What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, benign growths that hang off the skin by a thin stalk called a peduncle. They typically range in size from a tiny pinpoint to about the size of a pencil eraser, though some can grow larger. Skin tags are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker than the surrounding skin and have a soft, somewhat wrinkled texture.

These growths develop when extra cells form in the upper layers of the skin. They’re composed of collagen fibers, nerve cells, fat cells, and a covering of epidermis. While scientists don’t fully understand why skin tags form, they appear to develop in areas where skin frequently rubs against skin or clothing.

Skin tags are extremely common—studies suggest that nearly half of all adults will develop at least one skin tag during their lifetime. They become more prevalent with age and are equally common in men and women. While skin tags can appear at any age, they most frequently develop in middle-aged and older adults.

The good news is that skin tags are completely benign. They’re not cancerous, don’t become cancerous, and pose no threat to your health. However, many people choose to have them removed because they’re cosmetically bothersome, get irritated, or simply don’t like how they look or feel.

Where Do Skin Tags Typically Appear?

Skin tags tend to develop in areas where skin experiences friction—either from rubbing against other skin or from contact with clothing and accessories. The most common locations include:

Neck

The neck is one of the most frequent sites for skin tags, likely due to friction from necklaces, shirt collars, and natural skin folds. Skin tags on the neck can be particularly bothersome because they’re highly visible and may catch on jewelry or clothing.

Underarms (Axillae)

The underarm area is prone to skin tags due to constant friction from arm movement and contact with clothing. Skin tags here may become irritated by shaving or deodorant application.

Eyelids

Small skin tags commonly develop on the eyelids and around the eyes. While harmless, they can be cosmetically concerning and, if large enough, may interfere with vision or cause discomfort when blinking.

Under the Breasts

Women frequently develop skin tags in the fold beneath the breasts, where skin-on-skin contact and bra friction create an ideal environment for these growths.

Groin and Upper Thighs

The groin area and inner thighs are common sites for skin tags due to friction from walking and clothing. Skin tags in these areas may become irritated or uncomfortable.

Other Areas

Skin tags can also appear on the back, chest, abdomen, and virtually anywhere else on the body, though they’re less common in areas without significant friction.

What Causes Skin Tags?

While the exact cause of skin tags isn’t completely understood, several factors appear to contribute to their development.

Friction

Friction is considered the primary factor in skin tag formation. Areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing experience repeated irritation that may trigger the overgrowth of cells that forms a skin tag. This explains why skin tags commonly appear in body folds and creases.

Age

Skin tags become increasingly common with age. The skin changes that occur as we get older, combined with years of cumulative friction, may explain this increased prevalence.

Genetics

Skin tags appear to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. If your parents or siblings have skin tags, you’re more likely to develop them yourself.

Weight

People who are overweight or obese have a higher incidence of skin tags, likely because they have more skin folds where friction occurs. Weight gain can also stretch the skin, potentially contributing to skin tag formation.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations appear to play a role in skin tag development. Skin tags are more common during pregnancy, possibly due to hormonal changes and weight gain. People with hormonal conditions may also be more prone to developing skin tags.

Insulin Resistance and Diabetes

Research has shown a connection between skin tags and insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Some studies suggest that having multiple skin tags may be an early indicator of metabolic syndrome or diabetes risk. If you’re developing numerous skin tags, especially if you have other risk factors, discussing screening for diabetes with your doctor may be worthwhile.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Some studies have found HPV DNA in skin tags, suggesting the virus may play a role in some cases. However, this connection isn’t fully established, and most skin tags are not associated with HPV.

Are Skin Tags Dangerous?

Skin tags are completely harmless. They’re benign growths that don’t become cancerous and don’t pose any risk to your health. You can have skin tags your entire life without any medical consequences.

However, there are a few situations where skin tags warrant attention:

If a skin tag changes color, becomes painful, bleeds, or grows rapidly, it should be evaluated to ensure it’s actually a skin tag and not another type of growth. Occasionally, other skin conditions—including skin cancers—can be mistaken for skin tags.

If a skin tag becomes twisted on its stalk, it may lose blood supply and become painful, red, or black. While this isn’t dangerous, it can be uncomfortable and is a good reason to have the tag removed.

If you’re developing many skin tags suddenly, particularly if you have risk factors for diabetes, mentioning this to your healthcare provider is a good idea, as it may warrant screening for metabolic conditions.

Should I Remove My Skin Tags?

Since skin tags are harmless, removal is always optional. However, many people choose to have their skin tags removed for various reasons.

Cosmetic Concerns

Skin tags in visible locations like the face, neck, and eyelids can be embarrassing and affect self-confidence. Many people feel better about their appearance after having visible skin tags removed.

Irritation and Discomfort

Skin tags that catch on clothing, jewelry, or seatbelts can become irritated, inflamed, or even bleed. Tags in areas that experience a lot of friction may be chronically uncomfortable. Removal eliminates this ongoing irritation.

Interference with Daily Activities

Large skin tags or those in certain locations may interfere with shaving, applying makeup, or other daily activities. Removing them simplifies your routine.

Personal Preference

Some people simply don’t like having skin tags, regardless of their location or any specific symptoms. That’s a perfectly valid reason to have them removed.

Skin Tag Removal Methods

Dr. Daoud offers several effective methods for removing skin tags. The best approach depends on the size, location, and number of skin tags being treated.

