How does skin tag look like? Skin tag appearance Skin tags are skin colored growths which can range from 1 mm to 5 cms. in size. They typically have a small stalk that attaches them to the skin. They are painless, and if they are painful then you must immediately show this to a doctor. Sometimes they can appear like threads and they are called filiform skin tags.
What is the reason for getting skin tags? Are skin tags hormonal? Skin friction : As per American Association of Dermatology, skin friction is considered as one of the most common reasons for getting skin tags 1 . Thus the most common areas for getting the tags are below the breasts, under arms, groins and neck creases. Skin tags on eyelid should not be confused by Xanthelasma which is deposition fatty deposits composed of cholesterol rather than epithelial tissue of skin tagsObesity and overweight : Obesity can increase bulk of body parts causing higher friction. Hence obese and overweight people have higher risk of developing skin tags 2 .Diabetes and metabolic syndrome : People with diabetes are at a higher risk for skin tags development. Diabetes can lead to increased insulin production to combat increased blood sugar levels. Insulin is a growth factor that can lead to tissue growth. Other metabolic conditions like dyslipidemia (high cholesterol and lower HDL) can also trigger skin tags. Metabolic syndrome can lead to a higher inflammatory tissue environment triggering skin tag formation 3 . Hormonal changes : Similar to metabolic syndrome mechanism, other hormonal changes states like during pregnancy, can increase chances of skin tag formationHuman papillomavirus (HPV) : Certain kinds of HPV have been related to skin tags
How to avoid Skin Tags? Can you avoid skin tags from growing or increasing in number? How to prevent skin tags? Reducing skin friction is the easiest and most important way to avoid tags. Wear loose breathable and comfortable clothes. Maintain a healthy weight : That also reduces friction that prevents heavy body parts rubbing against each otherManage metabolic conditions : If you are diagnosed with diabetes or dyslipidemia ensure that your sugar and cholesterol levels are in control.
Do skin tags spread? This is the main difference between warts and skin tags. While warts (e.g. genital warts ) can spread and are mainly caused due to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), skin tags are not contagious. Having one skin tag does not mean more will necessarily appear in the same area or spread to other areas of the body. Unlike warts, skin tags are benign growths that are not caused by a virus like warts. They are simply an excess of collagen and blood vessels trapped in thickened skin. Each skin tag develops independently, even if you have more skin tags.
Do skin tags have roots? While skin tags do have a stalk that attaches them to the skin, it typically does not have roots that attach them to any deeper structures.
What is inside of a skin tag? Skin tags consist of loose collagen fibers and blood vessels surrounded by skin epithelium. Unlike moles , skin tags do not have a "root" structure and are not attached to deeper tissues.
Can skin tags become cancerous? Skin tags are not cancerous growths and cannot become cancerous 1 . However, it is important to differentiate skin tags from potential skin cancers. Please note that skin cancers are relatively uncommon as compared to western countries, thanks to our dark complexion where melanin protects our skins. If a skin tag changes color, shape, or size, or if you have any concerns, it is recommended to consult with a doctor for an evaluation
Although skin cancers are rare in India, here are some differences associated with skin cancer versus skin tags:
Skin Tags:
Size & appearance : Skin tags are typically small, ranging from a few millimeters to a centimeter in size. Skin tags are soft, small, and flesh-colored flaps of skin hanging off the surface.Attachment to the Skin : Attached to the skin by a thin stalk or peduncle, giving them a distinctive hanging appearanceChanges Over Time : typically remain stable over time and do not exhibit rapid changesTexture : Have a smooth and soft texturePain and Itching: Generally painless and do not cause itching Skin Cancer:
Size & appearance : skin cancer growths can vary widely in size and often present as larger, irregularly shaped lesionsAttachment to the Skin : Tends to spread across the skin surface, lacking the distinct stalk seen in skin tagsChanges Over Time : Undergoes rapid changes in size, shape, or color over a short periodTexture : May exhibit irregular borders, asymmetry, and a changing texture, which can include areas that feel rough or scalyPain and Itching : May be accompanied by pain, tenderness, or itching, especially if they become ulcerated or irritated