We worry about many aspects of our skin when we are young; is it healthy, do we have acne, will
we have to worry about sun damage? As we get older, however, we may find ourselves dealing with
another issue: skin tags. Skin tags are common skin growths that look like a small piece of skin
hanging from our bodies. They most commonly occur on the eyelids, underarms, at the neck base, in
groin folds, and under the breasts, although they can occur wherever skin rubs against clothing or
other skin. They may be smooth or slightly wrinkled and the color of flesh or a bit more brown, and
seem to hang from a small, thin stalk from the skin. Although they are usually small (2-5mm in
diameter), they may grow as large as one to five centimeters in diameter. Skin tag removal can be
easy with a little research.
Here is a video with good explanation of what skin tags are:
Most people will acquire skin tags at some point in their lives, although most cases occur in
adulthood. Middle-age is the most active time for them, and they tend to increase in rate up to the
age of 60. They are thought to arise most often in areas where skin is rubbed or experiences
friction. Hormone elevations may cause an increase in skin tags, and pregnant women seem to have
them more frequently. Contrary to popular belief, skin tag removal will not cause others to grow
or spread. Some people are simply more prone to skin tags than others. Skin tag removal may not be
necessary unless they have become bothersome, as they are benign and not associated with other
major medical conditions. If you experience bumps that resemble skin tags but are a combination of
pink, red, brown, or black, or that bleed or grow, you will want to visit your doctor to have the
bumps tested.
A few options exist for skin tag removal. For instance, using a piece of dental floss or string
to tie the skin tag off at the base can cause it to fall off. They can be removed with scissors,
either with or without anesthesia. Removal with scissors can cause bleeding, although it usually
stops quickly. Smaller tags can usually be removed without the anesthesia, although larger tags may
need injected lidocaine. A topical anesthesia may be required for areas with many skin tags. They
can also be frozen with liquid nitrogen, or burned off with a cauterizing tool by a doctor. These
methods can result in temporary discoloration or a repeat proceeding if the first does not
work.
Dermatologists, internal medical physicians, and family physicians most commonly conduct skin
tag removal, although an eye specialist may be necessary if the skin tag is close to the eyelid.
Most skin tags will not be sent out for biopsy unless they have bled or rapidly changed color or
size. Although a few have been shown to contain skin cancer cells, this is rare.
Skin tag removal is not a medical necessity, although many people who experience this nuisance
wish to get rid of them for cosmetic reasons. Small skin tags may be easy to get rid of in your own
home and with a minimum of cost and discomfort!
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