Growing older brings with it various skin-care challenges – some great, some tiny. In the catego-ry of tiny challenges are those are the little flaps of skin on your neck or under your arms. They are flesh-colored, acquired, non-cancerous growths with the scientific name of acrochordons. They are commonly called “skin tags” or “barnacles,” but whatever you call them, if you have them, you are not alone. Half of the population of the U.S. will have a skin tag at some point in their life. Skin tags are typically thought to occur where skin rubs against itself or clothing. They are harmless and do not have to be treated unless they are bothersome.
• On the eyelids
• Under the breast
• In the groin and buttocks folds
• At the base of the neck
• Under the arms
Obesity and aging are commonly associated with skin tag development. Elevations in hormone levels may cause an increase in skin tags, as skin tags are more frequent in pregnant women.
They can vary in number from one to hundreds and men and women, alike, are equally prone to developing skin tags.
Early on, skin tags may be as tiny as a pin-head but some may become as large as a grape. Even though their appearance is not appealing, skin tags generally cause no physical discomfort, and can be easily removed by a doctor or a dermatologist. Treatments include freezing, tying off with a suture or thread or simply cutting off the tag (but, please, don’t try this at home!).
There is no strong evidence to suggest that common skin tags are contagious; people do not catch them from anyone and do not transmit them to anyone. Some people are more prone to developing skin tags than others and may have new growths periodically which require yearly or quarterly removal but skin tags do not “seed” or spread if they are removed.
Do You Have Skin Tags That Bother You?
Call (281) 313-7435 to schedule a consultation or use our Online Form.
