Skin tags, medically referred to as acrochordons, are common, benign skin growths composed of loose collagen fibres and blood vessels covered by normal skin. They typically develop in areas where the skin experiences friction, such as skin folds, and are generally harmless.
Skin tags are small, soft growths that may be flesh-coloured or slightly darker than the surrounding skin. They are usually connected to the skin by a narrow stalk called a peduncle, which distinguishes them from other skin lesions such as moles or warts. The size of skin tags can range from a few millimetres to over a centimetre, with most being less than 5 mm in diameter.
Skin tags typically form in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing:
Skin tags are more common in adults over the age of 50, in individuals with obesity, those with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, and people with a family history of these lesions. Despite their prevalence, skin tags are completely benign and are not associated with malignancy.
Most skin tags are asymptomatic and painless. They are soft, pedunculated, and often go unnoticed unless located in areas prone to friction. When irritation occurs, skin tags can become red, itchy, inflamed, or occasionally bleed. Multiple skin tags may also be a cosmetic concern, especially in visible areas such as the neck or eyelids.
While the exact mechanisms behind skin tag formation are not fully understood, several factors contribute to their development:
Skin tags are non-infectious and do not transmit between individuals. However, a sudden increase in number should be evaluated to ensure they are not another type of lesion requiring further investigation.
Skin tags are usually diagnosed clinically by a GP or dermatologist based on their appearance, size, texture, and location. Dermoscopy may be used to examine the lesion more closely and differentiate it from other skin conditions such as moles, seborrhoeic keratoses, or warts.
In atypical cases, such as when a lesion is rapidly growing, pigmented, irregular, or symptomatic, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the benign nature of the growth and rule out malignancy. For most classic skin tags, diagnosis is straightforward and does not require additional tests.
Since skin tags are benign, treatment is optional. Removal may be considered if the lesions cause discomfort, irritation, or cosmetic concern.
Common medical removal methods include:
These procedures are performed in a clinical setting to minimise risks of infection, bleeding, or scarring. Home remedies are generally discouraged due to potential complications.
Skin tags are harmless and noncancerous. Once removed, they typically do not regrow at the same site. However, new skin tags may develop elsewhere over time, particularly in individuals with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, or older age. Recurrence is possible but does not indicate any serious health concern.
With proper monitoring and professional management, skin tags pose no long-term medical risk and can be safely managed for cosmetic or comfort purposes.
There is no guaranteed method to prevent skin tags, but reducing risk factors may help:
