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Skin tags are benign, but if you don’t like the way they look, Seth Goodman, DO, Matt Goodman, MD, and the team at Goodman Dermatology and Mohs Surgery in Sun City West and Sun City, Arizona, can remove them simply and easily. To achieve smooth skin without any skin tags, request a consultation by phone or online at Goodman Dermatology and Mohs Surgery.
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What is a skin tag?
A skin tag (also known as an acrochordon) is a small, benign growth that looks like a little flap of skin attached to a stalk. Skin tags are usually the same color as your skin, but they can be darker and may even be dark brown.
Skin tags start out about pinhead size. They usually range from two millimeters to one centimeter, but some may grow as large as five centimeters.
Skin tags usually appear on areas of your body that are subjected to friction from your other body parts or your clothing. Common areas for skin tags are:
Underarms
Eyelids
Under breasts
Neck
Upper chest
Groin
Why did I get skin tags?
Skin tags are common in both men and women, and can increase with skin friction and the aging process. You may be more likely to develop skin tags if someone in your family also has them. Conditions that may make you more likely to develop skin tags include:
Obesity
Hormonal changes due to pregnancy
Crohn’s disease and other diseases
Diabetes and other conditions
Dyslipidemia
Hypertension or high blood pressure
Abuse of steroids or other medications
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Genetic propensity
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Are skin tags dangerous?
Skin tags aren't cancerous, dangerous, or painful, but they may become irritated if your clothing, jewelry, or skin constantly rubs against them. You may also accidentally cut one off while shaving your face or underarms.
Most of the time, skin tags don’t require an examination. Rarely, if your skin tag looks suspicious for any reason, your provider may order a biopsy.
How can I get rid of skin tags?
You don’t need to get rid of skin tags unless you’re bothered by their appearance or they’ve become irritating. Removing them yourself isn’t recommended because you may bleed or develop an infection.
Your Goodman Dermatology specialist removes skin tags quickly and easily in the office using one of the following methods:
Clipping
Freezing with liquid nitrogen
Electrocautery
Shave removal with local anesthesia
When you’re tired of looking at your skin tags, or if they’re irritating you or complicating shaving, reach out to the friendly staff at Goodman Dermatology and Mohs Surgery. You can call the team directly or use the online form to book a consultation at your convenience.