Skin Tags

Skin tags are a common skin condition in which a small button or flap of skin grows on the skin's surface. A skin tag can be lighter, darker or the same color as one's own skin. They can be found on any part of the body, including the eyes or neck. There are even genital skin tags. They are in no way dangerous and do no lead to other types of disease. At times, skin tags can become irritated if constantly rubbed by such things as clothing, jewelry or zippers. This prompts many to remove skin tags. Although it is unknown what causes skin tags, heredity does seem to play a factor with these harmless growths.

While many have this condition in their family back ground, not all persons will develop skin tags. The suspected skin tag causes that trigger development in some do not trigger the growth of skin tags in others. It is suspected that growth hormones, insulin resistance and even the virus that causes warts can be what jumpstarts the growth of skin tags in many people. They are often found in the part of the population that is obese and with those who suffer from type 2 diabetes. Although they often develop in men and women later in life, it is not uncommon for them to be found on children.

There are several different types of skin tags. They are commonly referred to as acrochordons, papillomas, soft fibromas, filiform and pedunculated. Pictures of skin tags show the filiform tags are threadlike while the pedunculated grow in the form of a stalk. The size of a skin tag can range from 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters. Because they are often found in the folds of the skin, it is also suspected that rubbing or chafing also plays a role in the development of skin tags. Even with the number of descriptive names and categories, skin tags are commonly known and referred to as simply skin tags.

Although benign and harmless, many find the appearance of skin tags unsightly and wish to have them removed. Many look for ways to cure, remove skin tags for good and keep them from growing back. Skin tag removal consists of several options.

Cryotherapy or freezing is an option, as is surgical excision, which is basically cutting off a skin tag. Ligation is also an option. This procedure consists of tying a skin tag removal string around the growth. Many wonder how to remove skin tags at home. Because of the risk of infection, home removal of skin tags by cutting is never recommended. There are plenty of home remedies for getting rid of skin tags using such things as mineral slats and herbs. One should never try removing skin tags that are infected or painful.