What is a skin tag? 

A skin tag is a small, soft, non-cancerous growth of skin that usually forms in skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, or under the breasts. They’re benign, not contagious, and most of the time they don’t need medical treatment. Knowing how to identify a skin tag and recognising what a skin tag looks like can help you choose to either let it be or remove it. 

What does a skin tag look like? 

Skin tags are typically flesh-coloured, or occasionally brownish. They are either smooth or wrinkled and can be 2 to 5 millimetres in length with some even larger. Most grow either flat against the skin or appear to hang from a small stalk referred to medically as a peduncle. 

If you’re thinking about removing skin tags for aesthetic reasons, it’s interesting to understand what it really is. Though they look like warts or small moles, skin tags are noticeably soft to the touch and can slide back and forth when pinched lightly. 

They don’t usually cause discomfort unless irritated by friction or snagging on clothing or jewellery, which can occasionally happen in high-contact areas like the neckline or waistband. 

To define skin tag more precisely: it is a non-cancerous growth composed of collagen fibres and blood vessels, enclosed in skin, often forming in high-friction areas of the body. 

Who Gets Skin Tags? 

Although skin tags can affect anyone, adults over 40 are more likely to get them. They usually show up in places where the skin rubs against one another frequently, like the groin, under the arms, around the neck, or under the breasts.  

Skin tags may be more likely to appear on you if:  

• You’re obese or overweight.  

• You suffer from insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.  

• Because of changes in your hormones, you are pregnant.  

• Skin tags are in your family’s history. 

People who wear tightly fitting clothes or jewellery in friction-prone areas may also notice skin tags forming more frequently. 

Are Skin Tags Harmful? 

Skin tags are generally completely harmless. They are not medically dangerous and do not indicate any underlying illness.  

 They may, however, become irritating, particularly if they are in an area with a lot of friction or if they come into contact with jewellery or clothing. Some might just be cosmetic concerns, while others might bleed or become inflamed. In these situations, you might think about getting rid of the skin tags for aesthetic or comfort reasons. If a skin tag changes suddenly in size, colour, or texture, it’s advisable to seek medical advice to rule out other skin conditions. 

Skin Tag Removal  

In a clinical setting, removing skin tags is a simple procedure. Although removal of skin tags may seem tempting to do yourself, opting for professional removal is safer and more effective. Typical techniques consist of:  

Common methods include: 

• Cryotherapy – freezing the tag with liquid nitrogen 

• Snip excision – cutting the tag off with a sterile surgical tool 

• Cautery – using controlled heat to remove the tag 

The advantages? Fast removal, irritant relief, and enhanced appearance. The drawbacks? Private clinics frequently charge a fee, there may be some minor discomfort, and there is a chance of minor scarring. We suggest a reputable clinic like minoroperations for safe, efficient removal. 

Final Thoughts 

Skin tags are very common and typically not harmful. You can feel more comfortable handling skin tags if you know what they are and how to recognise their appearance. If you’re ever unsure or considering removing your skin tags yourself, speak to a GP or dermatologist first. Professional advice ensures you get the right diagnosis and the safest outcome.