Conditions
Skin Growths
Remove Unwanted Lesions
Many adults have one or more skin growths that they would like to have removed, whether for cosmetic reasons or because they cause physical discomfort. While most skin growths are benign and do not require medical treatment, it is important to monitor for symptoms, like bleeding, itching, or inflammation, which can indicate a potential issue. If you have concerns about a growth, consulting a professional can provide clarity and appropriate treatment options.
At Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C., our team offers a thorough assessment of skin lesions and discusses the best removal methods based on your unique needs. Whether you are looking to address an atypical mole or an unwanted skin tag, you can trust the expertise of a seasoned dermatologist for safe and effective care. Contact Cosmedica Dermatology today to schedule your consultation and learn more about the available treatment options for skin growths.
What Are Skin Growths?
Skin growths are lesions or raised areas that appear different from the surrounding skin and can develop anywhere on the face or body. While many are harmless, some may change over time and require medical evaluation. Growths can vary widely in size, color, and texture, ranging from small, soft tags of skin to pigmented moles or firm, wart-like lesions. Because certain growths may signal a risk of skin cancer, regular monitoring and clinical assessment are essential for maintaining skin health. For patients in the Washington, D.C. area, Cosmedica Dermatology offers comprehensive assessments of skin growths and can determine if a biopsy is necessary.
What Are Types of Skin Growths?
Skin growths can take many forms, ranging from completely harmless to potentially concerning. Moles are pigmented clusters of skin cells that are usually benign, though changes in color, shape, or size may signal melanoma risk. Skin tags are soft, flesh-colored projections that often appear in areas of friction, such as the neck, underarms, or groin. Warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), typically present as rough, raised lesions on the hands, feet, or face. Other common growths include seborrheic keratoses (waxy, wart-like lesions that may resemble melanoma but are benign), epidermoid cysts (firm nodules beneath the skin), and lipomas (soft, fatty lumps that are noncancerous). Because different lesions can look similar, professional evaluation is essential. For patients in Washington, D.C., dermatologic assessment at Cosmedica Dermatology helps distinguish harmless skin growths from those that may require biopsy or removal, ensuring both safety and peace of mind.
How Are Skin Growths Treated?
Skin growth treatment depends on the type of lesion, its location, and whether it poses a medical risk. Suspicious or precancerous growths are often removed through surgical excision to ensure complete clearance and allow for microscopic evaluation. Benign growths may be addressed with procedures such as shave excision, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or topical medications, depending on their characteristics.
For moles and other pigmented lesions, dermatologists use the ABCDE criteria to assess for features that may suggest melanoma:
Asymmetry – one half of the mole does not match the other.
Border – irregular, blurred, or scalloped edges.
Color – variations within a single lesion, including shades of tan, brown, black, red, or blue.
Diameter – larger than six millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
Evolving – any change in size, shape, color, or new symptoms such as itching or bleeding.
Regular self-examinations and professional dermatologic checkups support early detection, allowing for timely and effective treatment. For patients in Washington, D.C., evaluation at Cosmedica Dermatology ensures that both benign and potentially concerning skin growths are managed with evidence-based care and physician expertise. Trust your skin to expert dermatologic care. Book an appointment at Cosmedica Dermatology in Washington, D.C., for professional evaluation and treatment of skin growths.