Is It a Skin Tag or a Wart? Here’s How to Know the Difference

If you’ve ever done a double take in the mirror after spotting a strange little bump on your skin, you’re not alone. Whether it’s a soft, fleshy nub on your neck or a rough patch on your finger, it’s easy to wonder Is that a skin tag or a wart?

Both are incredibly common and usually harmless, but knowing the difference between the two can help you treat them correctly and avoid spreading anything contagious in the case of warts. Here's how to tell them apart and what to do next.

Skin Tags vs. Warts: What’s the Difference?

While they may look similar at first glance, skin tags and warts are very different in origin and treatment.

Skin tags, or acrochordons, are benign skin growths that typically develop in areas of friction, like your neck, armpits, or under your breasts. They’re soft, smooth, and often the same color as your skin. Most skin tags are painless and harmless, though they can become irritated if rubbed by clothing or jewelry.

Warts, on the other hand, are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), making them contagious. They can appear anywhere on the body, especially hands and feet, and may be flat or raised, smooth or rough. Unlike skin tags, warts often have a scaly or crusty texture and a thicker appearance.

Quick comparison:

• Skin tags: Soft, skin-colored or pink, usually found in areas of friction; non-contagious

• Warts: Thick, rough or smooth, caused by HPV; contagious and may spread

Why They Appear

Skin tags form due to skin rubbing against skin or clothing. Factors like weight gain, insulin resistance, pregnancy, and metabolic syndrome can increase your risk.

Warts occur when HPV enters through tiny cuts or cracks in the skin. Children and people with weakened immune systems tend to be more susceptible. Some strains of HPV that cause warts can be associated with cancer, but the most common types are low-risk and benign.

How to Treat or Remove Them

For skin tags:

• See a dermatologist if they’re irritated, painful, or in a sensitive area like near the eyes.

• Removal methods include freezing (cryosurgery), cutting (snip removal), or electrosurgery.

• Don’t attempt to remove them at home DIY methods can lead to infection or scarring.

For warts:

• Warts can go away on their own, but this may take a year or more.

• Dermatologists may recommend cryotherapy, chemical peels, blistering agents like cantharidin, or minor surgical removal.

• Over-the-counter options with salicylic acid are available but require consistent use over weeks.

• Because they’re contagious, take precautions to avoid spreading them—don’t share razors or towels, and keep hands clean and cuts covered.

When to See a Doctor

Seek professional care if:

• A skin tag becomes painful, bleeds, or affects your vision

• A wart is not responding to treatment or is spreading

• You’re unsure what type of growth you’re dealing with

• You suddenly develop many skin tags at once (this could indicate a hormonal issue)

Common Questions

Can you use wart remover on a skin tag?
No. Wart removers contain acids that can cause irritation or scarring without effectively removing the tag.

Are skin tags caused by HPV?
While some studies have found HPV in certain skin tags, they are not considered contagious and generally don’t require concern.

Are skin tags a sign of something serious?
Most skin tags are harmless, but a sudden increase in their number could be linked to insulin resistance or hormonal imbalance talk to your doctor if you're seeing a cluster of new tags.

Skin changes are a natural part of life, and not every bump needs to spark alarm. But when in doubt, checking in with a healthcare provider can offer peace of mind and help you keep your skin healthy and happy.

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