Skin Tags: What They Are & Safe Ways to Remove Them
Skin tags are one of the most common—and misunderstood—skin growths. Nearly half of adults will develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime, yet many people feel anxious or embarrassed when they notice them. Are they dangerous? Why do they appear? And most importantly, what is the safest way to remove them?
This guide explains what skin tags are, why they form, who is most likely to get them, and which removal options are safe and effective. It also highlights what not to do and when to seek medical advice.
If you’ve ever looked at a small, soft growth on your skin and wondered what to do next, this article will give you clear, responsible answers.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags—medically known as acrochordons—are benign (non-cancerous) growths of skin tissue. They typically appear as small, soft protrusions attached to the skin by a thin stalk.
Key Characteristics:
Flesh-colored, brown, or slightly darker
Soft and flexible
Usually painless
Range from a few millimeters to over an inch
Hang off the skin rather than growing flat
Skin tags are harmless, do not spread disease, and are not contagious.
Common Areas Where Skin Tags Appear
Skin tags often develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing:
Neck
Armpits
Groin
Inner thighs
Under the breasts
Eyelids
Upper chest
Back
Friction appears to play a significant role in their formation.
Why Do Skin Tags Form?
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, research suggests several contributing factors.
1. Friction and Skin Rubbing
Repeated rubbing from:
Tight clothing
Jewelry
Skin folds
can stimulate excess skin growth.
2. Hormonal Changes
Skin tags are more common:
During pregnancy
In people with hormonal imbalances
With conditions like insulin resistance
3. Genetics
If your parents had skin tags, you’re more likely to develop them as well.
4. Age
Skin tags are more common in:
Adults over 30
Middle-aged and older individuals
5. Metabolic Factors
Studies show a higher prevalence among people with:
Obesity
Type 2 diabetes
Insulin resistance
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Skin tags may be an external marker of internal metabolic changes.
Are Skin Tags Dangerous?
In almost all cases, no.
Skin tags are:
Benign
Non-cancerous
Not precursors to skin cancer
However, any skin growth that changes rapidly, bleeds without injury, becomes painful, or changes color should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Skin Tags vs. Other Skin Growths
Not everything that looks like a skin tag is one.
Skin Tags vs. Warts
| Skin Tags | Warts |
|---|---|
| Soft | Rough |
| Painless | Often tender |
| Flesh-colored | May be darker |
| Not contagious | Caused by HPV |
Skin Tags vs. Moles
| Skin Tags | Moles |
|---|---|
| Hang from skin | Flat or raised |
| Uniform color | May have uneven pigment |
| Soft | Firmer |
If you’re unsure what a growth is, don’t attempt removal until it’s identified correctly.
When Should You NOT Try to Remove a Skin Tag Yourself?
You should avoid self-removal and see a medical professional if the skin tag:
Is dark, black, or irregular
Bleeds easily
Is painful
Appears suddenly in large numbers
Is located on the eyelid or genitals
Has an uncertain diagnosis
These signs may indicate something other than a simple skin tag.
Safe Ways to Remove Skin Tags
Not all removal methods are equal. Safety, hygiene, and proper diagnosis matter.
1. Professional Medical Removal (Safest Option)
This is the gold standard, especially for large or sensitive-area skin tags.
Common Medical Methods:
Cryotherapy (freezing)
Electrocautery (controlled heat)
Surgical snip with sterile instruments
These procedures are:
Quick
Performed in a clinical setting
Usually painless or minimally uncomfortable
Low risk when done by professionals
2. Over-the-Counter Skin Tag Products (With Caution)
Some OTC products are designed specifically for skin tags.
Examples Include:
Medical-grade freezing pens
Topical solutions designed for acrochordons
⚠️ Important Safety Notes:
Only use products labeled specifically for skin tags
Never apply to moles or unknown growths
Follow instructions exactly
Stop use if irritation occurs
OTC products may work best on small, narrow-based skin tags.
3. Watchful Waiting (Often Overlooked but Valid)
If a skin tag:
Isn’t painful
Isn’t irritated
Doesn’t affect daily life
…it can simply be left alone. Many skin tags remain unchanged for years.
Removal is often cosmetic, not medical.
What NOT to Do: Unsafe Removal Methods
Despite popular internet advice, some methods are unsafe and discouraged.
❌ Cutting with scissors or blades
❌ Using dental floss or string to tie off
❌ Applying corrosive chemicals or acids
❌ Burning with heat or matches
❌ Using household remedies without evidence
These methods can cause:
Infection
Bleeding
Scarring
Delayed diagnosis of serious conditions
Medical professionals strongly advise against home cutting or burning.
Pain, Bleeding, and Infection Risks
Improper removal can lead to:
Excessive bleeding
Bacterial infection
Nerve damage
Poor wound healing
Permanent scarring
This is especially true in areas with:
Thin skin
High blood supply
Frequent movement
Aftercare Following Skin Tag Removal
Whether removed professionally or with approved OTC methods, aftercare matters.
Proper Aftercare Includes:
Keeping the area clean and dry
Avoiding friction
Watching for redness or swelling
Not picking at scabs
Following all medical instructions
Contact a professional if signs of infection appear, such as:
Increasing pain
Red streaks
Pus
Fever
Can Skin Tags Grow Back?
A removed skin tag typically does not grow back, but new ones can form elsewhere.
Reducing risk factors may help minimize recurrence.
How to Reduce the Risk of New Skin Tags
While not all skin tags are preventable, certain habits may help:
Maintain a healthy weight
Reduce skin friction
Wear breathable clothing
Manage blood sugar levels
Keep skin clean and dry
Remove tight jewelry or collars
Skin Tags and Mental Well-Being
While harmless, skin tags can affect self-confidence—especially when visible.
It’s important to remember:
Skin tags are extremely common
They are not a sign of poor hygiene
Seeking removal for comfort or confidence is valid
Cosmetic concerns are legitimate health concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are skin tags contagious?
No. Skin tags cannot spread from person to person.
Do skin tags mean I have diabetes?
Not necessarily, but multiple skin tags may be associated with insulin resistance. If concerned, speak with a healthcare provider.
Can children get skin tags?
They are rare in children but can occur.
Are skin tags cancerous?
Skin tags themselves are not cancerous. However, uncertain or changing lesions should be examined.
When to See a Doctor
Make an appointment if:
You’re unsure what the growth is
The skin tag is painful or bleeding
You want safe removal
You notice sudden changes
A professional evaluation provides peace of mind.
The Bottom Line
Skin tags are common, harmless, and manageable. While they may be annoying or cosmetically bothersome, they rarely pose medical risk. The most important thing is choosing safe, informed removal options and avoiding risky DIY methods.
Key Takeaways:
Skin tags are benign growths
Friction, hormones, and genetics play roles
Medical removal is safest
Avoid cutting or burning at home
Seek professional advice when unsure
Your skin protects you every day—treat it with care, patience, and respect.
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