Understanding skin tags: causes, removal, and prevention

Skin tags are among the most common types of benign skin lesions observed in both men and women. These soft, flesh-coloured outgrowths of skin typically develop in areas subject to friction, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, or under the breasts. Although medically harmless, skin tags may cause discomfort when they rub against clothing or jewellery and can be a cosmetic concern for some individuals. While their exact cause is not always known, certain factors may increase the likelihood of their occurrence. That said, various safe and effective methods are available for removing skin tags, if needed. This blog provides an overview of skin tags, their possible causes, and the available treatment options.

What are Skin Tags?

Skin tags or acrochordons are small, soft growths made of loose collagen and blood vessels covered by skin. They typically develop on healthy skin and are classified as non-cancerous. Their surface may be smooth or slightly wrinkled, and they often hang from the skin by a thin stalk. Skin tags are not contagious and usually do not spread from one area to another. Most of them stay the same size once formed, though some may grow larger over time. These growths are considered harmless and do not lead to serious medical problems, but they can occasionally be confused with other types of skin conditions, which is why proper identification is important before removal.

What are the Types of Skin Tags?

Skin tags generally fall under one broad category, but they can vary in appearance depending on size, shape, and texture. Though not medically classified into strict types, they are often described in the following ways based on how they look or develop:

• Small skin tags – These are tiny, soft growths often less than 2 mm wide. They are usually found in clusters on the neck or underarms.
• Filiform skin tags – These tags are long, narrow, and thread-like. They often appear on the face, particularly around the eyelids or neck.
• Large or irregular skin tags – Some may grow larger and develop a more uneven shape. These are more likely to catch on clothing and become irritated.

All skin tags, regardless of type, are benign and do not pose a health risk. However, any growth that changes in colour, shape, or size should be examined to rule out other skin conditions.

What Causes Skin Tags?

Increased skin-to-skin contact creates the kind of environment where skin tags are more likely to appear. In addition to friction, several other factors may contribute to their development:

Friction Between Skin Surfaces

Skin tags commonly form in areas where the skin rubs against itself or clothing. This repeated friction can lead to the development of small growths, especially in places like the neck, armpits, groin, under the breasts, and around the eyelids. These areas are more prone to constant movement and moisture, which may trigger the overgrowth of skin tissue.

Obesity and Increased Skin Folds

Excess body weight can lead to more skin folds and creases, increasing the chances of skin surfaces rubbing together. This frequent contact creates ideal conditions for skin tags to form. Obesity is one of the strongest risk factors, and in such cases, multiple tags may appear in different areas.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, can contribute to the sudden appearance of skin tags. These changes may affect how skin cells grow and repair, making the skin more likely to develop these soft growths. Although pregnancy-related skin tags may disappear after childbirth, some may remain.

Ageing

Skin tags are more common in middle-aged and older adults. As skin loses elasticity over time and becomes more prone to folding, the risk of friction increases. Long-term exposure to friction and other minor skin damage may explain why skin tags become more frequent with age.

Family History

A genetic link may influence the chances of developing skin tags. If close family members have them, there may be a higher likelihood of getting them as well. This tendency can appear even without other contributing factors such as obesity or health conditions.

Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Conditions

People with insulin resistance, such as those with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, often have a higher number of skin tags. Although the exact reason remains unclear, it is thought that insulin-related changes in cell growth may play a role.

Possible Link with HPV

Some studies have detected human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in skin tag samples, suggesting a possible connection. However, this link is not confirmed and remains under investigation. Skin tags are not considered contagious, and the presence of HPV in some cases does not mean it is a cause.

How are Skin Tags Treated or Removed?

Skin tags are harmless and do not require treatment unless they become irritated, catch on clothing, or are considered bothersome in appearance. When removal is preferred, it can be done safely using several methods, most of which are quick and cause minimal discomfort. 

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

This method involves applying liquid nitrogen to the skin tag, which freezes and destroys the tissue. The tag typically falls off within a few days after treatment. Cryotherapy is commonly used in clinics and may require more than one session for larger tags.

Cauterisation (Burning)

Cauterisation uses a device that heats the base of the skin tag to burn it off. The heat seals the tissue, reducing the risk of bleeding or infection. This method is often used for small to medium-sized tags.

Electrocautery (Electric Burn Removal)

Electrocautery uses a small probe with an electric current to burn off the skin tag. The heat generated by the electrical energy helps remove the tag and seal the surrounding tissue, reducing bleeding. It is generally done in a clinic under local anaesthesia and is suitable for small to medium tags.

Excision (Cutting Off)

Excision involves removing the skin tag with a sterile blade or surgical scissors. A local anaesthetic is usually applied to prevent discomfort. This approach is suitable for larger or stalked tags and offers immediate results.

Ligation (Cutting Off the Blood Supply)

In this technique, a small surgical thread or band is tied tightly around the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply. Without blood flow, the tag dries up and falls off over time. Ligation is often used for tags with a clear stalk.

Over-the-Counter Products

Some pharmacy products are designed to remove skin tags at home by drying them out. These usually contain ingredients that work over several days. They may be suitable for small tags but should not be used near sensitive areas such as the eyes or genitals.