Snip Excision

For most skin tags, snip excision is the quickest and most straightforward removal method. After numbing the area with local anesthesia, Dr. Daoud uses sterile surgical scissors to snip the skin tag off at its base. The procedure takes just seconds per tag, and bleeding is minimal. No stitches are needed, and the small wound heals quickly on its own.

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag, destroying the tissue. The frozen tag typically falls off within a few days to two weeks. Cryotherapy works well for smaller skin tags and doesn’t require anesthesia, though you’ll feel a brief cold sensation during treatment.

Electrosurgery (Cauterization)

Electrosurgery uses electrical current to burn off the skin tag while simultaneously cauterizing the wound to prevent bleeding. This method is effective for skin tags of various sizes and provides immediate results.

Ligation

Ligation involves tying off the base of the skin tag with surgical thread, cutting off its blood supply. The tag gradually shrinks and falls off over the following days. This method is sometimes used for larger skin tags.

Dr. Daoud will recommend the most appropriate removal method based on your specific situation and discuss what to expect before proceeding.

What to Expect During Skin Tag Removal

Skin tag removal is a quick, straightforward procedure performed right in our Parma office. Most patients find the process easier than they expected.

When you arrive for your appointment, the treatment area will be cleaned, and Dr. Daoud will examine your skin tags to confirm they’re appropriate for removal. If local anesthesia is needed (typically for snip excision), a small amount will be injected to numb the area. You may feel a brief pinch from the injection, but the area will be completely numb within moments.

The actual removal takes just seconds per skin tag. You shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure—at most, you may feel some pressure or tugging. Multiple skin tags can usually be removed in a single visit.

After removal, you’ll receive simple aftercare instructions. Most skin tag removal sites heal within a few days to a week, depending on the size and location of the tags and the removal method used.

Aftercare and Healing

Proper aftercare ensures optimal healing and minimizes the risk of complications. Following your skin tag removal, keep the treated area clean and dry for the first 24 hours. After that, gently clean the area daily with mild soap and water. Apply any ointment or medication as directed by Dr. Daoud. Avoid picking at scabs or crusts that form—let them fall off naturally. Protect healing skin from sun exposure to prevent discoloration. Watch for signs of infection, including increasing redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge.

Most skin tag removal sites heal within one to two weeks. The area may be slightly pink or discolored initially, but this typically fades over time. Scarring is usually minimal to nonexistent, especially for smaller skin tags.

Why Professional Removal Is Best

While you may be tempted to remove skin tags yourself at home, professional removal is strongly recommended for several reasons.

Accurate Diagnosis

What looks like a skin tag isn’t always a skin tag. Other growths—including some that require medical attention—can resemble skin tags. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and ensure you’re not removing something that should be biopsied or treated differently.

Safety

DIY removal methods like cutting, tying off, or using over-the-counter “tag removal” products can lead to infection, excessive bleeding, scarring, or incomplete removal. Professional removal is performed under sterile conditions with proper technique.

Better Results

Professional removal typically produces better cosmetic outcomes than home attempts. Dr. Daoud knows how to remove skin tags with minimal scarring and optimal healing.

Comfort

With proper anesthesia, professional skin tag removal is virtually painless. Home removal attempts are often more uncomfortable and can damage surrounding skin.

Can Skin Tags Be Prevented?

Since the exact cause of skin tags isn’t fully understood, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent them. However, some strategies may help reduce your risk.

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces skin folds and friction that contribute to skin tag formation. Wearing loose, breathable clothing in areas prone to skin tags may help reduce friction. Keeping skin folds clean and dry can minimize irritation. Managing blood sugar levels may be beneficial, given the connection between skin tags and insulin resistance.

Even with preventive efforts, some people are simply prone to developing skin tags due to genetics or other factors beyond their control. If you continue to develop skin tags, they can be removed as they appear.

Schedule Your Skin Tag Removal Today

Don’t let skin tags affect your confidence or comfort. Dr. Shaza Daoud and the team at Glo Dermatology offer quick, effective skin tag removal that can have you looking and feeling better in no time.

Contact our Parma office today at (216) 351-7700 to schedule your appointment. We welcome patients from throughout Greater Cleveland and Northeast Ohio, including Parma Heights, Brooklyn, Seven Hills, Independence, Middleburg Heights, and surrounding communities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Tags

Do skin tags grow back after removal?

Once a skin tag is properly removed, it won’t grow back in that exact spot. However, if you’re prone to developing skin tags, new ones may appear in other locations over time. These can be removed as they develop.

Does skin tag removal hurt?

With proper anesthesia, skin tag removal is virtually painless. You may feel a brief pinch when local anesthetic is injected, but the removal itself shouldn’t hurt. Some methods like cryotherapy don’t require anesthesia and cause only brief, mild discomfort.

How many skin tags can be removed at once?

Multiple skin tags can typically be removed in a single office visit. The number depends on their size and location, as well as the time available for your appointment. Dr. Daoud can advise you on what’s reasonable to address in one session.

Will I have scars after skin tag removal?

Scarring after skin tag removal is usually minimal to nonexistent, especially for smaller tags. Larger skin tags may leave small, faint scars that fade over time. Following aftercare instructions helps minimize scarring.

Why do I keep getting skin tags?

Some people are simply more prone to skin tags due to genetics, body type, hormonal factors, or other reasons. If you keep developing skin tags, they can be removed as they appear. Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing friction in prone areas may help reduce new tag formation.

Are skin tags and warts the same thing?

No. Skin tags and warts are different types of growths. Skin tags are soft, hanging growths composed of normal skin tissue, while warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and have a rough, cauliflower-like texture. The treatment approaches differ as well.