What are skin lumps?

Skin lumps are any areas of abnormally raised skin. The lumps may be hard and rigid, or soft and moveable. Swelling from injury is one common form of skin lump.

Most skin lumps are benign, meaning they’re not cancerous. Skin lumps are generally not dangerous, and usually don’t interfere with your everyday life. Talk to your healthcare provider or dermatologist if you’re worried about any abnormal growths on your skin.

Possible causes of skin lumps

Skin lumps can be caused by a number of health conditions that range in severity. Common types and causes of skin lumps include:

• trauma
• acne
• moles
• warts
• pockets of infection, such as abscesses and boils
• cancerous growths
• cysts
• corns
• allergic reactions, including hives
• swollen lymph nodes
• childhood illnesses, like chickenpox