Skin Lesions: Types, Causes, and What to Do When You Notice Them

When you see a new spot, bump, or change on your skin, it’s natural to wonder: is this something serious? A skin lesion, any abnormal area of skin that differs in color, texture, or shape from surrounding tissue. Also known as skin abnormality, it can be as simple as a pimple or as concerning as early-stage skin cancer. Skin lesions aren’t a disease themselves—they’re a sign something else is going on. They show up because of infections, allergies, autoimmune reactions, sun damage, or even genetics. What matters most isn’t the name, but whether it’s changing, growing, or bothering you.

Some common types include rashes, red, itchy patches often caused by contact with irritants or allergens, like poison ivy or eczema. Others are moles, pigmented spots that are usually harmless but can turn into melanoma. Then there are skin infections, bacterial, viral, or fungal growths like impetigo, warts, or ringworm. And don’t ignore skin cancer, a potentially deadly condition that starts as a strange spot that won’t go away. The key is knowing the difference between what’s normal for you and what’s new or strange.

What to Watch For

Not every skin lesion needs a doctor. A pimple that clears in a week? Fine. But if a spot keeps growing, bleeds without injury, changes color, or looks asymmetrical with uneven borders, that’s a red flag. The ABCDE rule helps: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving over time. These signs often point to melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Sun exposure is the biggest risk factor, but genetics and immune health play roles too. Even people with dark skin can get skin cancer—it just shows up differently, often on palms, soles, or under nails.

Some lesions are linked to internal problems. A sudden rash could mean a reaction to a new medication. A patch that won’t heal might signal diabetes or poor circulation. Shingles starts as a painful, blistering lesion along a nerve path. And fungal infections like athlete’s foot often spread to nails or other skin areas. What you see on the surface might be a clue to something deeper.

In the posts below, you’ll find real-world guides on how to identify common skin issues, what treatments actually work, and when to skip the drugstore cream and see a professional. Some cover how certain medications can trigger rashes. Others explain how to tell the difference between harmless bumps and dangerous growths. You’ll also find advice on managing skin conditions linked to chronic diseases, and how to protect yourself from sun damage that leads to lesions over time. No fluff. Just clear, practical info to help you understand what’s happening on your skin—and what to do next.