What Not to Do?

Skin tags are generally harmless, but removing or handling them incorrectly can lead to unnecessary complications. Certain actions may cause bleeding, infection, or skin damage, especially when attempted without medical supervision. Here are some common mistakes that should be avoided:

Do not attempt to cut off skin tags at home

Using scissors, blades, or nail clippers to remove a skin tag may seem quick, but it can cause pain, bleeding, and infection. Without proper sterilisation and technique, this method carries significant risk and is not recommended.

Avoid tying threads or hair around skin tags without guidance

Although ligation is a recognised removal method, doing it at home with threads or hair can damage surrounding skin and lead to infection. It should only be done under medical supervision using sterile tools.

Do not use unverified home remedies

Applying vinegar, toothpaste, garlic, or other substances found in home remedy guides can irritate the skin. These approaches lack scientific support and may lead to burns or allergic reactions.

Avoid over-the-counter treatments near sensitive areas

Skin tags on the eyelids, groin, or underarms should not be treated with pharmacy products unless specifically advised. These areas are sensitive and more prone to irritation or injury from chemicals.

Do not ignore unusual changes in skin tags

If a skin tag becomes painful, changes colour, bleeds without injury, or grows rapidly, it should be examined by a doctor. These signs may point to a different skin condition that needs proper assessment.

Can Skin Tags be Prevented?

Complete prevention of skin tags is not always possible, but adopting certain measures can reduce their formation, especially in people more prone to them. These steps include:

• Minimise Friction: Regularly clean and dry areas where skin folds or rubs together, such as the neck, underarms, groin, and under the breasts. This reduces irritation and helps prevent skin from thickening and forming tags.
• Choose Loose Clothing: Wearing soft, loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics can lower skin irritation and rubbing. Tight clothing and rough materials increase friction, making skin tags more likely.
• Maintain Healthy Weight: Excess weight causes more skin folds, increasing friction. Keeping weight in a healthy range can reduce these folds and the chance of skin tags forming in areas prone to rubbing.
• Control Blood Sugar Levels:High blood sugar and insulin resistance are linked to a higher risk of skin tags. Managing diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication helps reduce this risk.
• Avoid Skin Injury: Prevent unnecessary skin trauma like frequent scratching, shaving cuts, or irritation from jewellery. Damaged skin is more likely to develop growths, including skin tags.
• Regular Skin Checks: Monitoring skin regularly can help detect new tags early. If certain areas are prone to developing tags, maintaining gentle care of these zones may reduce further growth.

Though these steps cannot guarantee that skin tags will not form, they can lower the risk and limit their number over time.

Consult Today

Skin tags might seem small, but they can sometimes cause discomfort or make people worry if they change or grow. Visiting a dermatologist can help figure out the best way to deal with them. At Max Hospital, skin specialists carefully examine skin tags and offer safe ways to remove them when needed. Getting professional advice makes sure skin tags are handled properly and with care. Reach out for a consultation with Max Specialists today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are skin tags contagious or can they spread to others?

Skin tags are harmless growths of skin and are not contagious. They cannot spread from person to person through contact or touch. Skin tags develop mainly due to friction, genetics, or hormonal factors, so they do not behave like infections or contagious skin conditions.

Can skin tags grow back after removal?

Skin tags can sometimes grow back in the same area, especially if the removal was incomplete or the underlying cause, such as skin friction, continues. However, when removal is done properly by a healthcare professional, the chances of regrowth are quite low. New skin tags can also appear elsewhere over time, but this is separate from regrowth.

Do skin tags ever turn into cancer?

Skin tags are benign and do not turn into cancer. They are non-cancerous skin growths made of normal skin tissue. However, if a skin tag suddenly changes in colour, size, shape, or starts to bleed frequently, it is important to get it examined by a doctor to rule out other possible skin problems.

Is it normal for skin tags to bleed or itch?

Normally, skin tags do not cause pain or symptoms like itching or bleeding. If they get irritated by rubbing against clothes, jewellery, or skin folds, they can become itchy or bleed. Frequent bleeding or pain should be checked by a healthcare professional to exclude infection or other issues.

How long does it take for skin tags to grow?

Skin tags tend to develop slowly over several weeks or months. Their growth is often gradual and influenced by factors like friction from skin rubbing together, weight gain, or hormonal changes. Some skin tags remain very small and hardly noticeable, while others may grow larger over time.

Can skin tags affect daily activities or cause pain?

In most cases, skin tags do not cause pain or interfere with daily activities. However, if located in areas prone to friction—such as the neck, underarms, or groin—they can become irritated, caught on clothing, or even injured, leading to discomfort or pain.

Is it safe to remove skin tags during pregnancy?

Removal of skin tags during pregnancy is usually avoided unless absolutely necessary. Pregnancy can make the skin more sensitive and prone to irritation or infection, so it is best to wait until after childbirth unless a skin tag is causing significant discomfort or bleeding.

Are there any risks involved with removing skin tags?

Removing skin tags under professional care is generally safe, but some risks remain. These include minor bleeding, infection, or scarring at the removal site. Following proper aftercare instructions helps reduce these risks and supports better healing. Attempting removal at home increases the risk of complications.