Skin Tags: What Are They and How Should You Deal With Them?

 All of our bodies are built differently and there are certain aspects of our physical selves that some will have which others lack. Skin tags are one of these phenomena. But what actually are they? Are they potentially dangerous? Are they something that we have to keep and put up with if we find that we have developed them? These are questions that many of us find ourselves asking when we notice a skin tag. So, it’s time to get some answers. Read on for everything you could possibly need to know concerning skin tags!

What Actually Is a Skin Tag?

Chances are you’ve seen a skin tag at some point in your life, whether on yourself or another individual. They are relatively common. They are small, skin coloured growths that hang from the skin and slightly resemble warts. Generally speaking, they will vary between a few millimetres in diameter and up to around five centimetres (or two inches) wide. They are most commonly seen on the neck or in the armpits or groin. However, they can also be found on the eyelids or in the folds of an individual’s buttocks.

Are Skin Tags Dangerous or a Sign of Illness?

If what you have identified is definitely a skin tag, you needn’t worry. They are not dangerous and shouldn’t cause you any form of pain or discomfort.

What Do They Contain?

Skin tags are essentially made up of loose collagen fibres (a type of protein) and blood vessels. This explains why they will bleed if they are pulled or knocked too harshly.

Can They Be Removed?

While skin tags are not dangerous, you may not like the appearance of them, especially if they are in a particularly exposed part of your body. Occasionally you may find that they develop in inconvenient areas where they can get caught on clothing or jewellery. If they are affecting your confidence and self-esteem, or they are bothering you in any other way, you can look into removing skin tags. However, you should always contact your doctor first to find the best way to have this procedure carried out. Generally speaking, they will be frozen or burnt off with specialist equipment, much in the same way that warts are removed.

Can They Be Prevented?

While you can’t necessarily actively prevent the development of skin tags, it may be a good idea to bear in mind that they tend to develop in places where the skin rubs together. This is perhaps why they are more prominent in overweight individuals whose folds of skin tend to rub together more regularly. By maintaining a healthy weight, you are less likely to chafe and it is therefore less likely that these tags will develop on your body.

As you can see, skin tags may seem unfamiliar, but they are by no means something to worry about. So, if you notice one developing, don’t panic. Simply visit your doctor who will be able to ensure that it is what you think it is with a simple diagnosis.