Skin Tags

Skin tags can be uncomfortable and annoying. If you have these benign growths on your body, the team at Colorado Skin Care, led by Kimberly Stone, MD, and Amy Huber, PA-C, can evaluate your skin condition and provide treatment if desired. Call the friendly practice in Englewood, Colorado, today or book an appointment online when you’re ready.

What is a skin tag?

A skin tag is a small, benign growth on your skin's surface. Typically, they’re soft, flesh-colored, or slightly darker and often hang off your skin connected by a narrow stalk. 

Skin tags can vary in size from a few millimeters to larger than a centimeter. They’re commonly found in areas where your skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as your neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and under your breasts.

What causes skin tags?

The precise cause of skin tags isn't definitively understood, but they're believed to arise from the rubbing or friction between skin surfaces. They can be caused by factors such as:

• Hormonal changes
• Obesity
• Genetics
• Age

In addition, if you have a condition like diabetes or if you’re predisposed to developing skin tags due to genetics, you might be more prone to having them.

Are skin tags dangerous to my health?

In general, skin tags are harmless and don't pose a significant health risk. They don't turn into cancer and aren’t infectious. However, they can cause discomfort or irritation, especially when they rub against clothing or jewelry. 

In rare cases, a skin tag might become twisted, which can cut off its blood supply and lead to pain or bleeding. If a skin tag changes in appearance, size, or color or becomes painful, consult your Colorado Skin Care provider to rule out any serious issues.

How are skin tags treated or removed?

If you choose to have your skin tags removed, several methods are available, including:

Excision

After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, your provider can cut off your skin tag with a scalpel or scissors.

Cryotherapy

This method involves freezing the skin tag using liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off after some time.

Ligation

Ligation involves tying off the base of the skin tag using surgical thread or floss to cut off its blood supply, which leads to it eventually falling off.

Cauterization

This method involves burning off the skin tag using an electrical current or a special solution.

Over-the-counter remedies like creams, lotions, or home remedies are also available, but their effectiveness varies, and caution should be exercised when attempting self-removal methods.

If you have concerns about skin tags, call or book an appointment online at Colorado Skin Care today.