A skin tag, also known as an acrochordon, is a small cluster of skin tissue that often looks like it’s attached to the body via a small stem or stalk. Skin tags are quite common, especially among older adults, and they’re not cancerous. However, some other skin growths that can become cancerous may resemble skin tags, so it’s a good idea to have skin tags checked periodically by a dermatologist.

What do skin tags look like?

Skin tags are usually small—only a fraction of an inch in size—and the same color as your skin. However, they can be darker and resemble a mole or wart. They can also become pink or red when irritated, usually due to friction from rubbing against clothing or jewelry.

Do skin tags cause any symptoms?

Skin tags are usually painless unless friction causes them to bleed or become sore.

What causes skin tags?

Acrochordons develop when extra cells grow in the top layers of your skin. They tend to occur in folds of skin and places where the skin rubs against itself, such as the armpits and groin. People who have numerous skin tags may have type 2 diabetes or too much insulin in their blood.

Skin tag development has also been linked to women’s hormone fluctuations during pregnancy and menopause.

Additional risk factors for developing skin tags include:

  • Genetics. People whose parents have skin tags are more likely to develop them than people who don’t.
  • Excess weight. People who are overweight are more susceptible to skin tag growth, possibly because they have more skin folds that rub against each other.
  • Age. As people age, their skin produces less collagen and elastin, which can increase their risk for skin tag development.

What are some common skin tag locations?

The most common places for skin tags to form are:

  • Armpits
  • Neck
  • Eyelids
  • Groin or thighs
  • Under the breasts
  • Genitals

Should skin tags be medically treated?

Most skin tags don’t require treatment, and many fall off on their own after a period of time. If they bleed or become sore easily or their appearance bothers you, you may wish to consult with a dermatologist about having them removed. This type of treatment is considered cosmetic, so it’s not typically covered by health insurance.

Medical professionals generally advise against removing skin tags yourself. Cutting them off at home can lead to damage of healthy skin, excessive bleeding, infection, scarring and the potential for only partial removal, which means the skin tag will likely grow back. There is at least one over-the-counter cryotherapy freezing treatment approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for skin tag removal. However, it is not recommended for skin tag removal around the eyes.

Generally, dermatologists are the best choice for skin tag removal because they’re trained in various techniques to minimize scarring, discomfort and risk for infection. A dermatologist can also evaluate and confirm that you have a harmless skin tag and not a potentially cancerous skin lesion.

Moffitt Cancer Center’s commitment to skin cancer screening

In addition to performing monthly self-examinations to check for signs of skin cancer, it’s important to see a dermatologist or skin cancer specialist for an annual screening. As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Moffitt offers the full range of services related to cancer, including education, screening, diagnosis, treatment and research. We developed a mobile skin cancer screening program known as the Mole Patrol®, which consists of a traveling team of skin cancer specialists that visits venues all over Florida to offer free screening services. If a suspicious skin lesion is detected, the team provides follow-up recommendations that can be taken to the individual’s primary care physician, one of the program’s participating affiliate clinics or Moffitt.

For more information, call 1-888-663-3488 or fill out a new patient registration form online to connect with Moffitt. You don’t need a referral to visit our cancer center.

References

Medical News Today – Can Skin Tags Be Cancerous?
American Academy of Dermatology Association – Diabetes: 12 Warning Signs That Appear on Your Skin
National Cancer Institute – Skin Tag