Skin Tags: Are they Treatable?

Skin tags, known as acrochordons, are harmless growths of flesh-like tissues. Though they can occur anywhere on the body and aren’t a cause for concern, many people worry that their skin tag may be more serious. 

To put your fears to rest and give you peace of mind regarding this common condition, this blog post will delve into what causes skin tags and how they’re treatable. 

So if you’ve noticed a bit of extra flesh growing around your neck or other parts of your body, don’t panic—read on to learn about understanding and managing skin tags!

What are Skin Tags?

Skin tags are small, harmless growths of excess skin typically found near areas where the skin folds, such as your underarms, eyelids, neck, or groin area. 

They range from 2mm to 5mm in diameter but can grow bigger if left untreated. Skin tags occur most frequently in people middle-aged or older but can still happen at any age.

Causes of Skin Tags

Skin tag formation is caused by the combination of friction and trapped bacteria on the surface of the skin, which is why it’s thought that people who suffer from obesity and diabetes may be more likely to get them (due to the increased amount of folding in their skin). 

There also is a genetic component, as some studies have found that family members with this condition tend to share similar genetic mutations that lead to the overproduction of keratin.

Treating Skin Tags

The good news is that while skin tags may be unsightly, they’re usually quite easy to treat! Some over-the-counter products contain salicylic acid, which helps exfoliate dead cells while reducing inflammation. 

These products are great options for mild cases of skin tag development. Alternatively, you could visit your dermatologist, who can provide more targeted treatments such as cryotherapy or surgical skin tags removal for tougher cases involving larger or multiple skin tags.

Home Remedies for Skin Tag Removal

If you’d rather take a DIY approach, you could try several home remedies, including using duct tape, apple cider vinegar, or even baking soda mixed with castor oil. 

While these techniques have been known to work for some people, it’s important to remember that none of these methods have been scientifically proven, so proceed with caution when attempting any alternative treatments.

Verdict!

So, there you have it. Skin tags are mostly harmless and can be removed quite easily if they bother you. 

Skin tags may seem intimidating at first glance; however, with proper treatment, they can quickly become a thing of the past. 

Utilizing over the counter products designed specifically for treating this issue and doctor recommended procedures like cryotherapy should give you the best chance at success when getting rid of those pesky growths. 

Also, be sure to keep an eye on them, though, as there is a very small chance they could be cancerous. 

If you have any concerns or questions about your skin tags, don’t hesitate to consult with a dermatologist or medical professional.