Warts and skin tags can look similar, but they are different growths. Warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) and often feel rough or firm. Skin tags are soft, benign growths that commonly form where skin rubs against skin, clothing or jewelry.
Skin tag vs. wart: how can you tell the difference?
- Texture: Warts often have a rough or bumpy surface. Skin tags are usually soft and smooth.
- Shape: Skin tags often hang from a small stalk. Warts are usually attached more broadly to the skin.
- Cause: Warts are viral. Skin tags are not caused by HPV.
- Typical locations: Warts commonly occur on the hands, fingers, feet, knees and other sites. Skin tags often occur on the neck, eyelids, underarms and groin.
- Spread: Warts can spread to nearby skin or other people. Skin tags are not contagious.
What do warts look like?
Common warts may be skin-colored, gray, brown or darker and often have a rough surface. Plantar warts occur on the soles of the feet and may become painful from pressure. Flat and filiform warts can look different from classic common warts, so appearance alone is not always enough for diagnosis.
What do skin tags look like?
Skin tags are usually small, soft growths that may be skin-colored, pink or darker. They often develop on the neck or in other areas of friction. They are harmless, although they can become irritated by clothing, jewelry or shaving.
Can I use wart remover on a skin tag?
No. Wart-removal products are not intended for skin tags and can injure normal skin. If you are not certain what a growth is, have it examined before trying to remove it at home.
How are warts and skin tags removed?
Depending on the diagnosis and location, office treatment may include cryotherapy, electrodesiccation, curettage, snip removal or other methods. Warts may require more than one treatment and can recur. Cosmetic skin-tag removal may not be covered by insurance.
A growth that is changing, bleeding, painful, rapidly enlarging, unusually pigmented or simply uncertain should be evaluated before destruction. See our wart and skin tag removal page or Book Appointment.