Skin Tags

What It Is

Skin tags are harmless pieces of skin that hang off the body and form primarily in the skin folds. They also occur on the face, usually on the eyelids. They are very common and occur in both males and females equally. They range in size from two to five millimeters, although larger ones have been seen. The skin tags may be smooth or irregular in appearance. These may be raised from the surface of the skin on a fleshy stalk or peduncle. They’re usually flesh coloured or slightly brown in colour. Microscopically,skin tags consist of a fibrovascular core, sometimes also with fat cells, covered by an unremarkable epidermis.

The removal of skin tags is mainly for cosmetic or aesthetic reasons. Sometimes, especially in areas that it may rub against something such as clothing, jewelry, or skin, they may be removed due to irritation. Shaving can also be made easier with the removal of a large skin tag from the face or under the arms. Home remedies to remove skin tags are not recommended due to a high risk of bleeding and the possibility of infection.

The cause of skin tag formation is not clearly understood. It may happen when clusters of blood vessels and collagen get trapped inside pieces of thicker skin. Because they are more common in the skin folds, skin tags may be the result of friction when skin rubs against skin. There is some correlation between skin tags and obesity, diabetes, pregnancy, aging and heredity.

How It’s Treated

• Surgical Procedure – Local anaesthesia will be applied to the treatment area and the skin tag(s) will be removed with a sharp scalpel.