Skin tags are those tiny flaps of skin that seem to pop up out of nowhere. Despite being a common phenomenon, nobody enjoys finding a random new bump on their body, especially if it’s in a visible area of their skin. You may try to poke it or prod it, but no matter what, they don’t seem to budge.
While panicking in such situations is an understandable reaction, it’s important to remember that skin tags are typically harmless pieces of your skin. Yet, many may find them a nuisance and want to deal with them as quickly as possible. But before taking any action, understand what are skin tags, what causes skin tags, and are skin tags bad.
What Are Skin Tags?
Medically known as acrochordons, they are small, soft growths that typically hang off the skin by a thin stalk. They’re usually flesh-colored or slightly darker than your skin tone and about the size of a small pea. While they might not be the most aesthetically pleasing, the good news is they’re entirely benign and generally pose no health threat.
These pesky little growths have a knack for popping up in areas where skin experiences friction, whether from skin-to-skin contact or the constant rub of clothing. That’s why you’ll often see them in areas such as the eyelids, neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts. They are common and usually sighted as we age, but they can happen to anyone, regardless of your skin type, gender, or age.
What Causes Skin Tags to Occur?
The exact reason behind their occurrence is still unknown, but we know skin tags are made of collagen and blood vessels, and friction is one of the most common factors affecting them. Hormonal changes, obesity, and medical conditions like diabetes may also predispose individuals to skin tag formation.
While these factors are associated with skin tags, it’s essential to note that they are usually harmless and benign. However, if you have concerns about skin tags or notice any changes in size, color, or shape, it’s advisable to consult a professional for evaluation and possible removal.
Are Skin Tags Bad?
Skin tags are not desirable to our bodies, but they are not necessarily bad or harmful. While skin tags may not pose a direct health risk, their association with insulin resistance and hypertension highlights the importance of proactive health management.
If you ever notice increased skin tags or experience other symptoms associated with these conditions, you should consider seeking medical consultation to address your underlying health concerns.
How to Prevent Skin Tags?
While what causes remains a mystery, avoiding them isn’t always possible either. However, you can take some essential steps to reduce your chances of getting new ones. Maintaining your body mass is one of the most effective ways to prevent it from occurring.
More weight means more skin, leading to more friction and skin tags. So, maintain a healthy weight to prevent them from occurring or growing any bigger. Always keep your blood sugar levels stable and be aware of the slightest changes in your body, including the growth of moles or more tags.
How to Remove Skin Tags?
One of the most common methods is to have them professionally removed by a dermatologist by either cutting them off with a scalpel or scissors (excision), freezing them with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy), or burning them off with an electrical current (cauterization).
These procedures are quick and relatively less painful, and your dermatologist will advise you on the best option based on the size, location, and number of skin tags you have. But if you prefer a more natural approach and end up searching on the internet, “How to remove skin tags at home?” We have a few at-home remedies to prevent them from growing any bigger.
One option is to apply over-the-counter products like skin tag removal creams or solutions containing salicylic acid or tea tree oil. Another effective method, especially if obesity is a concern, is to focus on weight loss to reduce skin-to-skin friction, thus minimizing the risk of new formings.
Also, moisturize the prone areas as part of your skincare routine. While these methods may take longer to show results than professional removal, they can be effective for more petite skin tags.
When to Visit a Dermatologist?
People often wonder when the right time to show them to a professional is. Well, if your skin tags are getting all irritated, bleeding, or causing you any discomfort, that’s a sign it’s time to set up an appointment with your dermatologist.
If you have many of them hanging around, especially in spots that are hard to ignore, you should get them checked out. Also, watch for changes in your skin tags’ size, color, or shape. Remember, your skin’s health is nothing to mess around with, so if in doubt, check it out!
In a world with overwhelming beauty standards and societal pressures, it’s easy to feel self-conscious about our imperfections. But remember that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and forms, including those pesky skin tags.
Whether you embrace them as part of your natural beauty or bid them farewell, the choice is yours. Skin tags are simply a reminder of our individuality, unique in their presence but inconsequential in defining our worth. So, don’t shy away; instead, embrace your natural beauty as a part of your individuality and seek medical consultation if needed.
