Skin tags, warts, moles, and corns are common skin conditions that can affect individuals of all ages. While they are typically harmless, they can cause discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or become irritated. Knowing the causes and characteristics of each condition can help you understand the best treatment options.
Causes and Characteristics:
- Skin Tags:
- What Are They? Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that hang off the skin. They are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and can appear on various parts of the body, including the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids.
- Causes: Skin tags are formed when clusters of collagen and blood vessels become trapped inside thicker pieces of skin. They are more common in individuals with diabetes, those who are overweight, and in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
- Warts:
- What Are They? Warts are rough, raised bumps caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, feet (plantar warts), and face.
- Causes: Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the top layer of skin. The virus is contagious and can spread through direct contact with a wart or by touching surfaces that have come into contact with the virus.
- Moles:
- What Are They? Moles are skin growths that are typically brown or black due to a high concentration of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Moles can be flat or raised and vary in size and shape.
- Causes: Moles are formed when melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment, grow in clusters rather than being spread throughout the skin. They can be present at birth or develop over time due to genetic factors or sun exposure.
- Corns:
- What Are They? Corns are hardened, thickened areas of skin that typically develop on the feet or toes due to repeated friction or pressure. They are usually smaller than calluses and have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin.
- Causes: Corns are caused by excessive pressure or friction on specific areas of the skin, often due to wearing ill-fitting shoes, abnormal gait, or other factors that cause increased stress on the feet.