Skin · 4 min read · Updated · Prepared by Dr Roohi's Skin & Hair Clinic
Telling them apart
- Skin tags — soft, skin-coloured flaps on the neck, underarms or eyelids, common with friction and weight gain.
- Moles — brown or black spots made of pigment cells; most are harmless.
- Warts — rough growths caused by a virus; they can spread to other areas or people.
- DPN (dermatosis papulosa nigra) — small dark bumps on the face, common in Indian skin.
When a mole needs checking
Dermatologists use the ABCDE signs: Asymmetry, irregular Border, uneven Colour, Diameter larger than about 6 mm, and Evolving (changing) over time. A mole that bleeds, itches or changes should be examined promptly.
Safe removal with RF cautery
Radiofrequency cautery removes growths precisely after local numbing. Small crusts form and fall off in about a week. Because the dermatologist examines every growth before removal, anything unusual is assessed properly rather than simply removed.
Frequently asked questions
Are warts contagious?
Yes. Warts are caused by a virus and can spread by touch or shaving. Early treatment helps stop them spreading.
This guide is general health information, not a diagnosis. Skin and hair conditions vary from person to person — please consult a dermatologist before starting any treatment or medicine.