Understanding Skin Tags: Causes and Treatment

Skin tags, also known as papilloma or fibro-epithelial polyp, are small, benign growths that develop on the skin. They are typically skin-colored or darker and can range in size from 1 millimeter to 5 centimeters.

Common Features of Skin Tags

Skin tags are:

– Harmless and do not require removal, but may be removed for cosmetic reasons
– Commonly found in areas where skin folds or creases are present, such as eyelids, armpits, neck folds, and groins
– Composed of a collection of fibers, nerve cells, fat cells, ducts, and epidermis

When Do Skin Tags Become Conspicuous?

Skin tags can become noticeable in certain situations, such as:

– When they come into contact with clothing or jewelry that rubs or scratches them
– When they interfere with shaving
– When they become twisted or bleed

Treatment of Skin Tags

While it may be tempting to try to remove a skin tag yourself, this is not recommended as it can be painful and lead to infection. Instead, a dermatologist may use one of the following surgical procedures:

– Cauterization: using a heated probe to destroy the tissue in the skin tag
– Electrodessication: using a needle-like electrode to dry out the skin tissue
– Cyrotherapy: freezing the tissue in the skin tag, causing it to die and fall off
– Ligation: tying off the skin tag to cut off blood flow
– Excision: surgically removing the skin tag with a scalpel

Important Notes

– Skin tags on the eyelids should be treated by an ophthalmologist.
– Skin cysts, which can resemble skin tags, should not be tampered with and require medical attention if they become infected or inflamed.

References:

https://dermnetnz.org/topics/skin-tag/
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/skin-tags-and-cysts-when-you-should-worry/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/67317