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What are skin tags?

Skin tags are growths that typically look like little flaps of extra skin. They’re usually the same color or a little darker than your natural skin tone. 

Skin tags usually appear in areas such as:

  • Underarms
  • Eyelids
  • Groin fold
  • Under breasts in women 
  • Neck

Anybody can develop skin tags, and in fact most people do develop at least one during their lifetime. 

What causes skin tags?

Skin tags develop because of skin-on-skin friction but can also occur when the skin frequently rubs against jewelry or clothing. You’re more likely to develop skin tags if you struggle with your weight, have loose folds of skin, or are pregnant.  

Skin tags are also more common in people who have diabetes, so it might be connected to insulin resistance.

Can skin tags be cancerous?

Skin tags are noncancerous, but other types of potentially cancerous skin growths can be mistaken for skin tags. So if you develop a new skin growth, especially one that appears suddenly or changes rapidly, it’s best to schedule an exam. The team can perform a biopsy to check for skin cancer if necessary.

When should I get treated for skin tags?

Skin tags aren’t harmful, so they don’t necessarily require treatment. However, if your skin tags are uncomfortable, embarrassing, or cause any type of distress, you should seek treatment. 

Fortunately, skin tags are easily treated, and it’s an area that the Associates in Dermatology team specializes in. They also provide mole examination and removal in their three Florida offices. 

What are the treatment options for skin tags? 

Skin tag removal usually takes one of the following paths.

  • Cryosurgery: Freezing the skin tag, which kills it and causes it to fall off
  • Electrodesiccation: Zapping the skin tag with an electrical current to kill it
  • Snip removal: Precise removal of the skin tag using a surgical blade 

With cryosurgery and electrodesiccation, the skin tag turns into a blister or scab.  It then takes around 1-2 weeks for the skin tag to fall off. With snip removal, you get immediate results. 

If your skin tags feel irritating, uncomfortable, or embarrassing, you shouldn’t have to live with them any longer. 

Associates in Dermatology can remove your skin tags in a short appointment in the office, and you can have smooth skin very quickly. Call the nearest office or book your appointment using the online feature now.