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Growths (Skin Tags)

What is Growths (skin tags)?

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft, flesh‑colored growths that hang off the skin by a thin stalk called a peduncle. They are usually benign (non‑cancerous) and range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. Although they are harmless, many people choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons or because they become irritated by clothing or jewelry.

Skin tags most commonly appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, underarms, groin, eyelids, under the breasts, and on the abdomen. Their prevalence increases with age; up to 46% of adults over 40 have at least one skin tag (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Common Causes

While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, several conditions and risk factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing skin tags:

• Friction & skin‑to‑skin contact – Repeated rubbing (e.g., neck folds, bra lines).
• Obesity – Higher body‑mass index creates more skin folds and friction.
• Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, puberty, and hormone‑related disorders can stimulate growth.
• Insulin resistance & Type 2 diabetes – Elevated insulin may promote epidermal cell proliferation.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) – Certain low‑risk HPV strains have been detected in some skin tags.
• Genetic predisposition – Family history appears to play a role.
• Age – Incidence rises after the fourth decade of life.
• Metabolic syndrome – A cluster of conditions (high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL, central obesity) is linked to skin tags.
• Certain medications – Long‑term corticosteroid or estrogen therapy may increase risk.
• Pregnancy – Hormonal surge and weight gain together boost occurrence.

Associated Symptoms

Skin tags themselves rarely cause symptoms, but patients may notice:

• Small, soft, painless protrusion that can be pink, brown, or skin‑colored.
• Occasional itching or irritation, especially when the tag rubs against clothing.
• Bleeding if the tag is snagged or unintentionally cut.
• Cosmetic concern or self‑consciousness about appearance.

If a skin tag suddenly changes in size, color, or becomes painful, it may be a sign of an underlying skin condition that warrants evaluation.

When to See a Doctor

Most skin tags can be ignored, but you should schedule a medical appointment if you notice any of the following:

• Rapid growth or a sudden increase in number.
• Bleeding that does not stop after applying gentle pressure.
• Ulceration, crusting, or an open sore on the tag.
• Color changes (e.g., darkening) or a cauliflower‑like surface.
• Pain, tingling, or numbness associated with a tag.
• Any tag located on the genitals, anus, or other sensitive areas that causes discomfort.
• History of skin cancer, immunosuppression, or unexplained weight loss.

Because skin tags can mimic other lesions (including some skin cancers), it is prudent to have atypical growths examined by a clinician.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is generally straightforward:

1. Visual inspection – A dermatologist or primary‑care provider looks at the lesion’s size, color, and attachment.
2. Dermatoscopy – A handheld magnifying device can reveal characteristic patterns that distinguish skin tags from malignant lesions.
3. Biopsy (if needed) – When the appearance is uncertain, a shave or punch biopsy is performed to rule out basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.
4. Laboratory work‑up – If multiple tags are present, physicians may screen for diabetes or thyroid dysfunction as part of a broader metabolic assessment.

Most of the time, a simple clinical exam is sufficient, and no invasive testing is required.

Treatment Options

Medical/Procedural Treatments

• Cryotherapy – Freezing the tag with liquid nitrogen; effective for small tags.
• Electrocautery – Burning the stalk with an electric current.
• Excision – Cutting the tag off with a scalpel or scissors; often followed by a small suture or steri‑strip.
• Ligation – Tying off the base with a surgical thread to cut off blood supply; the tag falls off in a few days.
• Laser removal – CO₂ or erbium lasers vaporize the tag with minimal bleeding.

Home Remedies (Use with Caution)

Many over‑the‑counter (OTC) products claim to remove skin tags, but evidence is limited. If you opt for home care, consider these safer methods and note that professional removal is preferred when:

• The tag is larger than 5 mm.
• It is located in a high‑friction area.
• You have a bleeding disorder or are on blood‑thinning medication.

Common home approaches include:

• Tea tree oil – Applied 2–3 times daily; may dry out the tag over weeks.
• Apple cider vinegar – Dabbing a cotton ball for 5–10 minutes daily; occasional irritation reported.
• Over‑the‑counter skin‑tag removal kits – Typically use a combination of a topical irritant and a small cutting device. Follow manufacturer instructions precisely.

Do not cut or shave a skin tag yourself with household scissors or razors – this can lead to infection, bleeding, or scarring.

Post‑Removal Care

• Keep the area clean with mild soap and water.
• Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment for 24–48 hours.
• Cover with a sterile bandage if the site is in a location prone to friction.
• Watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).

Prevention Tips

Because many risk factors (age, genetics) cannot be changed, focus on modifiable lifestyle habits:

• Maintain a healthy weight – Reduces skin folds and friction.
• Wear loose‑fitting clothing – Especially in areas prone to rubbing (e.g., under‑bust, inner thighs).
• Practice good hygiene – Keep skin dry; moisture encourages friction and bacterial overgrowth.
• Control blood sugar – Regular monitoring and appropriate diet/exercise for diabetics or pre‑diabetics.
• Limit prolonged hormone‑altering therapy – Discuss alternatives with your provider if you’re on long‑term steroids or high‑dose estrogen.
• Regular skin checks – Especially if you have a family history of skin tags or metabolic syndrome.

Emergency Warning Signs

References

• Mayo Clinic. “Skin tags (acrochordons).” 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org
• American Academy of Dermatology. “Skin tags.” 2022. https://www.aad.org
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “Skin Changes in Diabetes.” 2021. https://www.niddk.nih.gov
• Cleveland Clinic. “Skin Tag Removal: Procedures & Recovery.” 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org
• World Health Organization. “Non‑communicable diseases: Diabetes.” 2022. https://www.who.int

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