Skin tags are small, flesh-colored growths that appear on the skin. They are typically harmless and do not cause any pain or discomfort.
However, they can be a nuisance if they occur in areas where they are constantly rubbing against clothing or jewelry. They are more likely to occur in people who are overweight or have diabetes.
This article discusses the top 7 skin tag risk factors and everything you need to know about this skin condition.
Table of Contents
What to Know About Skin Tags
A skin tag is a small, benign growth of skin that protrudes from the surface. They are typically found on the neck, underarms, or in areas where skin rubs against skin.
Although they are harmless, some people may choose to remove them for aesthetic reasons.
How Do Skin Tags Affect My Body?
A skin tag is a small, soft growth of skin that protrudes from the surface. They are usually benign, meaning they are not cancerous but can become irritated and cause discomfort.
This skin condition is relatively common, affecting both men and women, and usually appear after the age of 30. There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing them.
What Are My Chances of Developing Skin Tags?
Based on statistics, it is estimated that around half of the adult population will have at least one skin tag in their lifetime.
While they typically form in areas where the skin rubs together, like the neck, armpits, and groin, they can also appear on the eyelids, upper chest, and under breasts. Although they are benign (noncancerous), some people may want to have them removed for aesthetic reasons.
This condition is more common in older adults, as well as people who are overweight or have diabetes.
What Are the Symptoms of Skin Tag?
Skin tags are small, soft growths that protrude from the surface of the skin. They are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
These skin growths are not dangerous and do not cause pain, but they can be annoying if they catch on clothing or jewelry. Most of them will eventually fall off on their own, but some may require treatment by a doctor if they become irritated or inflamed.
The most common symptom of a skin tag is a small growth that protrudes from the surface of the skin. These growths are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They are not dangerous and do not cause pain, but they can be annoying if they catch on clothing or jewelry.
How Are Skin Tags Diagnosed?
To diagnose a skin tag, your doctor will likely examine the growth and feel for any irregularities. If the growth is large or suspicious looking, your doctor may order a biopsy to rule out other conditions. Once diagnosed, they can be removed with simple home treatments or by a doctor.
Factors That Increase Your Risk for Skin Tags
Skin tags are common, harmless growths of skin. They can occur anywhere on the body but are most often found in areas where the skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, or neck. While they are generally not a cause for concern, there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing them.
These include:
Genetics
Genetics is a risk factor in developing skin tags because they tend to run in families. If you have a family member with this condition, you’re more likely to get them yourself.
Being female
While skin tags are benign growths, they can be unsightly and cause embarrassment. And, although both men and women can develop this condition, being female is a risk factor.
There are several reasons why being female is a risk factor in developing skin tags. First, women have more fatty tissue than men. This extra fatty tissue is often found in areas where they commonly occur, such as the neck, armpits, and groin.
Second, pregnancy increases the chances of developing skin tags. The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy cause the skin to become thicker and more prone to develop growth.
Finally, certain medical conditions that are more common in women, such as diabetes and obesity, can also lead to the development of skin tags.
Being overweight
Skin tags are more likely to develop in people who are overweight or have diabetes. This is because the extra weight can cause the skin to stretch and create folds. These folds provide a place for bacteria and yeast to grow, which can lead to skin infections.
People who are overweight also tend to have higher levels of insulin in their blood. This hormone promotes the growth of skin cells, which can make skin tags more likely to form.
Having diabetes
Diabetes is a risk factor for developing skin tags for a few reasons. For one, diabetes can cause changes in the collagen and elastin in the skin, which can lead to skin tags. Diabetes can also cause poor circulation, which can lead to these growths by trapping skin cells and debris in areas where circulation is not as efficient.
Finally, diabetes can weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to fight off infections that could cause or worsen skin tag growth.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. It can cause an imbalance in the production of androgens. This can lead to the development of skin tags, which are growths that form on the skin.
PCOS is a risk factor for developing skin tags because it can cause an increase in the levels of androgens in the body. Androgens are hormones that promote the growth of skin cells. When there is an imbalance in the levels of androgens, it can lead to the formation of skin tags.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections
HPV infections are a b in developing skin tags for several reasons. First, HPV is a virus that can be passed from person to person through contact with infected skin. Once the virus is on your skin, it can cause the growth of new skin cells. These new cells can then form into a skin tag.
Second, HPV can also weaken the immune system, making it less able to fight off other infections. This means that if you have an HPV infection, you may be more likely to develop other skin conditions like warts or eczema.
Finally, HPV can also cause changes in the DNA of skin cells. These changes can make skin cells grow out of control, leading to the formation of a skin tag.
Age-related skin changes
As we age, our skin changes. It becomes thinner and less elastic. The fatty tissues below the skin decrease and bruises happen more easily. All of these age-related skin changes are risk factors for developing skin tags.
If you have any concerns about a growth on your skin, it’s always best to see a dermatologist get it checked out. They can recommend the best skin tag treatment available. But rest assured, most skin tags are nothing to worry about.
Final Thoughts
There are several risk factors for skin tags. Some of these include age, diabetes, and obesity, pregnant women and those who have a family history of skin tags are also at a higher risk. However, skin tags are generally benign and cause no harm. If you are concerned about the appearance of skin tags, you can talk to your doctor about ways to remove them.
If you are in Houston, Texas, you can visit us at Team Dermatology. We have offices in Memorial and Sugarland, Houston, TX. We are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions. We can also advise you on how to prevent a skin tag. Our physicians are board certified in Dermatology, Microbiology, and Pathology.
