What That Bump on Your Skin Could Be - And When to See a Dermatologist

We all have little spots and bumps that pop up on our skin over time. But when should you be concerned - and when is it nothing to worry about?

At Naples Dermatology, located in the Park Shore neighborhood of Naples, FL, we see skin growths of all kinds - harmless and otherwise. Some are common and benign, while others may require treatment or removal. Here's a guide to help you understand what that bump might be - and when it's time to schedule an exam.

1. Cyst

What it looks like: A soft, round lump under the skin, often filled with fluid or keratin.
Common areas: Face, neck, back, scalp.
Good to know: Often harmless, but can become inflamed or infected. Dermatologists can drain or remove it if needed.

2. Lipoma

What it looks like: A slow-growing, fatty lump under the skin that’s soft and moveable.
Common areas: Shoulders, arms, thighs.
Good to know: Completely benign, but can be removed if bothersome or growing.

3. Dermatofibroma

What it looks like: A small, firm bump that may feel like a pebble under the skin. It might dimply when pinched.
Common areas: Legs, arms, shoulders.
Good to know: Not dangerous - often the result of minor trauma like an insect bite.

4. Seborrheic Keratosis

What it looks like: Waxy, wart-like, or “stuck-on” brown or black growths.
Common areas: Chest, back, scalp, face.
Good to know: Completely benign, but can be mistaken for skin cancer. Easily removed if irritating.

5. Mole (Nevus)

What it looks like: Brown, black, or flesh-colored spot - flat or raised.
Common areas: Anywhere on the skin.
Good to know: Most are harmless, but changes in color, size, or border can be a red flag.

6. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

What it looks like: A pearly bump, open sore, or pink patch that doesn’t heal.
Common areas: Face, ears, neck, scalp.
Good to know: The most common skin cancer—slow growing and highly treatable when caught early.

7. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

What it looks like: A rough, scaly patch, red bump, or wart-like growth.
Common areas: Hands, face, lips, ears.
Good to know: Can grow and spread if untreated. Often develops from sun-damaged or precancerous skin.

When Should You See Our Dermatologists?

If a bump is:

• Changing in size, color, or shape

• Itchy, painful, or bleeding

• Not healing after several weeks

• Or simply new and you’re unsure…

…it’s time to schedule an expert evaluation. What looks harmless to the eye can sometimes be something more serious.

Trusted Skin Care in Park Shore, Naples

At Naples Dermatology, we specialize in early detection and treatment of skin conditions, from common cysts and moles to skin cancers requiring Mohs surgery or GentleCure Image-Guided SRT.

If you're in the Park Shore area or anywhere in Naples, FL, our board-certified dermatologists are here to help you get peace of mind - and expert care when it counts.