Skin tags vs. warts vs. moles: How to distinguish these 3 skin conditions? Dermat shares a guide
Appearance: It looks soft and fresh-colored or slightly darker and is often hanging off the skin by a thin stalk.
Texture: It is smooth and slightly wrinkled and feels soft to touch.
Location: Mostly appears on the eyelids, neck, underarms, breasts, or groin folds—areas where skin rubs against skin.
Cause: Friction, hormonal changes (common in pregnancy), obesity, and insulin resistance.
Are they dangerous?: No. Skin tags are benign in nature and usually feel painless but might get irritated by jewellery or clothing.
Treatment: Can be removed quite easily by a doctor using a cautery, freezing, or snipping under sterile conditions. Also read | Skin infections to watch out for in gym, tips to prevent yourself from contracting them Skin tags are benign in nature.(Unsplash) 2. Warts:
Appearance: They are rough, raised bumps that have a cauliflower-like surface and might have black dots or clotted blood vessels.
Texture: they are rather firm and irregular. Location: Hands, feet (plantar warts), knees, and other areas prone to cuts or minor trauma.
Cause: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which can spread through skin contact or shared surfaces.
Are they dangerous?: They are usually benign but can be contagious and might spread.
Treatment: Can be treated using cryotherapy, laser treatment, or minor surgery. Avoid self-removal due to risk of spread. 3. Moles (nevi):
Appearance: They are usually flat/ raised and brown, black or skin-colored spots. Usually are round or oval with regular borders.
Texture: It can be smooth, rough, or even hairy. Location: Can be found anywhere on the body.
Cause: Clusters of pigmented cells; genetic or due to sun exposure.
Are they dangerous?: Mostly benign, but new or changing moles may signal melanoma. Also read | Obesity's effect on skin: Doctor shares 7 skin conditions to be aware of and prevention tips to stay safe
Red flags: Asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter >6mm, and evolving shape or size.
Treatment: Suspicious moles should be examined immediately, and the removal might be cosmetic or precautionary.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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