There is an old saying: “Beauty is only skin deep,” but when it comes to skin imperfections like skin tags, even the smallest blemish can feel like a big deal.

These tiny, harmless growths might not pose a threat to your health, but they can still be frustrating and uncomfortable, especially when they show up in noticeable or sensitive areas.

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, often form where the skin rubs against itself, like the neck, armpits, or under the breasts. While painless and benign, they can sometimes cause irritation or become a cosmetic concern.

In this article, we will gently guide you to the reasons behind their appearance or explore safe removal options.

 

What is a skin tag?

These are small, soft skin growths that dangle from the body by a thin stalk called a peduncle.

Skin tags typically range in size from as small as 1 mm to as large as 1 cm. They are made up of collagen (a type of protein) and blood vessels, all wrapped in a layer of skin.

These small growths tend to develop in areas where the skin naturally rubs against itself, like the armpits, groyne, around the anus, on the thighs, eyelids, neck, or under the breasts.

Skin tags can appear at any age and on any part of the body but are more common among middle-aged adults. People who experience skin tags find them in areas where their skin tends to rub or crease, but they can form on almost any surface of the skin.

Skin tags are quite common, especially as we get older. This generally affects nearly half of all adults.

Common areas for skin tag formation

If you observe closely, you will find that skin tags are common in areas where skin folds or rubs together. Some of the most frequent places for skin tag formation include

• Neck: Skin tags in this area may be caused by friction from clothing or jewellery.
• Armpits: These spots are especially prone to skin tags due to constant movement and skin-to-skin contact.
• Groin: The groin area experiences significant friction, especially in individuals who are overweight or wear tight clothing.
• Eyelids: The delicate skin around the eyes may also be a common site for skin tag formation, particularly as people age.
• Under the breasts: Skin tags can frequently develop under the breasts. This is especially found in women with larger breasts, where friction is more prevalent.

Skin tag causes

Let us take a closer look at some of the causes of skin tags.

Friction and skin folds

This is one of the most common reasons for skin tag formation. Skin tags are common in areas where the skin rubs itself or clothing. This constant friction can irritate the skin, triggering the formation of skin tags. For example, skin tags frequently appear in the armpits, neck, groin, and under the breasts, where movement and skin-to-skin contact are frequent.

Individuals with excess skin folds due to weight gain or obesity are more prone to developing skin tags because these areas experience higher friction.

Wearing tight clothing can also exacerbate the situation by further increasing the rubbing of skin.

Genetics

If you have ever wondered why skin tags seem to run in families, you’re not alone.

Studies have indicated that genetics play a vital role in the likelihood of developing skin tags.

If your parents or siblings have struggled with these pesky growths, you might find yourself facing the same issue.

The hereditary aspect suggests that our genetic makeup can predispose us to skin tags, although the exact mechanisms are not entirely clear.

Family history can make a difference, indicating that some people might be more genetically inclined to develop these harmless skin growths.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal fluctuations are another contributing factor to skin tag formation.

• Pregnancy: Pregnant women often experience the development of skin tags due to hormonal surges and the weight gain that typically accompanies pregnancy, which increases skin folds and friction.
• Puberty: Just like pregnancy, puberty brings dramatic hormonal changes that can influence skin health, making it easier for skin tags to form.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Specific conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders that lead to hormonal imbalances can also increase the chances of skin tag formation. Even changes in insulin resistance or weight gain caused by hormonal shifts can exacerbate the problem.

Age-related factors

Skin tags often become more prevalent during the later years of life. Some of the changes that happen to our skin as we age include

• Loss of elasticity: As the skin loses elasticity, it becomes more prone to irritation and friction, leading to an increased risk of skin tags.
• Hormonal changes: Aging can also bring hormonal shifts, especially during menopause, when changes in estrogen and progesterone levels may influence skin health.
• Collagen production decreases with age, and this natural decline can make the skin more susceptible to forming tags in areas where there’s friction.

Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions are strongly associated with a higher risk of developing skin tags. These conditions include:

• Obesity: People with excess weight often have more skin folds, which can increase friction and lead to skin tag formation.
• Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, have been shown to have a higher prevalence of skin tags. This may be linked to insulin resistance, which in turn affects skin health.
• Metabolic syndrome: This condition involves a combination of health problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insulin resistance, etc. and has been linked with an increased risk of skin tags.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): Some studies suggest a possible link between skin tags and HPV infections, as certain strains of the virus might contribute to their development.

Are skin tags harmful?

The good thing about skin tags is that they are generally harmless. Let us take a closer look at some of the various aspects related to skin tags and their potential harm:

Pain

Skin tags are usually painless and don’t cause any physical discomfort. However, if a skin tag is located in an area prone to friction, it can become irritated, leading to mild pain or tenderness.

In addition, if a skin tag gets caught on clothing or jewellery, it can become sore and cause pain.

Infection

Though rare, it is possible to get skin infection issues with skin tags. If a skin tag is accidentally scratched, it can open up and become infected.

Some of the signs of an infection include swelling, redness, and a warm sensation around the tag. Infections should be treated at the right time to prevent further complications.

Interference with daily activities

Skin tags situated in high-friction areas can interfere with daily activities.

For instance, a tag located under a bra strap or in the armpit area can become a constant annoyance, rubbing against clothing and causing discomfort.

This irritation can make routine tasks like dressing or exercising challenging. In some cases, the presence of a skin tag can lead to self-consciousness or cosmetic concerns, impacting your confidence and comfort.

