Skin Tags

Also known as acrochordon or fibroepithelial polyps, skin tags are small, benign (non cancerous) skin growths.

They are most commonly found on any part of the body which has creases such as the neck, armpits, under the breasts, groin, eyelids etc. They occur most often in middle age & later. 

The exact cause of skin tags isn't known but it is believed it may be the result of skin rubbing against skin, which is why they most often occur in areas of the body with creases. They are more common in diabetic & overweight people. HPV (human papilloma virus) types 6 & 11 have also been implicated as a cause.

Symptoms of skin tags:

• Skin tags are soft  growths that are attached to the skin by a stem-like peduncle (stork). They can range in size from the size from 1-5mm (some can grow larger).
• They are typically painless. They may become irritated if they are rubbed a lot or something (such as an item of jewellery) catches on one.
• They can be found on any part of the body, but most commonly occur where there are skin folds.

Skin tag removal:

Skin tags are harmless & don't need to be removed. However, some people may be uncomfortable about their appearance. They can be removed by the following methods;

• Cauterisation (burning)
• Cryosurgery (freezing)
• Surgical ligation
• Excision

Home remedies include tying dental floss or a small piece of thread around the base of the skin tag & leaving until it drops off. Another method is to snip the tag(s) off with a pair of sharp, sterile scissors. There is always a risk of infection removing skin tags at home.