Skin Tags: Why You Get Them and What Doctors Say About Removal

Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that commonly appear on areas of the body where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Millions of people develop skin tags at some point in their lives. While these growths are almost always harmless, they can be bothersome or cosmetically unwanted. Understanding skin tags causes, risk factors, and removal options can help you make informed decisions about your skin health.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags (acrochordons) are tiny flaps of tissue that hang off the skin by a thin stalk. They are:

• Flesh-colored or slightly darker
• Soft or slightly rubbery to the touch
• Usually painless unless irritated by friction or jewelry
• Common on the neck, underarms, groin, eyelids, and under the breasts

Though they can occur at any age, skin tags are most often seen in middle-aged and older adults. They tend to increase in number over time, but each individual tag typically grows to no more than a few millimeters to 5 millimeters in size.

Understanding Skin Tags Causes

Experts have identified several factors that contribute to the development of skin tags. While the exact mechanism isn't fully understood, the following are the most common skin tags causes:

• Friction and Skin Fold Areas
  Skin rubbing against skin or clothing creates micro-irritation. Over time, these tiny injuries can trigger the formation of skin tags. Common sites include:

  • Neck creases
  • Armpits
  • Groin folds
  • Under the breasts

• Obesity and Overweight
  Excess weight increases skin-to-skin contact and friction. Higher body mass index (BMI) is strongly associated with a greater number of skin tags.

• Genetics
  Family history plays a role. If your parents or siblings have skin tags, you're more likely to develop them.

• Hormonal Changes
  Fluctuations in hormones—such as during pregnancy—can lead to the growth of skin tags. Increased levels of growth factors and sex hormones are thought to stimulate skin-tag development.

• Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome
  There is a notable link between skin tags and markers of metabolic syndrome:

  • High blood sugar
  • High cholesterol
  • Elevated blood pressure
    People with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes often have more skin tags.

• Age
  Skin tags become more common as you get older. They rarely appear in young children.

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  Some studies have found fragments of HPV DNA in skin tags, suggesting a possible viral role. However, HPV is not the primary cause, and more research is needed.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

While anyone can develop skin tags, certain groups are at greater risk:

• Adults aged 40 and older
• Individuals with overweight or obesity
• Pregnant women
• People with a family history of skin tags
• Those diagnosed with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or metabolic syndrome

When to Be Concerned

Skin tags are benign—they do not turn into cancer. However, you should see a doctor if you notice:

• Rapid growth or color changes
• Bleeding, pain, or signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus)
• New growths in areas you haven't had them before
• Any suspicious skin lesion that doesn't look like a typical skin tag

These could signal other skin issues that require medical attention.

What Doctors Say About Removal

If a skin tag is irritating, cosmetically bothersome, or located where it catches on clothing or jewelry, many people choose to have it removed. Removal methods recommended by dermatologists and general practitioners include:

1. Cryotherapy (Freezing)

   • Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the tag.
   • The tag usually falls off within days.
   • Minimal scarring; slight blistering may occur.

2. Excision (Cutting)

   • A sterile scalpel or surgical scissors are used to cut off the tag at its base.
   • Local anesthesia may be applied to minimize discomfort.
   • Immediate removal with a clean edge; slight risk of bleeding.

3. Cauterization (Burning)

   • An electric current or special chemical (e.g., silver nitrate) is used to burn off the tag.
   • Controls bleeding and reduces infection risk.
   • Localized anesthesia may be used.

4. Ligation (Tying Off)

   • A small band or suture is tied around the base of the tag to cut off blood supply.
   • The tag falls off in about a week.
   • No cutting required; mild discomfort possible.

Why You Shouldn't DIY Major Removal

Over-the-counter remedies and home-grown methods (e.g., tying tags with fishing line, applying apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil) carry risks:

• Infection from unsterile instruments
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Scarring or skin discoloration
• Misdiagnosis of a more serious lesion

Always discuss any removal plan with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure safety and optimal cosmetic results.

Preventing New Skin Tags

While you can't always stop skin tags from forming, you can reduce friction and irritation:

• Keep skin folds clean and dry.
• Wear breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.
• Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
• Monitor blood sugar if you have prediabetes or diabetes.
• Apply gentle skincare to areas prone to friction.

Get Personalized Insights on Your Symptoms

If you're unsure whether a bump is a skin tag or something else, use Ubie's free AI-powered Skin Tag Symptom Checker to get personalized insights in just 3 minutes—no appointment needed.

Final Thoughts

Skin tags are extremely common and usually harmless. They result mainly from friction, genetics, hormonal changes and metabolic factors. Although they don't pose a health threat, removal can improve comfort and appearance. Doctors typically recommend simple in-office procedures that are quick, safe, and effective.

If you ever notice changes in size, color, or texture, or if a growth bleeds or becomes painful, don't hesitate to speak to a doctor. Only a medical professional can rule out more serious conditions and guide you toward the best treatment for your skin health.