Most skin growths are benign and harmless, but it is essential that a doctor determines this. At times a diagnosis can be made clinically (by the doctor just looking at and touching the growth). However, if the clinical diagnosis is not certain, a biopsy is needed to determine if the growth is benign.

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The majority of benign growths do not require treatment. However, if these lesions cause irritation or other problems, they may require removal to relieve the symptoms. If some of the lesions have changed shape or color or have undergone rapid, irregular growth, they often have to be removed and examined by a pathologist to ensure they are benign. In addition, certain benign growths can indicate a systemic condition, including hormonal disorders.

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The most common benign skin growths are: