Summary
Skin tags are small, fleshy growths attached to the skin by a stalk, commonly found in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin, particularly in middle-aged individuals. While their exact cause is unknown, factors such as pregnancy and family history may increase the likelihood of developing them. Skin tags are generally painless but can cause irritation depending on their location. Removal should be performed by a board-certified dermatologist using methods like surgical excision, freezing, or burning, as at-home removal can lead to complications.
They seem to come out of nowhere. What is this patch of skin just hanging there?
Skin tags are more common than you may think. They appear on both humans and animals, but what exactly are they? Can they be removed?
What are skin tags?
“Skin tags are small pieces of flesh that at attached to your skin through a stem or stalk,” stated Dr. Gabriela Maloney, board-certified dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology. “They are commonly found in the folds of a skin around your neck, armpits or groin area. They start appearing on individuals are middle age. Skin tags are not painful and normally do not effect daily movement, but depending a skin tags location it can produce friction and irritate them.”
What causes skin tags?
The cause of skin tags is unknown, but pregnancy and family history may predispose you to developing them.
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Find a location near youHow do I remove a skin tag?
“Leave skin tag removal to the professionals,” added Dr. Maloney. “Your local board-certified dermatologist has three options for skin tag removal, dependent on its location and your dermatologist’s preference. The removal options include severing the skin tag with a surgical scissors or scalpel, freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, or burning the skin tag at the base, or stem, of the skin tag. Attempting to remove a skin tag at home can lead to infection or permanent scarring.”
Skin Struggles?
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About Forefront Dermatology
At Forefront Dermatology, we believe that healthy, beautiful skin is a reflection of overall well-being. That's why we're committed to providing the highest quality skin and body care, backed by cutting-edge technology and a team of world-class experts. In other words, we're always at the forefront of skin and body healthcare.
Our goal isn't just about how you look on the outside. We aim to transform lives.
By delivering industry-leading skin and body healthcare to more people in more places, we move closer and closer to this goal for thousands of people every day.