How to identify skin tags and moles

How to identify skin tags and moles

Identifying skin tags and moles is important for monitoring changes in your skin and for potential medical reasons. Here's how to differentiate between the two:

Skin Tags:

  1. Appearance: Skin tags are small, soft, and usually flesh-colored growths that often hang off the skin by a thin stalk or peduncle. They can range in size from a few millimeters to a centimeter or more.
  2. Location: Skin tags are most commonly found in areas where the skin rubs against other skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and under the breasts. They can also occur on the eyelids, face, and other parts of the body.
  3. Texture: Skin tags are typically smooth and soft to the touch.
  4. Color: They are usually the same color as your skin or slightly darker.

Moles (Nevi):

  1. Appearance: Moles are usually small, round or oval spots on the skin. They can be flat or raised, and their color can vary, but they are often brown or black. They can also be pink, tan, or flesh-colored.
  2. Borders: Moles usually have well-defined borders and are symmetrical in shape. They can be flat or slightly raised.
  3. Size: Moles vary in size but are generally smaller than skin tags. A typical mole is less than 6mm (about 1/4 inch) in diameter.
  4. Evolution: Pay attention to any changes in size, shape, color, or texture of a mole. If a mole starts to change, it may be a sign of a potential issue and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

It's important to note that while most skin tags and moles are harmless, some moles can become cancerous (melanoma). Therefore, it's crucial to monitor your skin and be aware of any changes in the appearance of moles. If you notice any suspicious changes in a mole or if you have any doubts about a skin growth, it's best to consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. They can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, recommend further tests or removal procedures.

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