Skin tags- those small, soft, skin-colored growths that can suddenly appear on your skin- are often harmless. They commonly appear in areas where your skin folds or experiences friction, such as the neck, underarms, or eyelids. While skin tags are not usually a cause for concern, some people wonder if they pose any health risks. This article will clarify when skin tags are benign and when you’ll need to search for a “dermatologist near me” for evaluation.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are tiny, flesh-colored growths that dangle from the skin’s surface. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and often appear in clusters. Skin tags are made up of loose collagen fibers, blood vessels, and skin cells. While they can occur in anyone, they tend to be more common in individuals with certain risk factors.

Common causes of skin tags include friction between skin folds, aging, hormonal changes, and genetics. They are frequently found in overweight or diabetic people, and pregnant women may also notice them due to hormonal shifts during pregnancy.

Are Skin Tags Dangerous?

In most cases, skin tags are completely harmless. They do not turn into cancer, and they do not usually indicate any underlying medical problem. However, it’s essential to distinguish skin tags from other types of skin growths that could be more concerning.

For instance, moles, warts, or other skin lesions may resemble skin tags at first glance but could have different health implications. Moles, in particular, can develop into melanoma, a type of skin cancer, if they change shape, size, or color. It’s important to note that skin tags do not share this risk, but having multiple new skin growths appear suddenly should still prompt caution.

While skin tags are benign, they can become bothersome if located in high-friction areas. They might get caught on clothing or jewelry, leading to discomfort or even bleeding.

When Skin Tags Might Be a Concern

Although skin tags are generally harmless, there are a few situations where you may want to have them evaluated by a dermatologist. These include:

• Unusual growth patterns: If a skin tag suddenly increases in size, changes color, or starts to bleed, it could be a sign that something else is happening.
• Chronic irritation or infection: Skin tags that frequently rub against clothing or jewelry can become irritated. If a skin tag is painful, bleeds regularly, or shows signs of infection, consult a dermatologist.
• Sensitive locations: Some skin tags form in particularly sensitive areas, such as around the eyes. In these cases, they may interfere with daily activities like blinking or putting in contact lenses. Skin tags in these areas may require professional removal to avoid further irritation.

While many skin tags are easy to identify, some growths that look like skin tags may actually be something else. It’s important to avoid self-diagnosing, as other conditions, such as seborrheic keratosis or warts, can resemble skin tags.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you have any doubts about a skin tag, especially if it appears abnormal or causes discomfort, it wouldn’t hurt to search for a “dermatologist near me” to get it checked.

Consider visiting a dermatologist if you notice:

• Irregular growth patterns: If the skin tag changes rapidly in size, color, or texture, it’s time to seek professional advice.
• Chronic irritation: If the skin tag is in an area where it is constantly irritated or causes pain, a dermatologist can recommend safe removal options.
• Cosmetic concerns: If skin tags make you feel self-conscious, a dermatologist can remove them for cosmetic reasons, leaving your skin smooth and tag-free.

Also, if multiple skin tags appear suddenly and without explanation, it could be related to insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances. A dermatologist can guide you toward proper diagnosis and treatment if necessary.

How Dermatologists Treat Skin Tags

The good news is that skin tags are easy to remove. A dermatologist can safely and effectively eliminate skin tags using one of several methods:

• Cryotherapy: The skin tag is frozen off using liquid nitrogen.
• Cauterization: The skin tag is burned off using an electric current.
• Excision: The dermatologist cuts off the skin tag with sterile scissors or a scalpel.

Each of these methods is quick and usually leaves minimal scarring. A dermatologist will determine the best option based on the size and location of the skin tag.