Skin tags are a common, harmless skin condition that often go unnoticed by many individuals. These small, soft growths can appear anywhere on the body, but are most frequently found in areas where the skin folds or rubs together, such as the neck, armpits, and groin.
While they may resemble a wart, skin tags are not related to the human papillomavirus and are, instead, considered benign tumors.
The prevalence of skin tags is quite high, with studies suggesting that almost half of the population will develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime.
They are particularly common among middle-aged adults and individuals who are overweight or obese. Despite their prevalence, skin tags are usually harmless and do not cause any pain or discomfort.
However, they can be a source of cosmetic concern for some people, especially if they appear in noticeable or bothersome areas.
In this article, we will explore the causes and risk factors associated with skin tags, as well as how they can be effectively managed and removed.
How Do I know if a Mole Is Cancer?
Moles, also known as skin tags, are common and most of the time harmless. However, in few cases, they can be a sign of skin cancer. It is critical to regularly check your body, including areas like underarms where moles often go unnoticed, for any changes in the size, shape, color, or texture–these could indicate a problem.
If a mole is asymmetrical, has irregular or ragged borders, contains different colors, or has a diameter larger than the size of a pencil eraser, you should contact a healthcare professional.
Additionally, any new mole or skin tag that appears out of nowhere especially after the age of 25, or a pre-existing one that begins to evolve or change in any way, should be examined.
To remember these signs, dermatologists use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry, Borders, Color, Diameter, Evolving. Remember, even though skin tags are harmless, screening and early detection save lives.
Types of Moles
Moles are small skin lesions or growths of varying types, shapes, and colors found anywhere on the body. They can be categorized into three main types: Junctional melanocytic nevi, Dermal melanocytic nevi, and Compound nevi.
Junctional melanocytic nevi are smooth, pigmented areas usually found on the skin’s surface, and they tend to be dark brown or black.
On the other hand, Dermal melanocytic nevi typically protrude from the skin and may be flesh-colored, brown, or tan. The third type, Compound nevi, are a combination of the first two types, appearing raised and often light brown to dark brown in color.
Some people are born with moles, while others may develop them over time due to sun exposure or hormonal changes.
While most moles are benign, it is crucial to monitor them for changes in size, color, shape, or symptom such as itching or bleeding, as these could be signs of a potentially harmful condition like melanoma.
Causes of skin tags
Skin tags are small, benign growths that primarily appear in areas of the body where the skin rubs together, such as the eyelids, armpits, under the breasts, neck and groin.
Although the exact causes of skin tags are not completely understood, they are believed to be associated with several factors.
First, they are more common in people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, suggesting that there’s a link between skin tags and insulin levels.
Second, skin tags are also thought to be caused by friction or skin rubbing against skin, which is why they often develop in skin creases or folds. Hormonal changes and obesity are other potential contributing factors.
Although they are harmless, they can be annoying and may be cosmetically unattractive, leading some people to seek skin tag removal processes.
These could involve surgical removal, freezing or burning off. It’s always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for skin tag removal to avoid any risks or complications.
Are skin tags common in pregnancy?
Yes, developing skin tags are quite common during pregnancy. It’s a period of significant hormonal changes that can take a toll on a woman’s body in many ways, including an increased risk for skin tags.
Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, painless skin growths that usually occur on the neck, underarms, or groins.
Pregnant women seem to have a higher likelihood of experiencing these skin changes due to hormonal fluctuations, increased weight, and skin friction.
Although harmless, some women may find skin tags annoying or cosmetically undesirable. It’s important to note that not all pregnant women will develop skin tags, and those who do, the tags may disappear on their own following childbirth.
However, if these growths cause discomfort or if they do not disappear after pregnancy, a dermatologist can safely and effectively remove them.
Are skin tags normal as you age?
Yes, it is normal to notice the development of skin tags as you age. Skin tags, which are soft, noncancerous growths that usually form on the skin’s surface, tend to proliferate with age. They’re often attached to the skin by a stalk, a thin filament that connects them to the skin’s surface.
While they’re benign and don’t usually cause symptoms, they can become irritated due to rubbing against clothing, jewelry, or the surrounding skin, leading to discomfort or pain.
Their color can vary from flesh-colored to slightly darker, and their size can range from a pinhead to a pea.
It is also common for a person to have numerous skin tags at once. Despite their harmless nature, any change in color, size, or inflammation, could indicate a more serious stipulation and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Hence, while skin tags are typically a normal part of aging, they do require attention if they become problematic.
Are skin tags common on face?
Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are among the common skin conditions that many people may not be overly aware of. Usually harmless, skin tags are small, soft growths that often form within skin folds or creases.
These tiny protrusions can appear almost anywhere on the body, but are they common on the face? Although skin tags are more commonly found on the neck, underarms, or groin area, it’s not unusual to find them on one’s face, particularly around the eyelids or under the chin.
However, the prevalence on the face is typically less compared to areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Despite their appearance, skin tags are generally benign and don’t indicate any underlying medical condition.
Still, if they’re causing discomfort or cosmetic concerns, one should consult a dermatologist. It’s important to be informed about skin tags and other skin conditions to maintain good skin health.
Why am I getting skin tags?
Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are soft, non-cancerous growths that typically develop in areas where the skin folds or creases, like your neck, armpits, or groin.
Despite their strange appearance, it’s important to know about skin tags and understand that they are generally harmless and don’t typically require medical treatment unless they become irritated or affect your self-esteem.
Skin tags usually appear the same color as your skin, but can occasionally darken due to friction or aging.
While the precise cause of skin tags remains unknown, potential risk factors can include genetic predisposition, obesity, hormonal changes during pregnancy, and diabetes.
If your skin tags are causing discomfort or you simply want them removed for cosmetic reasons, your healthcare provider can eliminate them through a variety of methods, including cryosurgery.
Cryosurgery is a technique where extreme cold temperatures are used to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue, such as skin tags.
Should I remove a skin tag?
Deciding whether to remove skin tags is a personal choice that depends upon the location, size, number, and potential discomfort associated with this common skin condition.
A skin tag may often go unnoticed unless it is located in an area where it becomes irritated by friction or constant touching. Common causes skin tags include aging, hormonal fluctuations, friction from tight clothing, and sometimes, even shaving can result in skin tags.
The removal of skin tags is typically straightforward and can be done by a dermatologist. However, it is crucial to remember it’s not medically necessary as skin tags are usually harmless, non-cancerous growths.
You might want to remove skin tags when they are affecting your confidence, continually getting caught in your clothes or jewelry, causing pain and discomfort, or if you simply don’t like the look of them.
Discussing with a healthcare provider can be quite helpful before making a decision. They would inspect the skin tag, possibly perform a biopsy to rule out other conditions, and determine the safest and most effective removal method depending upon your situation.