Skin tags and warts are two types of skin growth that many people deal with, but they are not the same. Both can look similar at first and even appear in overlapping areas. Knowing how to tell them apart is important, as their causes, treatments, and whether or not they are contagious are very different.
Did you know that about half of all adults will get at least one skin tag in their lifetime? On the other hand, warts, caused by a virus, affect up to 10% of the population. Since they are so common, it’s helpful to understand what you’re looking at and how to treat it.
If you’ve been wondering things like, is a skin tag a wart, and how can you tell the difference—here is a guide to identify these skin growths and decide when it’s time to see a dermatologist.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags, or acrochordons, are tiny, soft growths that form on the skin’s surface. They’re completely harmless and don’t spread to other people, but they can still be annoying, especially if they rub against clothing or skin.
How Do Skin Tags Look and Feel?
What They Look Like
Skin tags are small and flesh-colored or a bit darker, like a tan or light brown. They often hang off the skin, almost like a tiny balloon on a string. Their size can vary from a few millimeters (the size of a grain of rice) to about 2 centimeters (like a raisin).
How They Feel
If you touch a skin tag, it feels soft and smooth. They bend easily when you press them, but they might get sore if they twist or pull on delicate areas of the skin.
Where You’ll Find Them
Skin tags usually show up in spots where skin folds or rubs together—like the neck, underarms, or groin. Women often notice them under the breasts, and they can also occur on eyelids or near the waistline.
What Causes Skin Tags?
Friction is a big culprit. When skin rubs against itself or clothes, it can create these tiny flaps of skin. Hormonal changes, like during pregnancy, can also increase the chance of developing skin tags. People with diabetes or extra weight are more prone to them too, but they can happen to anyone.
What Are Warts?
Warts are also small growths, but they’re caused by something entirely different—a virus. Specifically, warts develop because of an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Unlike skin tags, warts can spread to other people or even other parts of your body.
How Do Warts Look and Feel?
What They Look Like
Warts are usually rough-textured and might feel bumpy, similar to sandpaper. Some warts cluster together, giving them a cauliflower-like appearance, while others may just be one flat or raised patch. They can range in size from tiny pinpricks to larger growths about the size of a pencil eraser.
How They Feel
While some warts don’t hurt, others might feel tender, especially on pressure points like the feet. For example, plantar warts (found on the soles of your feet) can feel like you’re walking on a tiny pebble.
Where You’ll Find Them
Warts can pop up almost anywhere. They’re common on hands, feet, knees, and elbows. On the face, they often appear as flat warts that blend with your skin tone. Genital warts, caused by a specific HPV strain, occur in sensitive areas and should always be checked by a doctor.
What Causes Warts?
Warts are caused by HPV, which enters your skin through tiny cuts or scratches. Sharing items like towels, razors, or shoes with someone who has warts can spread them. While anyone can get warts, kids and people with weaker immune systems are more at risk.
How to Tell the Difference Between Skin Tags and Warts
If you’re wondering if it’s a skin tag or wart, here’s what to look for.
| Feature | Skin Tags | Warts |
| What Causes Them? | Friction, hormones, or health conditions | HPV, a contagious virus |
| How Do They Look? | Smooth, soft, flesh-colored; dangles from the skin | Rough, bumpy, can resemble cauliflower |
| Are They Contagious? | No | Yes |
| Do They Hurt? | Not usually, unless pulled or twisted | Sometimes, may feel rough or tender |
| Common Locations | Neck, underarms, groin, folds of skin | Hands, feet, elbows, knees, face, genitals |
If you see something on your face, pay special attention. Skin tags on the face are most commonly around the eyelids and will be soft dangly pieces of skin. A wart on the face may look like a flat, rough spot or a small bump that doesn’t feel soft.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Sometimes it’s tricky to know for sure whether that growth is a skin tag or wart. Here’s when it’s wise to seek professional advice:
- If the spot changes quickly, like growing in size, changing color, or becoming irregular.
- If it’s painful, itchy, or bleeding, especially if you haven’t irritated it through rubbing or pressure.
- If you suspect it’s a wart and want to prevent spreading it to other people or areas on your body.
A dermatologist can confirm what you’re dealing with and recommend safe, effective treatments.
Treatment Options for Skin Tags and Warts
For Skin Tags
Skin tags don’t need treatment unless they’re bothering you. But if you want to remove them for comfort or appearance, options include freezing them off (cryotherapy), cutting them off with sterilized tools, or using an electrical probe to burn them away. These are quick in-office procedures with little to no downtime.
For Warts
Since warts are caused by a virus, treating them often takes more effort. Doctors may use cryotherapy, prescription creams, or even laser treatments to get rid of stubborn warts. Over-the-counter remedies work for some people but can take weeks.
Avoid trying to cut or remove warts at home—it can make the virus spread.
Tips to Prevent Skin Tags and Warts
While you can’t always stop these growths from forming, here are a few things that might help reduce your risk.
Skin Tag Prevention
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid rubbing your skin.
- Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in areas that tend to sweat.
- Consider addressing health conditions, like high blood sugar, that may increase your chances of developing skin tags.
Wart Prevention
- Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, or shoes.
- Wear flip-flops in public showers or pools to protect your feet from plantar warts.
- Wash your hands often, especially if you come into contact with someone else’s warts.
Spot the Difference: Your Skin Deserves Clarity
Understanding the difference between a skin tag and a wart can save you time and stress when dealing with unexpected skin growths. Skin tags are harmless and caused by things like friction or hormones, while warts are contagious and stem from a viral infection.
If you’re unsure about growth, don’t guess. A dermatologist can quickly identify the issue and suggest the best course of action, whether it’s removing a skin tag or treating a wart. When in doubt, it’s always better to be safe and check in with a professional. Taking care of your skin helps you feel comfortable and confident every day!