Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are common, small, soft skin growths that can appear on various parts of your body. While they are generally harmless and don’t pose a health risk, many people find them bothersome or cosmetically unappealing. If you’ve noticed these growths and are wondering, “Why Do You Get Skin Tags?”, you’re not alone. This article will delve into the reasons behind skin tag development, when removal might be necessary, and how dermatologists safely remove them.
What are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are benign tumors of the skin, meaning they are noncancerous. They typically appear as small, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths that protrude from the skin’s surface. Their size can vary from a few millimeters to a centimeter or larger. Some skin tags are attached to the skin by a thin stalk (pedunculated), while others are flatter and more firmly attached. They can sometimes be pink or become red if irritated.
Skin tags are frequently found in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Common locations include:
- Neck creases
- Eyelids
- Underarms (armpits)
- Groin
- Beneath the breasts
They can also appear on the sides, abdomen, or back.
Why Skin Tags Develop?
The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but they are thought to develop due to friction or skin rubbing against skin. This explains why they are commonly found in skin folds and creases. Several factors can increase your likelihood of developing skin tags:
- Skin Friction: Areas where skin repeatedly rubs together are prone to skin tag formation. This can be due to skin folds, clothing, or jewelry.
- Overweight or Obesity: People who are overweight or obese often have more skin folds, increasing skin-on-skin friction.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and weight gain during pregnancy can also lead to increased skin folds and friction, making skin tags more common.
- Loose Skin: As skin loses elasticity with age, it can create folds and increase friction.
- Diabetes and Insulin Resistance: Studies have shown a link between skin tags and conditions like diabetes and insulin resistance. Metabolic syndrome, characterized by high blood pressure, unhealthy blood sugar levels, excess abdominal fat, and unhealthy cholesterol levels, is also associated with a higher risk of skin tags.
- Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing skin tags. If you have family members with skin tags, you are more likely to develop them yourself.
- Age: Skin tags become more common with age, particularly after middle age.
It’s important to remember that skin tags are benign and not contagious. They are simply a common skin condition that many people experience.
When Should You Remove a Skin Tag?
Since skin tags are harmless, removal is usually not medically necessary. However, there are several reasons why you might consider having a skin tag removed:
- Irritation or Bleeding: Skin tags can become irritated from rubbing against clothing, jewelry, or seatbelts. Shaving can also irritate or cause them to bleed, especially if nicked.
- Discomfort or Pain: Although typically painless, a skin tag can become uncomfortable or even painful if it gets twisted or irritated.
- Vision Obstruction: Skin tags on the eyelids can grow large enough to interfere with eyesight.
- Cosmetic Reasons: Many people choose to remove skin tags simply because they dislike their appearance or find them unsightly.
It’s worth noting that if you suddenly develop many skin tags, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist. While rare, a sudden eruption of skin tags could, in some cases, be associated with underlying internal conditions. A dermatologist can properly diagnose your skin growths and rule out any other potential issues.
A man points to an irritated skin tag on his neck, highlighting a reason for skin tag removal due to discomfort.
If you decide to remove a skin tag for cosmetic reasons, it’s important to be aware that insurance companies typically consider this a cosmetic procedure and may not cover the cost.
How Dermatologists Remove Skin Tags
Dermatologists are experts in skin conditions and can safely and effectively remove skin tags in their office. The removal process is usually quick, often done in a single visit, and generally doesn’t require a follow-up appointment. The specific method used will depend on the size, location, and other characteristics of the skin tag. Common dermatologist-performed skin tag removal methods include:
- Cryosurgery: This technique involves freezing the skin tag using liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold destroys the tissue. Cryosurgery may cause a blister or scab to form, which will eventually fall off, taking the skin tag with it. Sometimes, the dermatologist will freeze the base of the skin tag and then snip it off with sterile surgical scissors or a blade.
- Electrodesiccation: In this procedure, a tiny needle-like electrode is used to deliver an electric current to the skin tag, destroying it. Electrodesiccation results in a scab that will heal within one to three weeks.
- Snip Excision: For this method, the dermatologist will numb the area around the skin tag with a local anesthetic. Then, using sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel, the skin tag is carefully cut off. A solution is applied to stop any bleeding.
After any of these procedures, your dermatologist will provide aftercare instructions. This may include keeping the area clean and bandaged for a short period to prevent infection. It’s crucial to follow these instructions to ensure proper healing.
Why Avoid At-Home Skin Tag Removal Products?
While there are various over-the-counter products marketed for at-home skin tag removal, dermatologists and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advise against using them. These products, often containing chemicals to freeze or burn off the skin tag, are not FDA-approved for skin tag removal.
Using unapproved at-home removal methods can lead to several risks, including:
- Skin Irritation and Damage: These products can irritate and damage the surrounding healthy skin.
- Infection: Improper removal techniques can increase the risk of infection.
- Scarring: At-home removal can result in scarring, especially if not done correctly.
- Misdiagnosis: You might misidentify a skin tag and attempt to treat a different skin condition, such as a wart or even a mole that could be concerning.
Wart removers, in particular, should not be used on skin tags. Wart removers contain strong medications designed for hard warts, and they can damage the soft tissue of a skin tag, leading to irritation and potential scarring.
Multiple skin tags on a person’s skin, illustrating the sudden development of skin tags as a symptom requiring medical consultation.
The Peace of Mind of Seeing a Dermatologist
Skin tags can vary in appearance, and it’s easy to mistake them for other skin growths, including warts or even skin cancer in rare cases. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist provides peace of mind. Dermatologists have the expertise to accurately diagnose skin conditions and differentiate between harmless skin tags and potentially serious growths. If you are concerned about a skin growth, or if you are considering skin tag removal, seeing a dermatologist is the safest and most reliable course of action. They can provide accurate diagnosis, safe and effective removal options, and ensure your skin health.
References
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