What are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are the most common type of growth along the skin’s surface. These growths can be both benign and malignant but are usually harmless. Skin tags are characterized as small, soft. Balloon-like growths that are similar to moles or other bumpy discolorations – they are sometimes suspended on a slender stalk as well.

For the most part, skin tags are painless and non-cancerous (benign), and can be found anywhere along the skin’s surface – but they are most commonly found in areas where the skin creases or folds, such as the:

• Armpits
• Groin
• Thighs
• Eyelids
• Neck

Causes
Skin tags mainly develop in areas where the skin creases or folds over on itself – like the neck, armpits, eyelids, and even under the breasts of females.
Considering this, many scientists and experts believe that the main cause of skin tags is the friction caused by skin rubbing together against itself or another surface, like our clothing. This is a major reason why younger children tend to develop skin tags on their eyelids, as they have a tendency to rub their eyes a lot. They are also quite prevalent in the underarm area of those who take part in sports and other activities in which there is extensive motion in the arms.
While the majority of the population will or has experienced skin tags during their lifetime, certain people and groups, with specific factors, are more susceptible. Some of the skin tag factors include:

• Age – While they can occur at any age, they are far more common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60.
• Weight – Skin tags are far more common in those who are overweight or considered obese, as these individuals will experience more tissue rubbing together.
• Hormone Levels & Pregnancy – Those with fluctuating hormone levels, such as a pregnant woman are also more likely to develop skin tags.

Skin Tag Removal
Some smaller skin tags may fall off on their own or can be rubbed off by hand. However, for larger skin tags minor, semi-invasive procedures are required.
Some methods for skin tag removal are:

• Cryotherapy: Freezing of the skin tag and the area surrounding the skin tag using liquid nitrogen. Rarely used.
• Excision Surgery: Removal using a scalpel or surgical knife, Dr. Lodha will generally recommend this method, under local anesthesia is needed.
• Ligation: a surgical method that ties off the blood supply to a skin tag, using a surgical thread.
• Laser resurfacing: Some skin tags can be removed using one of our specialized resurfacing lasers.

Depending on what type and the size of the skin tag, Dr. Lodha, and his team, will recommend a specific course of treatment. Treatment is not necessary, as skin tags are usually harmless, however removing them can improve your appearance as well as your skin’s overall health. For more information on skin tag removal or to schedule a consultation, contact the team at Pura Dermatology today.