Learn why some warts hurt, what can make them tender, and when a dermatologist should evaluate a painful or changing wart.
Tag: Warts & Skin Growths
What Does A Full Body Dermatology Exam Consist Of?
Learn what a full body dermatology exam includes, what to expect, how to prepare, and when to book a skin cancer screening.
Cysts: What They Are and Why They Recur
A cyst can feel unsettling, especially when it appears in a visible area, becomes tender, or seems to come back after it has calmed down. In many cases, a skin cyst is a small pocket beneath the surface of the skin that contains keratin, fluid, or other material. It may grow slowly, stay quiet for… Read more »
Acral Persistent Papular Mucinosis: Waxy, Pearly Bumps on Hands That Never Fade
Small waxy or pearly bumps on the backs of the hands can be easy to ignore, especially when they do not hurt, itch, or change quickly. Acral persistent papular mucinosis is one possible explanation for this type of long-lasting hand bump, but it is not something to self-diagnose from appearance alone. Because several skin conditions… Read more »
Seborrheic Keratosis: Waxy, Stuck-On Lesions That Look Like Barnacles on the Skin
Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common benign skin growths adults notice over time. These spots can look waxy, rough, raised, brown, tan, gray, or almost black, and many people describe them as looking “stuck on” the skin, almost like tiny barnacles. Although seborrheic keratoses are usually harmless, they can be easy to confuse… Read more »
Can You Do Something About the Warts on My Hands?
Yes, a dermatologist can evaluate warts on the hands and talk with you about treatment options. Hand warts are common, and while many are harmless, they can be frustrating when they catch on jewelry, feel rough, spread around the fingers, or make you feel self-conscious in close-up situations. The right next step depends on what… Read more »
Can Skin Cancer Look Like a Pimple?
Yes, skin cancer can sometimes look like a pimple, especially in its early stages. A small bump, shiny spot, sore, or scab that seems harmless at first can occasionally be something more than acne, particularly when it does not heal or keeps returning in the same place. Most pimples improve over time, change as they… Read more »
Are Warts From Bad Hygiene?
No. Warts are not a sign that someone has poor hygiene. Warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus, often called HPV, that can enter the top layer of skin through tiny breaks, irritation, or softened skin. Clean, careful people can still get them. That said, hygiene habits can influence how easily the virus… Read more »
Can You Pop a Cyst or Should You Never Try?
If you’ve noticed a bump under the skin, it’s completely understandable to wonder whether you should squeeze it and get it over with. The short answer is that trying to pop a cyst at home usually is not a good idea. What looks simple on the surface can be more complicated underneath, and squeezing can… Read more »
When a New Growth Needs Prompt Evaluation
Not every new bump, spot, or raised area is dangerous. Many are benign growths that come with age, sun exposure, friction, or normal skin changes. Still, a brand-new growth can sometimes deserve prompt attention, especially if it looks different from your other spots or seems to be changing quickly. In general, a new growth deserves… Read more »

