Skin Tags (Acrochordons)

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, benign growths that hang from the skin. They are typically harmless and do not cause any symptoms unless they become irritated or inflamed.

What are Skin Tags?

Skin tags are small, soft, and flesh-colored growths that are usually around 1-5 mm in size. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found in areas where skin folds occur, such as:

• Neck
• Armpits
• Groin
• Under the breasts
• On the eyelids

Symptoms of Skin Tags

The symptoms of skin tags are usually minimal, but may include:

• A small, soft growth that hangs from the skin
• A flesh-colored or slightly darker growth
• A growth that is usually around 1-5 mm in size
• Multiple growths in the same area
• Irritation or inflammation if the growth becomes rubbed or caught on clothing
• Bleeding or scarring if the growth is scratched or torn off

Causes of Skin Tags

The exact cause of skin tags is not known, but they are thought to be related to:

• Friction and irritation from skin rubbing against skin or clothing
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy
• Obesity
• Aging
• Genetics
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Treatments for Skin Tags

There are several treatment options available for skin tags, including:

• Cryotherapy: freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen to remove it
• Excision: cutting off the growth with scissors or a scalpel
• Cauterization: burning off the growth with an electric current
• Ligation: tying off the base of the growth with thread to cut off blood supply
• Topical creams and ointments: applying creams or ointments to help remove the growth
• Home removal kits: using over-the-counter kits to remove the growth at home

Prevention of Skin Tags

To prevent skin tags from forming, it is recommended to:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid tight clothing that can cause friction and irritation
• Keep the skin clean and dry
• Avoid excessive rubbing or scratching of the skin

Complications of Skin Tags

While skin tags are usually harmless, they can become irritated or inflamed if they become rubbed or caught on clothing. In rare cases, skin tags can:

• Bleed or become infected
• Scarring or keloid formation
• Interfere with daily activities or cause discomfort

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are skin tags?
Small, benign growths that hang from the skin, typically found in areas where skin folds occur.

Where do skin tags usually appear?
Commonly on the neck, armpits, groin, and under the breasts.

Are skin tags contagious?
No, they are not contagious or infectious.

Can skin tags be cancerous?
Rarely, but it is typically unlikely, and most are benign.

What causes skin tags to form?
Possibly due to friction, aging, obesity, or genetic factors, but the exact cause is unclear.

How are skin tags diagnosed?
Typically through visual examination by a healthcare professional.

Can skin tags be removed at home?
Not recommended, as this can lead to infection or scarring.

What are common removal methods for skin tags?
Surgical excision, cryotherapy, or cauterization, typically performed by a healthcare professional.

Do skin tags usually require treatment?
Often not necessary unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

Can skin tags recur after removal?
Possibly, as the underlying factors that led to their formation may still be present.