Skin tags vs warts vs moles: How to tell the difference
As an oculoplastic and facial aesthetic surgeon, I often encounter several patients who are concerned about small growths on the face and eyelid region. While some of these are harmless, some may require medical attention or removal for cosmetic or functional reasons.
Among these common concerns are- Skin tags, warts and moles, which are three seemingly similar concept that in reality are quite different from each other in terms of origin, appearance and risk. Having a proper understanding of how to differentiate among them helps in making informed decisions about the treatment and removal.
1. Skin Tags: Soft, Harmless, and Common
What they are:
Skin Tags also known as Acrochordons are soft, benign skin growths that develop in areas where there is friction between two skin surfaces or with clothing- like the neck, eyelids, underarms and groin.
They are usually flesh- coloured or slightly darker and hang off the skin by a thin stalk (pendunculated).
How they feel and look:
They are usually small, soft, and movable
Often shaped like a tiny balloon on a stalk
Usually painless unless irritated by friction or jewellery
Why they appear:
They are commonly found in middle- aged or overweight individuals and those with diabetes. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can also trigger them.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
You Won't Believe the Price of These Dubai Apartments
Binghatti Developers FZE
Get Offer
Undo
Treatment:
Although, skin tags are mostly harmless and don't require removal until and unless they are irritated or are cosmetically bothersome. Removal methods include- cryotherapy (freezing), snip excision, or electrocautery, all of which are quick and in- clinic procedures.
2. Warts: Caused by a Virus
What they are:
Caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV), warts are rough, raised growths. They are contagious and can spread through skin- to- skin contact or by sharing personal items like razors or towels.
How they feel and look:
They are rough, firm, and grainy texture
May appear grayish, brown, or flesh-colored
Often have tiny black dots (clotted blood vessels) on the surface
Why they appear:
Warts are commonly found in children and in people with weakened immune systems. It can develop anywhere, but are particularly bothersome around the eyes or face due to aesthetic reasons.
Treatment:
Since warts are viral, treatment aims at removing the growth and controlling the recurrence.
Treatment options include cryotherapy, laser ablation, topical acids, or electrosurgery. In delicate areas like the eyelids, surgical excision by an oculoplastic surgeon helps in ensuring the safety and minimizes the risk of scarring.
3. Moles: Pigmented and Potentially Risky
What they are:
Nevi or moles refer to pigmented skin cells that cluster together. They are mostly benign but some can also develop into melanoma a type of skin cancer especially if they change in size, colour or shape.
How they feel and look:
Usually brown or black, but can be flesh-colored or pink
May be flat or raised
Can be round, oval, or irregular in shape
Why they appear:
Moles can be present from birth or can develop due to sun exposure and genetic factors. They usually appear during childhood or adolescence but can change over time. For understanding it's warning signs, we follow the ABCDE rule which is- asymmetry, Border irregularity, color change or multiple colours, a diameter over 6mm, changing shape, size and symptoms which can cause itching and bleeding.
Treatment:
While benign moles do not necessarily require removal, suspicious ones should be examined by a dermatologist or surgeon. Excision with biopsy acts as the golden standard for diagnosis. When on the eyelids or face, precision is essential for preserving aesthetics and function making oculoplastic evaluation especially valuable.
Conclusion
While skin tags, warts and moles might appear similar, their causes and implications vary significantly. In my practice, especially when these growths are on or around the delicate eye area, accurate diagnosis is extremely crucial not just for aesthetic purposes but for overall skin health. If you are unsure about a skin growth or notice any changes, make sure that you seek a professional evaluation. It's always better to be cautious about your skin and more importantly your eyes, as they deserve expert care.
