She Strengthens

The Lowdown on Skin Tags: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Are you wondering why you’re suddenly sporting a skin tag or two? Don’t worry, these tiny growths are harmless and extremely common. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 50% of adults will develop at least one skin tag during their lifetime.

What Are Skin Tags, Anyway?

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, noncancerous growths that can pop up anywhere on your skin. They’re usually the same color as your skin, but can sometimes be a little darker. Skin tags typically dangle from the skin on a stalk called a peduncle and feel soft and smooth to the touch.

Common Areas for Skin Tags

Skin tags tend to develop in areas where the skin folds or creases, such as:

• Armpits
• Eyelids
• Neck
• Under the breasts
• Thigh or groin areas
• Genitals

What Causes Skin Tags?

While the exact cause of skin tags is still unclear, they’re thought to be linked to skin friction or a buildup of collagen fibers and blood vessels. Certain factors can increase your chances of developing skin tags, including:

• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Certain types of human papillomavirus
• Family history of skin tags
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome or other skin disorders

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Unless you experience irritation from rubbing against your clothes, jewelry, or body, you likely won’t have any symptoms associated with skin tags. Your doctor will typically perform a quick evaluation to diagnose a skin tag, which may involve examining the area and asking about your family history.

Treatment and Removal Options

While skin tags are harmless, they can be uncomfortable or unsightly. If you’re bothered by a skin tag, you can opt for professional removal by a dermatologist or try at-home treatments. Professional options include:

• Cutting or shaving the tag off with a scalpel or other sharp medical instrument
• Using heat to cauterize the skin tag
• Using liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag off
• Cutting off blood circulation to the skin tag, causing it to fall off

At-home treatments include over-the-counter patches, creams, or freezing kits, as well as natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, or iodine. However, DIY removal methods carry risks, such as bleeding, scarring, infection, and damage to surrounding skin.

Preventing Skin Tags

While you can’t completely eliminate the risk of developing skin tags, you can take steps to reduce your chances:

• Avoid clothing or accessories that may irritate your skin
• Maintain a moderate weight
• Exercise regularly

Frequently Asked Questions

• What causes skin tags? Skin tags are likely caused by skin friction or a buildup of collagen fibers and blood vessels.
• Are skin tags common? Yes, skin tags are very common, affecting nearly 50% of adults.
• What does it mean if I have skin tags? Skin tags are harmless and usually don’t indicate any underlying health issues.
• Can I remove skin tags at home? Yes, but DIY removal methods carry risks, and professional removal by a dermatologist is often safer and more effective.
• Can skin tags come back after treatment? Professionally removed skin tags usually won’t return, but new ones can form in the future.