A skin tag is one of those dermatological issues that is just a nuisance and not really a health concern. They can pop up anywhere but do tend to stick around some typical areas. Most people get them at least some point in their lives. We know you don’t want them or like them at all and if you want to get a skin tag removed, we offer that service for you.
Do I Need to Get My Skin Tags Removed?
That’s really up to you. A common place for skin tags to pop up is around the eyes and those can be annoying when you can see it all day long. Any skin condition you are concerned about and especially if it is changing shape and size, you should come in to see us and let one of us just take a look at it. Going to the dermatologist is not like going to the dentist; there’s nothing to stress about. We don’t have drills for your mouth!
Sometimes, but not very often, a skin tag will fall off by itself. Even if the skin tag doesn’t fall off on its own, you probably don’t need to worry about getting it removed because they are inherently benign. Do not try and remove your skin tags at home. These are still filled with nerves and it will hurt if you try to do yourself and you might leave yourself with a nasty scar you could’ve avoided.
So What is a Skin Tag?
A skin tag, also known as an acrochordon, cutaneous papilloma, cutaneous tag, fibroepithelial polyp, fibroma molluscum, fibroma pendulum, papilloma colli, soft fibroma, and Templeton skin tag, is a small tag of skin which may have a peduncle (stalk) – they look like a small piece of soft, hanging skin.
– Medical News Today
These are still attached to your circulatory system, so if they are cut, rubbed against, or put under too much pressure they can burst and bleed. Often times jewelry wearers have to get skin tags removed from around their neck because necklaces will rub and catch on the skin.
Common Places to Find Skin Tags
- Near and around eyelids
- Under armpits
- Under breasts and around chest
- Around the groin
- Base of the neck
What Causes Them?
Remember that these are very common. In fact, as many as 59% of the population will get skin tags before they are 70. But there are some people that have been proven to be more susceptible.
- Obese individuals – often because of skin folds
- Diabetics – read a study about the link between diabetes and skin tags
- Pregnant women – often related to hormonal imbalances
- Athletes or others who use illegal steroids – they interfere with the body and muscles, causing the collagen fibers in the skin to bond, allowing skin tags to be formed.
Lots of people deal with skin tags. You are not alone. If you want to have it removed come see us and we will explain your options. Please remember this is not an at-home activity. Nothing good will come of the old myth of tying a string around it.
