma is not dangerous, it can be difficult to treat because UV exposure frequently triggers or worsens it. Even minimal sun exposure can increase pigment production and make discoloration more noticeable. Protecting Your Skin from UV Damage Whether you are concerned about skin cancer, hyperpigmentation, or melasma, daily sun protection is essential. Dermatologists suggest: • Using sun lotion with SPF 30 or higher every day • Reapplying sunscreen every two hours when outdoors • Wearing wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing • Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours • Wearing UV-protective sunglasses • Avoiding tanning beds Consistent sun protection helps prevent new pigmentation issues. World Skin Health Day: A Reminder to Prioritize Skin Care Observed annually on July 8, World Skin Health Day encourages preventive steps to maintain healthy skin. This is a reminder to perform regular self-exams, schedule dermatology visits, and address concerns early. If you notice persistent dark spots, changes in pigmentation, or new skin lesions, seek an expert assessment to determine the cause and identify treatment options. Supporting Healthy Skin Year-Round UV Safety Awareness Month and World Skin Health Day remind us that protecting your skin is an investment in long-term health. Practicing sun safety and understanding conditions like hyperpigmentation and melasma help preserve your skin’s health, appearance, and function. At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, our team provides personalized evaluations and treatments for pigmentation concerns, sun-damaged skin, and overall skin health. Plan a visit and learn how we can help you achieve healthier, more confident skin.
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When a ‘Rash’ Might Be Something More Serious At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, we recognize that rashes are common and frequently resolve quickly with minimal treatment. However, some rashes may signify underlying conditions that require prompt medical attention. Identifying when a rash is more than a minor irritation is key to protecting your health. Comprehending Common vs. Concerning Rashes Most everyday rashes result from irritants, allergies, heat, or minor infections and typically improve within a few days with over-the-counter treatments. However, if a rash lasts longer, worsens, or appears with other symptoms, it may signal a more serious issue. Identifying the difference between a routine rash and one that requires medical evaluation helps avoid complications and ensure appropriate care. Warning Signs to Watch For Certain features may indicate a rash requires clinical assessment, including: Rapidly spreading or worsening rash Severe pain, swelling, or blistering Signs of infection such as pus, warmth, or red streaks Fever or flu-like symptoms accompanying the rash A rash that does not improve after several days of treatment Dark, purple, or bruised-looking areas on the skin For example, a rash with fever may indicate a viral or bacterial infection, whereas painful blistering can suggest conditions such as shingles. In rare cases, rashes may signal autoimmune disorders or severe allergic reactions. Rashes That May Point to Underlying Conditions Some rashes may be linked to broader health concerns, including conditions that cause inflammation in the skin and other organs: Allergic reactions that may escalate into further severe responses Infections that spread beyond the skin if untreated Medication reactions that require immediate adjustment Persistent or unusual skin changes may be early signs of skin cancer or precancerous conditions, especially if they do not heal or continue to change over time. Why Early Evaluation Matters Delaying care for a worrisome rash may allow the underlying condition to progress. Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent discomfort and complications. A dermatology specialist can assess the rash’s appearance, location, and progression, and may recommend diagnostic tests if needed. This approach assures treatment addresses the underlying cause, not just the visible symptoms. When to See a Dermatology Specialist If you are unsure about your rash, it is best to err on the side of caution. Consider seeking care if: The rash is persistent, painful, or unusual in appearance Over-the-counter treatments are not effective You experience additional symptoms such as fever or fatigue The rash interferes with your daily comfort or quality of life At Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, our experienced providers supply comprehensive skin evaluations and customized treatment plans. We take time to understand your symptoms and deliver clear, effective solutions tailored to your needs. Protecting Your Skin and Your Health While many rashes are minor, some may be early warning signs of more serious health concerns. Monitoring skin changes and pursuing prompt medical advice can produce a notable effect. If you notice a rash that does not seem right, do not ignore it. Schedule a consultation with Pine Belt Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center for expert evaluation and peace of mind. Your skin is an important indicator of your overall health, and taking it seriously supports ongoing well-being.
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