If you’ve noticed a small, firm, flesh-colored bump on your nose or somewhere on the face that just won’t go away, you aren’t alone. Many people mistake these for common moles. However, these stubborn spots can often be fibrous papules, which are a benign skin growth. Incredibly common but equally frequently misunderstood.
What is the Difference? Mole or Fibrous Papule
It’s easy to see why they get confused, but under the surface, they are quite different.
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Moles: These are made of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells). They are usually brown or tan in colour although can also be skin coloured. These can change shape or colour over time. Because they involve pigment cells, they require monitoring for potential health risks such as development into Melanoma.
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Fibrous Papules: These are essentially a localised overgrowth of collagen, fibrous tissue, and tiny blood vessels. They are typically dome-shaped, skin-colored, or sometimes slightly reddish, and tend to feel much firmer than a mole. Most importantly, they are completely harmless and do not carry a risk of becoming cancerous.
Given the above information, I will always ask you to have these blemsihes check ny your GP to confirm they are in agreement that it is one or the other and whichever one it is, it is benign.
Why Opt for Reduction?
While fibrous papules are medically insignificant, they often appear in prominent areas like the tip or side of the nose. I find clients who come to me with these are unhappy with the appearance or feel conscious of them.
Reduction of fibrous papules is a quick, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses diathermy, where an electrical current generates heat that helps me desiccate the blemish to reduce it.
Below is a lovely before and 6-week post-treatment image of Fibrous Papule Reduction.
