Exploring the Puzzle of Skin Tags: An Examination of Their Nature and Implications
Skin tags are small, noncancerous growths that can develop anywhere on the skin. These harmless growths are quite common, as researchers suggest that 50% of all adults will experience at least one during their lives.
Skin tags are often caused by skin rubbing together or by a buildup of collagen fibers and blood vessels. They are most common in older adults, but can appear at any age. Skin tags commonly develop in areas where there are creases or folds, or where the skin rubs together, such as armpits, eyelids, the neck, under the breasts, thigh or groin areas, and the genitals.
While skin tags don't usually affect your health or cause pain, they can be uncomfortable when they rub against clothes or jewelry. If a skin tag is bothering you or if you don't like how it looks, there are options available for having it removed.
There are various treatments for skin tags, including surgical removal by a professional (such as a dermatologist) or at-home patches, creams, or kits. Over-the-counter treatments for skin tags include patches, creams, and freezing kits, similar to OTC wart removers. Natural remedies for skin tag removal include apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and iodine.
It's safer and more effective to have skin tags removed by a medical professional, such as a dermatologist. Surgical removal of skin tags can be done using a scalpel, heat cauterization, liquid nitrogen freezing, or cutting off blood circulation. Skin tag removal may cause discomfort, but a doctor may provide medication to numb the area.
It's important to note that if past skin tags have been professionally and fully removed by a dermatologist, there's little chance they will grow back, but new ones may still form in other areas. However, self-removal methods can lead to complications such as bleeding, scarring, infection, burns, and damage to surrounding skin.
Certain factors can increase the chance of developing skin tags, such as pregnancy, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, certain types of human papillomavirus, family history of skin tags, polycystic ovary syndrome, Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome or other skin disorders.
To help prevent skin tags, steer clear of clothing or accessories that may irritate the skin, maintain a moderate weight, and engage in regular exercise. After surgical removal, the area will scab over and heal, with minimal scarring if done by a medical professional.
In conclusion, skin tags are a common, harmless skin condition that can be uncomfortable but are generally not a cause for concern. If you have skin tags that are bothering you, consult a medical professional for safe and effective removal options.
