What Is Skin Tags?
A skin tag (acrochordon) is a small, soft, benign growth of skin that hangs off the surface on a thin stalk. They're typically flesh-colored or slightly darker, painless, and range from a couple millimeters to about a centimeter across.
Skin tags form in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing — the neck, armpits, under the breasts, eyelids, and groin folds are the most common spots. They're extremely common with age and weight gain, and are entirely harmless; they do not turn into skin cancer.
Causes
- Friction from skin rubbing against skin or clothing
- Increasing age — skin tags become more common over time
- Weight gain, which increases skin folds and friction
- Pregnancy, likely related to hormonal changes and weight changes
Symptoms
- A small, soft growth hanging off the skin on a thin stalk
- Flesh-colored or slightly darker than surrounding skin
- Usually painless, though can become irritated if caught on clothing or jewelry
- Commonly found on the neck, armpits, eyelids, and groin folds
Treatment Options at Dermatology of Seattle
- Quick, straightforward in-office removal for cosmetic or comfort reasons
- Multiple removal techniques depending on size and location
- No treatment needed if a skin tag isn't bothering you — removal is elective, not medically necessary
When to See a Dermatologist
Skin tags don't require removal for medical reasons, so it's entirely reasonable to see a dermatologist whenever one becomes bothersome, whether from friction, irritation, or cosmetic preference. Any growth that looks different from a typical skin tag, or that changes in appearance, should be evaluated to confirm the diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a skin tag at home?
It's not recommended. At-home removal methods can cause bleeding, infection, or scarring. In-office removal is quick, safe, and virtually painless.
Do skin tags grow back after removal?
The specific skin tag removed won't grow back, but new ones can form over time in the same friction-prone areas, particularly the neck and underarms.
Are skin tags a sign of a health problem?
For most people, skin tags are simply a common, harmless part of aging and friction — not a sign of an underlying health issue. In some cases, a higher number of skin tags has been loosely associated with insulin resistance, which is worth mentioning to your doctor if you have other risk factors.