\n Moles,
\n pimples
\n ,
\n freckles
\n – The blemishes that may appear on our skin come in various forms. Some are irritating, while others are relatively harmless \u2014 they aren\u2019t major inconveniences, but we notice them nonetheless. Skin tags fit this description well. They\u2019re extremely prevalent\u2014almost everybody encounters at least one during their lifetime\u2014but despite being so common, they can still be quite bothersome.\n<\/p>\n
\n Occasionally mistaken for moles, skin tags appear as tiny, flesh-toned growths.
\n noncancerous growths
\n Attached to the skin\u2019s surface via a thin stalk, these growths typically develop in areas where the skin creases, such as the neck, chest, armpits, groin, and eyelids. The downside? You likely won\u2019t escape developing skin tags altogether. However, the silver lining is that they can be readily removed through a visit to your dermatologist.\n<\/p>\n
\n Up ahead, dermatologists shed light on everything from the removal of skin tags to their underlying causes.\n<\/p>\n
\n Neal Schultz
\n , MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, hosts DermTV.com, and is also the founder of BeautyRx by Dr. Schultz.\n<\/p>\n
\n Kavita Mariwalla
\n , MD, is a dual-board certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon.\n<\/p>\n
\n In the field of medicine, skin tags are referred to as acrochordons or fibroepithelial polyps. Essentially, these occur when additional skin cells develop on the surface of the skin. As explained by dermatologist Neal Schultz, MD, speaking to SANGGRALOKA, \u201cThese protrusions extend outward from your body yet remain vertical.\u201d He further clarifies that typically, their length significantly exceeds their breadth; sometimes appearing almost suspended by a slender stalk. Fortunately, such growths generally pose little threat and tend to be more bothersome rather than harmful. According to Dr. Schultz, “While they aren\u2019t dangerous, they can certainly be irritating and troublesome.” Moreover, removing them often requires some form of intervention since they probably will not disappear naturally.\n<\/p>\n
\n What we understand: roughly half of all U.S. adults experience skin tags. What remains unclear: the exact cause of these growths.\n<\/p>\n
\n “Partly, these growths are genetic and often appear in areas with skin-on-skin contact, such as folds of skin,” explains Dr. Schultz. These conditions tend to affect people who are middle-aged, overweight, or diabetic. The irritation from skin rubbing against itself or clothing might lead to skin tags. Therefore, reducing this friction\u2014by wearing loose clothes, taking off necklaces, and using anti-chafing products\u2014could improve the condition.\n<\/p>\n
\n Although skin tags pose no harm, it\u2019s perfectly understandable to consider having them removed. Just like for any other skin issue, consulting a dermatologist regarding potential treatments is advisable. While learning self-removal methods can be helpful, getting this procedure done professionally remains ideal. \u201cIt may not require eight years of schooling to get rid of a skin tag,\u201d explains Dr. Schultz, \u201cbut some fundamental guidelines must still be followed.\u201d Additionally, Dermatologist Kavita Mariwalla, MD, points out: \u201cGiven their attachment via a tiny piece of skin, visiting a clinic where professionals handle removal safely would be the simplest approach.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n Understand that various techniques can be used for removing these growths. A method favored by many dermatologists includes applying a local anesthetic to numb the area followed by excising the lesion using sharp, sterile scissors. \u201cYou remain fully conscious during this process; you only feel a slight prick from a tiny needle,\u201d explains Dr. Mariwalla. She adds that the procedure leaves behind a minor incision which typically heals within a few days.\n<\/p>\n
\n Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the skin tag, is one alternative method, along with cauterization, where heat is used instead. However, this approach does not top Dr. Schultz\u2019s preference list. He explains, \u201cThe process of freezing can be quite imprecise and often ends up affecting the surrounding skin area.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n Indeed, it can be done, but it\u2019s strongly advised against. As Dr. Mariwalla points out, \u201cAttempting to remove them yourself might lead to incorrect execution, causing the skin tag to get inflamed and possibly infected.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n If you can\u2019t consult a dermatologist or an expert, and you believe it\u2019s absolutely necessary
\n must
\n Dr. Schultz recommends removing a skin tag yourself by first cleaning the string, the tag, and the nearby area with alcohol. Then, tie a snug length of thread around the base of the skin tag to restrict blood flow. Afterward, sterilize small scissors and use them to snip off the tag above where the thread is tied. Once done, apply alcohol to clean the site again, then cover it with an ointment followed by a bandage. Keep it covered as it heals to prevent scarring.\n<\/p>\n
\n However, once more, removing them at home doesn\u2019t have a doctor\u2019s approval. “Just be cautious with those.”
\n DIY
\n As Dr. Mariwalla explains, “The solutions you often see advertised on television or online operate by inducing a significant irritative contact dermatitis. The skin tags drop off as the area becomes extremely inflamed.”\n<\/p>\n
\n – Additional contributions from Emily Orofino, Holly Carter, and Jessica Harrington\n<\/p>\n
Jessica Harrington
\nThe senior beauty editor at SANGGRALOKA, where she pens articles on hair, skincare, cosmetics, piercings, tattoos, and much more, is based in New York City. With a background in journalism and over eight years of professional experience, her interests include interviewing specialists from the field, staying current with emerging trends, and evaluating novel items.<\/p>\n
\n Danielle Jackson
\n was previously an assistant beauty editor at SANGGRALOKA.\n<\/p>\n
\n Emily Orofino
\n was previously a beauty editor at SANGGRALOKA.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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