Lumps, bumps, and skin growths are common skin concerns and can appear at any age. They may develop gradually or be noticed suddenly and can vary in size, texture, and colour. Many of these growths are benign and harmless, but some may change over time or cause discomfort, which is why medical assessment is often helpful.
At Auria Dermatology Clinic, we assess a wide range of common skin growths, including skin tags, cysts, benign tumours, and other lumps or bumps on the skin. A proper evaluation helps determine the nature of the growth and whether treatment or monitoring is appropriate.
Skin tags are small, soft growths that commonly occur in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, underarms, groin, and eyelids. They are benign and non-cancerous.
Skin tags usually appear as flesh-coloured or slightly darker growths attached to the skin by a narrow stalk. They are typically painless but may become irritated if repeatedly rubbed or caught on clothing.
Skin tags are more common with increasing age and may be associated with friction, weight changes, pregnancy, or metabolic conditions, such as insulin resistance. They are not contagious and do not turn into skin cancer.
Treatment is not medically necessary unless the skin tag causes discomfort or concern, or for cosmesis. Options may include:
Epidermoid cysts are slow-growing lumps that develop beneath the skin due to a build-up of keratin. Despite being commonly called “sebaceous cysts,” they do not arise from oil glands.
These cysts usually feel firm or rubbery and may have a small central opening. They are often painless but can become inflamed, infected, or tender.
Cysts may form when skin cells become trapped beneath the surface. They can occur anywhere on the body and may recur if not completely removed.
Management depends on symptoms and may include:
Seborrhoeic keratoses are common benign skin growths that often appear in adulthood. They are benign and do not become cancerous. However, they can increase in size and number and their outward appearance is a common concern.
They typically appear as brown, black, or tan growths with a waxy or “stuck-on” appearance. People often seek assessment when new lesions appear or existing ones change.
Treatment may include:
Cherry angiomas are benign vascular growths made up of small blood vessels. They are very common and tend to increase in number with age.
They appear as small, bright red or purple spots on the skin. They are usually asymptomatic but may bleed if injured.
The exact cause is unclear, but they are commonly associated with ageing and genetic predisposition.
Removal is not required unless desired and may include:
Lipomas are benign tumours made up of fatty tissue. They grow slowly and are usually found beneath the skin.
Lipomas feel soft and movable and are usually painless. Larger lesions or those in certain locations may cause discomfort or cosmetic concern.
Lipomas may occur sporadically or run in families. They are not cancerous.
Management options include:
Dermatofibromas are firm, benign skin nodules that often develop on the legs or arms. They may arise after minor skin injury.
These lesions are usually small, firm, and may dimple when pinched. They are often asymptomatic but can be tender in some cases.
They are thought to represent a local skin reaction to injury or insect bites.
Dermatofibromas generally do not require treatment. Surgical removal may be considered if symptomatic or for diagnostic clarity.
Assessment involves a detailed history and physical examination to evaluate the appearance, texture, and growth pattern of the lesion. Dermoscopy will be used to examine surface structures more closely.
If the diagnosis is uncertain or if there are concerning features, a skin biopsy may be recommended to confirm the nature of the growth.
You may consider seeing a dermatologist if a lump or bump:
A consultation with Dr Laura Hui allows for accurate diagnosis and discussion of appropriate management options.
Many skin growths are benign, but not all lumps look the same. Medical assessment helps distinguish harmless lesions from those that require further evaluation.
Skin tags and most cysts are benign and do not become cancerous. However, changes in appearance or symptoms should be reviewed.
Removal is not always necessary. Decisions are based on symptoms, changes, location, and individual preference.
Many skin lumps and growths are benign and do not require treatment. A dermatology review at our clinic helps clarify what a growth is, whether it needs monitoring, and whether removal is appropriate based on symptoms, location, or changes over time.
