A seal is a discolored, raised area of the skin that can be either flat or raised. It can be smooth or scaly and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. It usually develops gradually, beginning as a small, firm lump that may become larger and thicker over time. It can be a single seal or multiple seals that may be of different shapes and sizes. Seals may be itchy, tender, or painful, and can be red, purple, or brown in color. They may be caused by a variety of conditions, including infections, allergies, or cancer.