Raised skin bumps are incredibly common and can appear anywhere on the body, from the face and neck to the trunk and limbs. They vary greatly in size, appearance, and underlying cause. While many lumps or bumps on the skin are harmless, others can signal more serious health concerns that may require prompt medical attention. Knowing how to recognise different types of bumps and what they may indicate can help you stay informed about your skin health.

We will explore a wide range of raised skin bumps, from common benign lesions such as sebaceous cysts to potentially more concerning lumps such as skin cancers. The aim is to provide you with detailed information in clear, straightforward language, so you feel more confident identifying the bumps on your skin and deciding what steps to take next. You should always consult a skin specialist or GP if you have any concerns about any skin lesions.

What Are Raised Skin Bumps?

Raised skin bumps are protrusions, lumps, or swelling on the surface of the skin. They can appear in various shapes, colours, and textures. Some bumps are soft and movable under the skin, while others feel firm or even hard to the touch. They can be painless, itchy, or occasionally tender or painful.

Many people experience at least one type of raised skin bump at some point in their lives. Common reasons for their appearance include:

• Blocked pores or glands (e.g., sebaceous cysts)
• Overgrowth of skin tissue (e.g., dermatofibromas, keloids)
• Skin infections (e.g., boils, warts)
• Allergic reactions or inflammation
• Lipomas (benign tumours of fatty tissue)
• Skin cancers (e.g., basal cell carcinoma, melanoma)

Common Causes of Raised Skin Bumps

The term “raised skin bumps” is broad, many different conditions or factors can cause them. Some of the most common include:

1. Sebaceous Cysts (Epidermoid Cysts) These are benign cysts that typically form when hair follicles or oil glands (sebaceous glands) become blocked. They appear as round or oval lumps beneath the skin, often with a central punctum (a small opening). Sebaceous cysts can remain stable in size or gradually enlarge. If they become infected, they may turn red, swell, or become painful.
2. Lipomas Lipomas are soft, fatty lumps that often develop between the skin and the muscle layer beneath. They grow slowly and are generally painless, although they can occasionally become uncomfortable if they press on surrounding nerves or tissues.
3. Dermatofibromas Dermatofibromas are small, firm bumps that typically appear on the legs or arms. They are thought to develop in response to minor trauma or insect bites. They tend to be harmless, but some people choose to have them removed if they are painful or cosmetically unappealing.
4. Keratosis Pilaris Also known as “chicken skin,” keratosis pilaris causes small, rough bumps on the skin, especially on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, or cheeks. It arises when keratin—a protein found in skin—builds up and plugs hair follicles. Although harmless, some find it bothersome from a cosmetic perspective.
5. Boils and Abscesses A boil, or furuncle, is typically a red, swollen, painful bump that often develops because of a bacterial infection (commonly Staphylococcus aureus) in a hair follicle or oil gland. When multiple boils cluster together, this is known as a carbuncle. If the infection becomes severe, an abscess may form, which is a collection of pus that needs draining.
6. Warts Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts are rough, grainy skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body but are especially common on hands, feet, and the genital area (though genital warts are a separate subtype of HPV). They are contagious and can spread through direct or indirect contact.
7. Skin Tags These small, soft, flesh-coloured growths often form where the skin folds or rubs together, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Skin tags are harmless but can be easily removed if they catch on clothing or cause discomfort.
8. Insect Bites Mosquitoes, bed bugs, fleas, and other insects can leave itchy, raised lumps on the skin. These bumps typically subside over a few days, although some people may experience more pronounced swelling due to allergies.
9. Allergic Reactions (Hives) Hives, or urticaria, are itchy welts that can appear in response to allergens, stress, temperature changes, or infections. They can vary in size and location and sometimes merge to form larger areas of swelling.
10. Skin Cancers Although most raised bumps are benign, certain types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, can present as raised lesions. Changes in shape, size, or colour, or any bleeding or crusting, should be taken seriously.

