Skin tags are very common and can occur on various parts of the body. Although harmless, skin tags can be uncomfortable and embarrassing to have. Skin tags are small pieces of soft hanging noncancerous skin. In some instances, when they’re very small they fall off on their own or can be rubbed off easily. Skin tags are most commonly found around the neck, on the breast and groin region, and under the arms. Skin tags are known to be caused by chronic friction. They typically occur in over weight individuals, during pregnancy, or due to other genetic variables. Like mentioned previously, skin tags are harmless and pose no real threat. However, their placement on the body can cause potential harm if they’re near sensitive areas. For example, if you happen to get a skin tag near your eye, it can potentially impair your vision. Additionally, if you have skin tags near areas where they can get caught in a zipper it can be painful and cause bleeding.
There are various procedures that can be utilized to remove skin tags. One option is cauterization, which is when the skin tag is removed through electrolysis. Essentially, electrolysis will burn off the skin tags using a probe that is passing an electric current through it. Another option is cryosurgery, which is when the skin tag is frozen with liquid nitrogen and causes it to fall off. Ligation can also be used, and this is when the blood supply to the skin tag is cut off. Lastly, there is excision which is when you can simply cut the skin tag with a scalpel. All of these procedures should only be administered by medical professionals because there is always a chance of possible infection or excessive bleeding.
The same skin tags are unlikely to reappear once they’ve been removed although new ones can be formed in the same area. Additionally, it is not probable that you can completely eliminate skin tags from emerging. However, if you dramatically lose weight you may notice that skin tags won’t appear as often as before. Skin tags are pesky but usually benign, if you’re unsure of whether you have a skin tag or a cyst always consult a medical professional for safe measures. If your skin tags don’t bother you and don’t get in the way of your daily life, then you have one less thing to worry about!
