Care for Skin Growths in Phoenix, AZ
Safe, effective treatment for a wide range of noncancerous skin growths.
Benign Skin Growths: Types, Causes & Dermatologic Treatments
Benign skin growths are noncancerous lesions that appear on the skin in various forms. While most are harmless and do not require treatment, some can become irritated, infected, or raise cosmetic concerns.
At Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in identifying, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of skin growths with expertise and care.
What are Benign Skin Growths?
Benign skin growths are
noncancerous abnormalities of the skin that may develop due to genetics, environmental exposure, aging, or infections. These growths vary in appearance—some are raised, others flat; some are skin-colored, while others are pigmented. Although benign, certain growths can resemble skin cancer and should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Common Types of Noncancerous Growths
Below are the most frequently diagnosed benign skin growths:
1. Skin Cysts
Learn More →Appearance: Yellow or white lumps, sometimes with a central dark spot
Symptoms: Often painless but may become inflamed or infected
Treatment: Surgical drainage or removal if bothersome
Epidermoid Cysts
Found on face, neck, and trunk
Filled with dead skin cells
Common in young to middle-aged adults
Pilar Cysts
Develop in hair follicles, usually on the scalp
More common in women
Genetic predisposition
2. Lipomas
Learn More →Description: Slow-growing tumors of fat cells encased in a capsule
Location: Typically appear on the back, shoulders, neck, or head
Symptoms: Soft, movable, usually painless
Note: Most common in adults 40–60 years old
3. Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Learn MoreAppearance: Shiny, flesh-colored or yellow bumps
Location: Common on face, especially forehead and nose
Cause: Enlargement of oil glands
Demographics: Middle-aged to elderly individuals
4. Seborrheic Keratoses (SKs)
Appearance: Waxy, wart-like, “pasted-on” tan, brown, or black lesions
Location: Face, chest, shoulders, back
Symptoms: May itch or become irritated if picked
Note: Not related to sun exposure, but tends to run in families
5. Keloids
Learn More →Description: Excessive scar tissue extending beyond the original wound
Symptoms: Itchy, painful, cosmetically concerning
Risk: Can develop up to a year after injury or surgery
Common Locations: Shoulders, chest, earlobes, and upper back
6. Moles (Nevi)
Appearance: Pigmented lesions, can be flat or raised
Colors: Brown, black, red, pink, blue, or skin-colored
Location: Anywhere, including scalp and between toes
Note: Changes in size, color, or shape may indicate melanoma—seek evaluation immediately
7. Cherry Angiomas
Appearance: Bright red, small papules
Location: Trunk, arms, chest, face
Cause: Overgrowth of blood vessels
Demographics: Common after age 30
8. Skin Tags (Acrochordons)
Learn More →Appearance: Soft, flesh-colored growths on a stalk
Location: Neck, armpits, groin
Symptoms: May become irritated by clothing or jewelry
9. Milia
Appearance: Small, white or yellow cysts
Location: Common on the face
Cause: Trapped dead skin cells, often triggered by occlusive skincare, sun damage, or acne
Note: Asymptomatic but can be cosmetically bothersome
When to See a Dermatologist
While many benign growths require no treatment, you should consult a board-certified dermatologist if:
- A growth changes in
size, color, shape, or texture
- It begins to
itch, bleed, or hurt
- It causes
cosmetic concerns or irritation
- You’re unsure if it’s benign or something more serious
Early detection is crucial, especially to
rule out skin cancer. Conditions like melanoma can resemble benign growths but are life-threatening if untreated.
Treatment Options for Benign Skin Growths
Treatment is usually quick and effective, often performed in-office. Options include:
- Surgical excision (removal with stitches)
- Electrosurgery (burning off the lesion)
- Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
- Laser removal for certain vascular or pigmented lesions
- Drainage or curettage for cysts or milia
Our team prioritizes minimal scarring and excellent cosmetic outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Growths
Are all skin growths cancerous?
No, most skin growths are benign and harmless. However, any new, changing, or symptomatic growth should be evaluated to rule out skin cancer.
Will a skin growth go away on its own?
Some growths, like milia or small cysts, may resolve on their own. Others, such as lipomas and keloids, typically require removal if symptomatic or cosmetically concerning.
Do benign growths ever turn cancerous?
Very rarely. Most benign lesions remain noncancerous. However, suspicious changes in a mole or lesion may signal precancerous activity and require prompt evaluation.
Can I remove a skin tag at home?
It’s not recommended. At-home removal can lead to infection or incomplete treatment. Professional removal is safer and more effective.
What causes these growths to form?
Causes vary and may include genetics, aging, blocked follicles, sun exposure, friction, or minor skin injuries.
Trust the Experts in Skin Growth Diagnosis & Treatment
Whether you’re concerned about a new growth, an existing mole, or a recurring cyst, trust the skilled dermatologists at Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. We combine medical expertise with advanced surgical training to ensure your skin health is in the best hands.
Schedule a consultation today to gain peace of mind and personalized care from board-certified experts.