Identifying the Characteristics of Raised Skin Bumps

Accurate identification of a raised bump can be challenging, as multiple conditions may share similar traits. However, paying attention to a few distinguishing characteristics can help guide you:

• Texture: Is the bump soft and spongy (e.g., lipoma) or firm (e.g., dermatofibroma)?
• Mobility: Does the lump move when you press it? Sebaceous cysts can sometimes shift under your fingertips, whereas others are fixed.
• Colour: Raised bumps may be flesh-coloured, red, brown, or even black in some cases (like certain moles or pigmented basal cell carcinomas).
• Size: Small bumps like skin tags or dermatofibromas are usually a few millimetres, while lipomas and cysts can be larger.
• Symptoms: Pain, tenderness, itchiness, or discharge (from boils or infected cysts) can help pinpoint the cause.
• Location: Certain bumps appear in specific body areas. For instance, keratosis pilaris commonly affects the upper arms, thighs, or cheeks.

Whenever you notice a new bump or changes in an existing one, consider keeping track of these characteristics. If you have concerns, you can discuss your observations with a GP, plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or other skin specialist.

Common Benign Raised Bumps

Many raised skin bumps are benign, meaning they pose no immediate health risk. While benign lumps can sometimes cause discomfort, particularly if they grow large or become irritated, treatment is often optional. Below, we explore some of the most common benign bumps in more detail.

Sebaceous (Epidermoid) Cysts

• Appearance: Round lump with a visible central “punctum”.
• Cause: Blocked oil glands or hair follicles.
• Treatment: May require excision if infected or causing discomfort; smaller cysts might be monitored.

Lipomas

• Appearance: Soft, doughy, and moveable under the skin.
• Cause: Overgrowth of fatty tissue, often with a genetic component.
• Treatment: Removal by surgical excision or liposuction if bothersome or large.

Dermatofibromas

• Appearance: Firm, small, sometimes pigmented bumps. Can dimple inwards when pinched.
• Cause: Reaction to minor skin trauma (e.g., insect bite).
• Treatment: Typically require no treatment unless they cause pain, itching, or cosmetic concerns.

Skin Tags

• Appearance: Small, soft, skin-coloured growths that hang off the skin.
• Cause: Friction in skin folds, hormonal changes.
• Treatment: Snipping, cryotherapy, or cauterisation if removal is desired.

Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is another benign skin condition that can cause numerous tiny, rough bumps on the surface of the skin. Although harmless, it can occasionally be mistaken for other issues:

• How It Forms: Excess keratin in the skin blocks hair follicles, resulting in a bump or “plug.”
• Common Sites: Upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and cheeks.
• Appearance: Skin can feel rough, similar to sandpaper. Sometimes redness or irritation occurs.
• Management:
  • Regularly exfoliating with gentle scrubs or creams that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), lactic acid, or urea.
  • Keeping the skin moisturised to reduce dryness.
  • Using mild soaps and lukewarm water instead of hot showers.

With consistent skincare, many people notice improvements in the texture and appearance of their skin.

Infectious Bumps: Boils, Abscesses, and Warts

Boils and Abscesses

Bacterial infections in hair follicles or sebaceous glands can lead to the formation of boils or abscesses. When the infection progresses, you may observe:

• Redness, swelling, and pain at the site.
• A hot sensation around the bump.
• A build-up of pus under the skin.

If a boil does not improve or becomes significantly more painful, medical intervention might be required to drain it and prescribe antibiotics.

Warts

Warts result from the human papillomavirus (HPV). Depending on the subtype of HPV, warts can appear in different forms, such as:

• Common warts (on hands, fingers)
• Plantar warts (on feet)
• Flat warts (often on the face or legs)
• Genital warts (in the genital area)

Treatments for warts can include salicylic acid applications, cryotherapy (freezing), or prescription creams. Warts are contagious, so covering them and avoiding picking can help limit spread.

