Skin tag, also known as acrochordons, are small, soft, benign growths that appear on the skin. They are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and can range in size from a few millimeters to about the size of a grape. Though they are harmless, skin tags can be unsightly and bothersome, especially if they form in noticeable areas or places where they are frequently irritated, such as under the arms or around the neck. Fortunately, skin tags do not pose any serious medical risks, but many people seek to remove them for cosmetic reasons or due to discomfort.
What Are Skin Tags?
A skin tag is a small, benign growth of skin that is attached to the underlying skin by a thin stalk called a peduncle. These growths can be smooth or wrinkled, and they are usually painless unless irritated by friction from clothing or jewelry. Skin tags are not cancerous, and while they can be confused with other skin conditions such as moles or warts, they are unique in their structure and appearance.
They are commonly found in areas of the body where skin rubs against skin, such as:
- Neck
- Underarms
- Eyelids
- Groin
- Thighs
- Under the breasts
What Causes Skin Tags?
While skin tags can develop in anyone, certain factors increase the likelihood of their occurrence. Understanding the causes can help in managing and preventing new skin tags from forming.
1. Friction
The most common cause of skin tags is friction. When the skin rubs against itself or clothing, the friction can cause skin tags to develop. This is why they frequently appear in areas like the underarms, neck, or groin.
2. Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in the formation of skin tags. If skin tags run in your family, there is a higher likelihood that you will develop them too. Some people are simply more prone to skin tags due to their genetic makeup.
3. Obesity
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing skin tags. This is likely due to the increased friction caused by skin folds, which can lead to irritation and the formation of these benign growths.
4. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, can lead to the development of skin tags. Pregnant women are more prone to these growths, especially in areas where the skin experiences increased friction or stretching.
5. Insulin Resistance and Diabetes
Research has shown that people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop skin tags. This is thought to be due to increased levels of insulin in the body, which can contribute to the formation of growths on the skin.
6. Age
As people age, the likelihood of developing skin tags increases. Skin tags are more common in adults over the age of 50. The skin loses elasticity as we age, making it more prone to irritation and, therefore, more susceptible to forming tags.
7. HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Some studies suggest a link between certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and the formation of skin tags. However, more research is needed to understand this connection fully.
8. Skin Conditions
Certain skin conditions, such as acanthosis nigricans (a condition that causes darkened patches of skin), are associated with an increased risk of skin tags. Additionally, people with metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, may be more likely to develop skin tags.
How to Remove Skin Tags at Home
While it’s always best to consult with a dermatologist before attempting any form of skin tag removal, there are several methods that people have successfully used at home. These at-home remedies vary in effectiveness, and it’s important to be cautious to avoid irritation or infection. Below are some of the most common ways to remove skin tags at home.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for a variety of skin issues, including skin tags. It is believed to work by breaking down the tissue surrounding the skin tag, causing it to eventually fall off.
How to Use:
- Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it directly to the skin tag.
- Secure the cotton ball with a bandage and leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Repeat the process daily for one to two weeks until the skin tag dries out and falls off.
Precaution: Apple cider vinegar is acidic and can irritate the surrounding skin. Be careful when applying it, and avoid using it on sensitive areas like the eyelids.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties and is commonly used to treat various skin conditions. It is a safe and natural remedy for removing skin tags, particularly in sensitive areas.
How to Use:
- Apply a few drops of tea tree oil directly onto the skin tag using a cotton swab.
- Cover the area with a bandage and leave it on overnight.
- Repeat this process nightly for about one to two weeks.
Precaution: Test a small patch of skin first to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction to tea tree oil. Some people may experience irritation or redness when using it.
3. Dental Floss or Thread
One of the most effective methods for removing a skin tag is to cut off its blood supply. This can be done by tying a piece of dental floss or thread tightly around the base of the skin tag. Without a blood supply, the tag will eventually wither and fall off.
How to Use:
- Tie a piece of dental floss or thread tightly around the base of the skin tag.
- Leave it on for several days until the skin tag shrinks and falls off.
- Be sure to check the skin tag daily to ensure that there are no signs of infection.
Precaution: This method can cause discomfort, and there is a risk of infection if not done correctly. Avoid attempting this on large skin tags or in sensitive areas.
4. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E is known for its skin-healing properties and is commonly used in anti-aging treatments. Applying vitamin E oil to a skin tag may help reduce its size and make it easier to remove.
How to Use:
- Apply a generous amount of vitamin E oil to the skin tag.
- Cover it with a bandage to keep the oil in place.
- Repeat the process daily for a few weeks.
5. Garlic
Garlic is another natural remedy that can help shrink and remove skin tags. It contains enzymes that break down the tissue in the skin tag, causing it to fall off over time.
How to Use:
- Crush a garlic clove and apply the paste directly to the skin tag.
- Cover it with a bandage and leave it on overnight.
- Wash the area in the morning and repeat the process until the skin tag disappears.
Precaution: Garlic can irritate the skin, so avoid using it on sensitive areas or if you have any open wounds near the skin tag.
6. Over-the-Counter Skin Tag Removal Products
There are several over-the-counter (OTC) products available that are specifically designed to remove skin tags. These products typically contain salicylic acid or cryotherapy agents that freeze the skin tag.
How to Use:
- Follow the instructions provided with the OTC product carefully.
- Apply the treatment directly to the skin tag and wait for it to dry.
- Over time, the skin tag will shrink and eventually fall off.
Precaution: OTC products can be effective, but they can also cause irritation or discomfort if not used correctly. Be cautious when applying them to sensitive areas like the face or neck.
When to See a Doctor
While skin tags are usually harmless, there are times when it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for removal, especially if:
- The skin tag is large or located in a sensitive area (such as the eyelid).
- The skin tag becomes painful, irritated, or infected.
- You are unsure if the growth is a skin tag or something more serious.
- You have multiple skin tags and would prefer professional removal for safety reasons.
Doctors can remove skin tags using several in-office procedures, including:
- Cauterization: Burning the skin tag off using electrical currents.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen.
- Surgical Removal: Cutting off the skin tag with sterilized scissors or a scalpel.
These methods are quick, relatively painless, and provide immediate results with minimal risk of infection or scarring.
Preventing Skin Tags
While it’s impossible to completely prevent skin tags, especially if you are genetically predisposed to them, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing them.
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Since skin tags are often associated with friction, maintaining a healthy weight can help minimize skin folds and reduce friction in areas where tags tend to form.
2. Keep Skin Dry: Moisture can contribute to friction, so keeping your skin dry—especially in areas where skin rubs against skin—can help prevent skin tags. Applying powder to areas prone to sweating may also reduce friction.
3. Avoid Irritation: Be mindful of jewelry, clothing, or accessories that may irritate the skin. Avoid wearing tight clothing or jewelry that rubs against your skin for prolonged periods.
4. Control Blood Sugar Levels: Since skin tags are more common in people with insulin resistance and diabetes, managing your blood sugar levels through a healthy diet and regular exercise may help reduce the likelihood of skin tags forming.
Conclusion
Skin tags are common and harmless, but they can be unsightly and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are several safe and effective ways to remove them at home using natural remedies or over-the-counter treatments. However, if you are ever in doubt about the nature of a skin tag or if it becomes irritated, painful, or infected, it’s always best to seek professional medical advice.