By Dr. Sneha Shah, Oculoplastic & Facial Aesthetic Surgeon
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
35 minutes ago
- Time of India
Popular artificial sweetener linked to brain cell damage and stroke risk; Natural sweeteners to use as sugar substitutes
Can you keep up with your sweet treat indulgences while keeping the guilt at bay? Turns out, with artificial sweeteners, you can. But what if that very solution becomes a rather bigger problem in the long run? Artificial sweeteners promised sweetness without the guilt. However, new research is now raising serious questions. A recent study from the University of Colorado Boulder has raised concerns about erythritol, a common sugar substitute often marketed to people with diabetes. Used in popular brands like Wholesome, Truvia, and Splenda, erythritol was once thought to be one of the best sweeteners due to its sweetness without significant effects on insulin or blood sugar levels. However, new findings suggest it may pose more risks than benefits. Read on to know more. What does the study say? In a new study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology , researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder found that erythritol can harm brain cells and increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. Following earlier findings that showed a connection between higher levels of erythritol in the bloodstream and increased risks of stroke and heart attack, Professor Christopher DeSouza and graduate student Auburn Berry aimed to dive deeper into this concerning trend. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo In their lab experiments, they treated brain blood vessel cells with the amount of erythritol found in a typical sugar-free drink. They discovered that these cells displayed lower levels of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps relax and widen blood vessels. At the same time, they had higher levels of endothelin-1, a protein that constricts blood vessels. What are the key findings? The lab-based research revealed that the sweetened cells produced lots of "free radicals," which can cause inflammation and aging in cells, and showed a significantly muted response to a compound called thrombin, which assists in clot formation. In simple terms, the cells were not functioning as they should have. Berry explained in a press release., 'Big picture, if your vessels are more constricted and your ability to break down blood clots is lowered, your risk of stroke goes up.' These worrying effects were seen even with the erythritol from just one sugar-free drink. As DeSouza cautioned, for those consuming multiple drinks daily, the consequences could be even more severe, advising, "Given the epidemiological study that inspired our work, and now our cellular findings, we believe it would be prudent for people to monitor their consumption of non-nutrient-sweeteners such as this one. " DeSouza also suggested checking food labels for erythritol, also known as "sugar alcohol." This is especially important since people with diabetes already face double the risk of stroke compared to those without diabetes. What is erythritol? Erythritol is an organic compound, the naturally occurring achiral meso four-carbon sugar alcohol. It is the reduced form of either D- or L-erythrose and one of the two reduced forms of erythrulose. It is used as a food additive and sugar substitute. It is synthesized from corn using enzymes and fermentation. Created during the corn fermentation process, erythritol, an organic compound used for so-called "stevia" products sold by the brands Wholesome, Truvia, and Splenda, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration back in 2001. Since then, erythritol has been considered one of the best sweeteners on the market because of its near-sugar-level sweetness that barely affects insulin or blood sugar in diabetics. What are the alternatives? As erythritol is proving to be a 'sweet poison', it's better to opt for natural sweeteners as alternatives. Raw honey: Raw, unprocessed honey is packed with antioxidants, enzymes, and trace vitamins (B6, C), along with minerals such as zinc, iron, and potassium—much more nutritious than regular sugar. Mix into yogurt, herbal tea, homemade granola, or drizzle over pancakes. Use about ¾ cup of honey for every cup of sugar, but reduce the surrounding liquids and include a pinch of baking soda to balance the acidity. Pure maple syrup: Rich in antioxidants and essential minerals like manganese, zinc, and calcium, providing recipes with an appealing earthy sweetness. Replace ¾ cup of sugar with syrup, reducing about 3–4 tablespoons of liquid. Pour over oatmeal, toast, smoothies, or incorporate into marinades and dressings. Date syrup or date sugar: Made from whole dates, this sweetener is high in potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, plus fiber that slows the absorption of sugar. Add date syrup to smoothies or use as a natural syrup, or utilize date sugar in baking. Note that it may not dissolve completely, but it provides texture and caramel flavor. Coconut Sugar: It has caramel undertones and is less refined than white sugar. It contains small amounts of iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, and inulin fiber. Substitute cup-for-cup in recipes; ideal for cookies, cakes, and coffee, bringing that warm sweetness. Moderation is still key. Blackstrap molasses / Jaggery: Blackstrap molasses offers iron, calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins; jaggery provides iron, potassium, magnesium, and a rich caramel flavor. Bold and intense, molasses offers a robust flavor profile; jaggery delivers earthy caramel. Combine with gingerbread, BBQ marinades, chai, or break into porridges, using it sparingly as a flavor enhancer. Monk fruit (Luo Han Guo): Monk fruit from Southeast Asia produces mogrosides, natural antioxidants yielding 150–300 times the sweetness without calories, and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Sprinkle in teas, salad dressings, and baked goods. Since it lacks bulk, pair with bulking agents if necessary. Yacon syrup and allulose: Yacon syrup is a prebiotic substance from the Andes that is high in inulin and FOS; it has half the calories and a caramel flavor while supporting gut health. Allulose is a unique sugar that mimics the taste and texture of sugar, has negligible calories, does not cause an insulin spike, and may help with weight management. Low-calorie sweetener can also improve gut health: Study
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
How to quiet an overthinking mind