When Raised Skin Bumps May Be a Cause for Concern

While most raised skin bumps are benign, there are certain signs that may suggest a more serious condition, such as skin cancer. It is important to observe for:

• Rapid changes in size
• Irregular borders
• Multiple colours within a single bump
• Bleeding, oozing, or crust formation
• Persistent itching or pain
• Development of open sores that do not heal

The ABCDE rule—commonly used for moles—can also be beneficial when examining suspicious lumps or bumps:

• A for Asymmetry (one half of the lesion differs from the other)
• B for Border irregularity (poorly defined or ragged edges)
• C for Colour (shades of brown, black, red, white in one area)
• D for Diameter (larger than 6 mm, though skin cancer can also be smaller)
• E for Evolving (changes in size, shape, or colour, or new symptoms like bleeding or itching)

If you notice any of these warning signs, please book an appointment with your GP.

Types of Skin Cancer that Present as Raised Bumps

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinomas are the most common form of skin cancer. They typically appear as small, pearly or waxy bumps that can develop telangiectasia (small blood vessels) on the surface. BCCs are slow-growing and often form in sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, or ears. Though less likely to metastasise, they can become locally invasive if neglected.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

SCCs may appear as firm, red nodules or scaly patches. They can ulcerate or bleed and frequently develop on sun-exposed areas, like the lips, ears, and hands. SCCs have a higher chance of spreading compared to BCCs, making early detection crucial.

Melanoma

Although commonly associated with dark, pigmented moles, melanoma can also present as a raised bump on the skin. Melanomas typically have irregular borders, multiple colours, and can sometimes bleed. They can develop anywhere on the body, even in areas with minimal sun exposure. Suspected melanomas need urgent referral to the NHS dermatology department for evaluation and diagnosis.

Risk Factors for Developing Raised Skin Bumps

Some individuals are more prone to skin growths or lumps because of various risk factors, which can include:

• Genetics: Family history of certain conditions, like lipomas or familial skin cancers.
• Sun Exposure: Chronic sun exposure increases the risk of various skin lesions, including actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions) and skin cancers.
• Age: As people get older, benign skin lesions (e.g., seborrhoeic keratoses) and some cancers become more common.
• Medical Conditions: Immune-compromising conditions, diabetes, or chronic skin conditions can increase susceptibility to infections or unusual growths.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnant women may be more prone to skin tags or changes in moles.

Diagnosing Raised Skin Bumps

If you are concerned about a raised skin bump, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. A healthcare professional, such as a GP or dermatologist, will likely perform the following:

1. Medical History: They might ask about your personal and family history, how long the bump has been present, and any related symptoms.
2. Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the size, shape, texture, and colour of the bump.
3. Dermatoscopic Evaluation: A dermatoscope can help visualise pigmented lesions more clearly, aiding diagnosis.
4. Biopsy: If a suspicious bump cannot be definitively diagnosed through inspection alone, a biopsy may be performed. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is taken and examined in a laboratory to rule out malignancies.

Treatment Options for Raised Skin Bumps

The management of raised skin bumps depends primarily on the underlying cause, symptoms, and patient preferences. Treatment options can range from simple home care to more involved medical procedures.

Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Treatments

• Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to a boil or an inflamed cyst can help the lesion drain and potentially relieve discomfort.
• Topical Treatments: Warts may respond to over-the-counter salicylic acid preparations. Moisturising creams containing urea, lactic acid, or AHAs can help with keratosis pilaris.
• Good Hygiene: Keeping the area clean and avoiding picking or scratching the bump can help prevent infection.

Prescription Medications

• Antibiotics: For bacterial infections such as boils or abscesses, your doctor may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics.
• Antiviral Medications: Certain warts or molluscum contagiosum may respond to antiviral creams, although this is less common.
• Retinoids: Prescription creams containing retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) may help improve skin turnover for conditions like keratosis pilaris or acne-related bumps.

Minor Surgical Procedures

• Excision or Drainage: If a cyst becomes infected or a boil does not resolve on its own, minor surgery under local anaesthetic can remove or drain the lesion.
• Shave Excision or Cryotherapy: Skin tags or raised benign lesions (e.g., some dermatofibromas) can be removed via quick in-office procedures. Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze off warts, tags, or other small bumps.
• Laser Treatments: Certain vascular lesions or stubborn warts may respond to laser therapy that targets abnormal blood vessels or tissue.

