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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Skin Tags and Warts?

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Skin tags and warts are both common non-cancerous skin growths, but they have several differences:

Skin Tags:

  • Soft, fleshy growths often attached to a fleshy stalk.
  • Color can be skin-colored, brown, or red.
  • Generally harmless and not contagious.
  • Caused by unknown factors, may be related to frequent skin friction, metabolic or genetic conditions.
  • Can be removed through sterile scissors or shaving off with a sharp blade.

Warts:

  • Caused by a viral infection, specifically the human papillomavirus (HPV).
  • Rough, broad-based patches of thick skin.
  • Contagious and can spread to other people or parts of the body.
  • Can be painful or uncomfortable, especially if located on a weight-bearing part of the body.
  • Need to be examined by a healthcare professional to decide the correct treatment.

In summary, warts are caused by a viral infection and are often rough and bumpy in texture, while skin tags are soft, fleshy growths that usually occur in areas where the skin rubs against itself or clothing. Although skin tags are not likely to cause pain or discomfort, it is recommended to schedule a visit for removal. Warts need to be examined by a healthcare professional to decide the correct treatment.

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  • What is the Difference Between Skin Tags and Warts?
  • Comparative Table: Skin Tags vs Warts

    • Comparative Table: Skin Tags vs Warts

    Here is a table summarizing the differences between skin tags and warts:

    Feature Skin Tags Warts
    Appearance Soft, outgrowths attached to the skin surface by a stalk, often smooth and flesh-colored or slightly darker than the surrounding skin. Rough, scaly, and bumpy in texture, with distinct margins, usually skin-toned, tan, or brown in color.
    Size Typically range from one to five millimeters in size, though some may reach up to two centimeters. Vary in size, but can be broad-based and deep.
    Location Commonly found in areas where the skin rubs against itself or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and under the folds of the buttocks. Often appear on hands, knees, feet, and genital areas.
    Causes Not caused by a virus, but may occur in people who are obese, have type 2 diabetes, or experience hormonal changes. Caused by a viral infection, specifically the human papillomavirus (HPV).
    Contagious Not contagious. Contagious, can spread to other people or other parts of the body.
    Treatment Not scientifically-proven topical treatments, but can be removed through surgical excision, cryotherapy, or shaving. Need to be examined by a healthcare professional to decide the correct treatment.

    Remember to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment of skin tags and warts.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.