How is a tumor defined in esthetics?

In esthetics, a tumor is typically defined as an abnormal mass of tissue that can arise from various types of cells, including cancer cells. When discussing the definition in the context of esthetics, it’s essential to recognize that tumors can be benign or malignant.

While a mass of cancer cells is indeed classified as a tumor, the broader understanding is that a tumor does not always have to be malignant or primarily associated with cancer. Tumors can also refer to benign growths, which do not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize.

In this context, knowing that a tumor signifies an abnormal growth of cells—particularly cancer cells—is critical for estheticians as they may encounter various skin conditions that require awareness of potential risks associated with skin tumors. Understanding tumors includes differentiating between types of growths and their implications for treatment and client safety.