Treatment for Skin Cancer

If a biopsy confirms skin cancer, treatment might involve:

• Surgical Excision: Removing the lesion and a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
• Mohs Surgery: A highly precise surgical technique often used for basal cell carcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas, particularly in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face.
• Topical Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy: For certain superficial skin cancers, medicated creams may be prescribed.
• Radiotherapy: Occasionally used if surgery is not possible or the patient’s medical status precludes more invasive treatments.

Potential Complications of Raised Skin Bumps

Though often harmless, raised skin bumps can lead to complications if not managed properly:

• Infection: A sebaceous cyst, boil, or abscess can become infected, resulting in pain, fever, and the possible spread of infection.
• Scarring: Picking at bumps, or repeated trauma to them, may lead to scarring or hyperpigmentation.
• Spread of Virus or Bacteria: Warts and bacterial infections can spread, creating more lesions on your skin or even passing them to others.
• Pain and Discomfort: Larger bumps can rub against clothing or cause discomfort, especially when located on pressure points such as the feet.

Early intervention, appropriate medical care, and good hygiene can reduce these risks.

Preventive Measures and Self-Care

While not all raised skin bumps can be prevented—especially those influenced by genetics—there are measures you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Sun Protection: Limit your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing (wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, long sleeves).
2. Healthy Diet and Hydration: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports skin health. Staying well-hydrated maintains skin elasticity.
3. Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can lead to friction areas where skin tags develop.
4. Proper Skin Hygiene: Cleanse gently, especially if you are prone to boils or cysts. Use lukewarm water and mild soap to avoid irritating the skin.
5. Avoid Picking: Scratching or squeezing bumps can cause infection or scarring.
6. Check Your Skin Regularly: Conduct monthly self-examinations to note changes in existing moles or lumps, and be vigilant about new bumps.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Raised skin bumps might seem minor, but medical consultation is recommended if you notice:

• Sudden growth or changes in a bump’s size or shape.
• Irregular or poorly defined borders on a pigmented lesion.
• Persistent pain, itching, or bleeding.
• Signs of infection (e.g., redness, warmth, pus).
• The bump simply does not heal or continues to grow.

Your GP may refer you to a dermatologist for expert evaluation. Early diagnosis can make a considerable difference, especially if the bump is cancerous or requires specialist treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are raised skin bumps always serious?

Not always. Many raised skin bumps, such as sebaceous cysts or skin tags, are benign. However, new or changing bumps should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out malignancies or infections.

Can I pop or squeeze a boil or cyst at home?

It is generally best to avoid popping boils or cysts, as it can push the infection deeper into the tissues or cause scarring. Warm compresses and good hygiene are safer approaches. If the bump does not improve or worsens, seek medical advice.

How are skin tags removed?

Skin tags may be snipped off with sterile scissors or scalpel, frozen with liquid nitrogen, or cauterised using heat. Removal usually takes place under local anaesthetic or sometimes no anaesthetic if very small.

Should I be worried if a bump is painful?

Pain might indicate infection or inflammation. Monitor for additional signs like redness, swelling, or pus. If these are present, consult a healthcare professional for assessment and possible treatment.

Can raised skin bumps heal on their own?

Some bumps, like hives or insect bites, often resolve without medical intervention. Others, like warts or cysts, may persist unless treated. Keeping an eye on the lesion and seeking professional advice if needed is the safest approach.

Conclusion

Raised skin bumps vary widely in cause and appearance, and many are harmless. Nevertheless, staying informed about these growths empowers you to take charge of your skin health and ensure timely medical attention when necessary. If you ever feel uncertain about a specific bump—or if it appears suspicious, changes in appearance, or causes discomfort—contact a GP or dermatologist for an expert opinion.

A proactive approach to skin care, including sun protection, regular self-examinations, and healthy lifestyle habits, can significantly lower your risk of serious skin conditions. In addition, maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals ensures you receive the right advice, diagnosis, and treatment options. Whether your raised skin bumps turn out to be benign cysts, persistent warts, or something more concerning, understanding your condition is the first step toward managing it effectively. At CLNQ, our team of skin doctors is available to help diagnose and treat skin lumps and bumps in our clinics in Manchester and Knutsford Cheshire.