Bleeding or discharge

Occasionally, a skin tag may bleed or discharge if it’s irritated or accidentally torn. This is especially common if the tag is in a location where it is subjected to frequent friction. While the bleeding is usually minor, it can be uncomfortable and may increase the risk of infection if not managed properly.

Changes in texture or appearance

Any noticeable changes in the texture, colour, or appearance of a skin tag should be monitored closely. While skin tags are benign, sudden changes could indicate an underlying issue.

For instance, if a skin tag starts to grow rapidly, change colour (particularly to darker shades), or develop a different texture, it could be a sign of something more serious. A healthcare professional should evaluate it.

Ensuring that these growths are examined can provide peace of mind and confirm that they remain harmless.

Skin tag removal options

If a skin tag is causing discomfort or cosmetic concerns, removal is an option. There are both medical and home-based methods for skin tag removal, though professional treatment is often the safest and most effective choice.

Medical options for skin tag treatment

Visiting a healthcare professional for skin tag removal ensures the procedure is safe and sterile and minimises the risk of complications. Here are some common medical treatments for skin tags:

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

In this method, a healthcare professional uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag. The freezing process destroys the tissue within the tag, which may cause it to wither and fall off over time. Cryotherapy is quick, effective, and generally leaves minimal scarring. It is only used for small to medium-sized skin tags and can be performed in a doctor’s office.

Cauterisation (Burning)

This method involves using heat to burn off the skin tag. A special device is used to apply heat to the tag, effectively removing it and sealing the skin at the same time, which minimises the chance of bleeding. This technique is often used for larger or more difficult-to-remove tags. Like cryotherapy, it’s a quick procedure but may require some time for healing, and there may be a slight risk of scarring.

Excision (Cutting)

Excision may be the best option for larger or more complex skin tags. In this procedure, a doctor uses a scalpel or scissors to carefully cut away the skin tag. The procedure is typically done under local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort, and the tag is removed in one session.

Excision is particularly useful for large skin tags or those located in sensitive areas. While it’s a highly effective method, there’s a slightly higher risk of scarring compared to other treatments.

Laser skin tag removal

This technique uses focused laser energy to break down the skin tag tissue. The laser targets the tag, destroying its cells without damaging the surrounding skin. This method is precise and often results in less scarring than other removal techniques.

Laser removal is ideal for small or medium-sized skin tags, and it’s a popular option due to its effectiveness and the short recovery time.

Skin tag removal at home

There are various over-the-counter products, such as creams and patches, designed to remove skin tags at home. These products typically work by cutting off the blood flow to the tag.

This causes it to dry out and fall off. However, it’s important to note that removing skin tags at home comes with some risks, including infection, scarring, and incomplete removal.

For these reasons, it’s generally advisable to have skin tags removed by a healthcare professional, especially if they’re large or located in sensitive areas.

How fast can you remove a skin tag?

The speed of skin tag removal depends on the size of the tag and the technique used for removal.

• Cryotherapy typically results in the tag falling off within one to two weeks after a brief procedure.
• Cauterisation removes the tag immediately, with healing taking a few days to a week.
• Excision removes the tag instantly, but depending on its size and location, recovery may take a bit longer.
• Laser removal offers a quick solution with minimal recovery time.

Can skin tags be prevented?

While it’s not always possible to completely prevent skin tags, certain lifestyle habits can reduce your risk. Here are a few tips to help prevent their formation:

• Reduce friction and irritation: Wearing loose-fitting clothing, especially in areas prone to friction (like the neck, underarms, and thighs), can minimise skin irritation and reduce the likelihood of skin tag formation.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping a healthy weight can prevent excess skin folds, which are common areas where skin tags develop. Weight management also helps reduce overall friction between skin folds.
• Regular skin care routines: Keeping your skin clean and moisturised can help reduce irritation and maintain overall skin health. Proper hygiene, especially in areas prone to friction, may lower your chances of developing skin tags.

Skin tag removal price in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the cost of removing skin tags varies depending on the method used and the clinic.

Generally, procedures like cryotherapy, cauterisation, and laser removal are charged differently depending on the size of the skin tag and the complexity of the treatment.

Excision, being a more invasive method, tends to be on the higher end of the price range. It’s best to consult with local clinics to get a specific estimate for the type of removal you’re considering.

Keep in mind that these prices can vary depending on the clinic’s location, the procedure, etc. It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for a detailed price estimate before proceeding with any treatment.

When to consult a doctor for skin tags?

While most skin tags are harmless, there are times when you should see a doctor, particularly if you notice any changes.

Here are a few signs that it’s time to consult a healthcare professional:

• Changes in size, colour, or appearance: If a skin tag starts growing rapidly, changes colour (especially if it becomes darker), or develops an irregular shape, it’s important to get it checked to rule out any potential issues.
• Pain and bleeding: If a skin tag becomes painful or bleeds frequently, it may have been irritated or injured. This can increase the risk of infection and should be examined by a doctor.
• Repeated occurrence in the same area: If skin tags keep appearing in the same spot, it could be a sign of an underlying issue, such as friction or a skin condition that needs attention.

Consult us at Clique Clinic for more information on skin tag removal.

Conclusion

Although skin tags are harmless in most cases, they can be a source of discomfort when they occur in noticeable or sensitive areas.

Fortunately, several effective removal options are available, ranging from quick medical treatments like cryotherapy and laser removal to home-based methods.

Whether you’re looking to remove a skin tag for comfort or aesthetic reasons, it’s important to consult a certified healthcare professional to use the safest and most effective method.

If you ever notice changes in your skin tags or experience any discomfort, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure your skin remains healthy and irritation-free.