Skin tags

Understanding Skin Tags & Treatment Options

Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that often appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing—like the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, or under the breasts. Though harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern or cause discomfort if irritated.

What Causes Skin Tags?

Skin tags are caused by collagen and blood vessels trapped inside thicker bits of skin. While anyone can develop them, they’re more common in adults, particularly those who are:

• Overweight
• Diabetic
• Pregnant (due to hormonal changes)
• Genetically predisposed

Are Skin Tags Dangerous?

Generally, no. Skin tags are non-cancerous and pose no medical threat. However, it’s important to have any new or changing growth evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out other skin conditions.

Treatment Options

If skin tags are bothersome, removal is quick and effective:

• Cryotherapy: Freezing the tag off with liquid nitrogen.
• Cauterization: Burning the tag off using heat.
• Excision: Cutting it off with sterile surgical tools.
• Ligation: Tying it off to cut off blood flow, causing it to fall off.

All procedures are performed in-office, typically with little to no downtime.

When to See a Dermatologist

Don’t attempt to remove skin tags at home—it can lead to infection or scarring. A board-certified dermatologist ensures safe, effective treatment tailored to your skin.