We've all been there, lying in bed at night, with our thoughts racing like a movie reel that we can't turn off. Overthinking is mentally exhausting and emotionally draining. It makes small problems feel bigger, blurs out clarity, and keeps us stuck in cycles of what-ifs and what not. And while thinking things through can be helpful, constantly looping over the same thoughts only brings more chaos and confusion. The truth is, actually, overthinking doesn't come from a bad place. It's often our brain's way of trying to protect us by wanting to solve, prepare, or control what feels uncertain. However, it often leaves us feeling more anxious and disconnected from the present. Learning how to quiet the noise isn't about neglecting our thoughts completely or avoiding responsibility. It's about creating enough space in our minds to hear ourselves clearly, make better decisions, and breathe a little easier. Here are some simple but powerful ways to calm an overthinking mind: Know what is happening around you The first step to keep the cyclic thoughts away is to help your mind to notice it's happening. Say to yourself, 'I'm overthinking right now,' without judgment. Just naming it creates distance from the thoughts. Instead of getting caught up in the swirl, you become a gentle observer. This pause alone can help start moving away from anxious thinking. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Many Are Watching Tariffs - Few Are Watching What Nvidia Just Launched Seeking Alpha Read More Undo It's all in the head Overthinking lives in the mind, but calmness lives in the body. Shifting the attention to physical sensations like the breath, feet on the floor, and the feeling of your clothes against your skin. Even a few deep belly breaths can ground you and interrupt the thought spiral. The more one returns to the present moment, the quieter the mind becomes. Give your thoughts a time slot The brain is trying to help you, but just at the wrong time. Instead of pushing thoughts away, give them a container. Set a 10–15 minute 'worry window' each day. Let yourself write or think freely during that time, then close the window. This practice gives your mind permission to rest, knowing it will be heard later. Challenge the fear! Overthinking often spins stories based on fear, not facts. One must try to ask themselves,: 'Is this true? Do I have evidence? What else might be true?' You'll often find your thoughts are assumptions, not reality. Rearranging them with kindness and curiosity can ease anxiety and help to make more real and correct choices. Do something small and real Overthinking lives in inaction. To break the cycle, take a small, meaningful step, such as sending the email, going for a walk, or making the call. Doing something physical or purposeful brings you back to the present and shifts your energy. Sadhguru explains how to stop overthinking
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
No gym? No problem: Just 3-minutes of daily hustle could slash your heart risk, says surprising study
In the modern world of desk jobs, quick deliveries, and elevator rides, exercise often becomes a scheduled event — an hour at the gym, a morning run, or a weekend yoga class. But what if heart health didn't hinge on routine workouts at all? What if the simple, fleeting movements you make while living your everyday life — climbing stairs, scrubbing floors, briskly walking to catch a cab — were quietly safeguarding your heart? A groundbreaking study titled ' Dose Response of Incidental Physical Activity Against Cardiovascular Events and Mortality ' suggests just that. And its findings are as surprising as they are empowering: as little as three minutes a day of moderate activity — without any structured exercise — could significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Finance Cybersecurity Data Science Data Science healthcare Technology Data Analytics Others Healthcare Product Management Degree Project Management PGDM others Design Thinking Public Policy Leadership Digital Marketing Artificial Intelligence CXO MCA Management MBA Skills you'll gain: Duration: 9 Months IIM Calcutta SEPO - IIMC CFO India Starts on undefined Get Details Skills you'll gain: Duration: 7 Months S P Jain Institute of Management and Research CERT-SPJIMR Fintech & Blockchain India Starts on undefined Get Details The Science Hidden in Your Daily Hustle The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Sydney 's Charles Perkins Centre, examined over 24,000 adults between the ages of 40 and 79. None of them were regular exercisers. Each participant wore a wrist accelerometer to monitor daily activity — not workouts, but the unintentional movements that often go unnoticed: rushing for a meeting, carrying shopping bags, mopping floors. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Senior Living Homes in New Market May Surprise You Senior Living | Search Ads Undo What they found was startling. People who engaged in even brief episodes of moderate to vigorous incidental physical activity (IPA) had up to 50% lower risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes. 'Incidental physical activity is what we do on autopilot,' explains Dr. Emmanuel Stamatakis, the lead researcher, in an interview with Good Housekeeping. 'From commuting and house chores to taking the stairs — it all counts.' — DrKristieLeong (@DrKristieLeong) And while only a small fraction of Americans hit the recommended 150 minutes of weekly structured exercise, this study offers a breath of relief: you don't need a gym membership to protect your heart — just a little effort in your daily rhythm. You Might Also Like: Top cardiologist calls out 'fake wellness' habits we mistake for health: 'Your heart isn't confused, it is exhausted' How Little Is Enough? The numbers reveal a hopeful story. Just 4.6 minutes of vigorous IPA or 23.8 minutes of moderate IPA daily — while doing things like pushing a lawnmower, lifting boxes, or power-cleaning your kitchen — can slash your cardiovascular risk. Even one minute of vigorous movement is roughly equivalent to three minutes of moderate movement or 35–48 minutes of light effort, such as leisurely walking. In essence, three minutes of heart-pumping chore work daily could be your most underrated health insurance. Every Movement Counts The study challenges the idea that only structured workouts matter. 'Know that no movement is wasted and all of it counts,' says Dr. Stamatakis. 'Use every chance in life to move — take the stairs, walk briskly, carry your groceries with intention.' To gauge your movement intensity, Stamatakis offers a simple test: if you can sing, the activity is light; if you can talk but not sing, it's moderate; and if you can neither talk nor sing, you're hitting vigorous intensity — and your heart is thanking you for it. You Might Also Like: Harvard study says your brain's fate may lie in your heart's health: 4 lifestyle changes to slow down brain and heart ageing This research reframes the very idea of fitness. In a time-starved society, where 30-minute workouts often feel like a luxury, the hope lies in our hidden efforts — the quick dashes, the lifting, the housework. What we've long overlooked may quietly be protecting our most vital organ.
