Summary about Disease
Skin tags (acrochordons) are small, soft, benign skin growths that typically appear on the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids. They are very common and usually harmless.
Symptoms
Small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths.
Appear on stalks or peduncles.
Typically painless unless irritated by rubbing or friction.
Vary in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters.
Causes
Exact cause is unknown, but friction and skin rubbing are thought to play a role.
More common in areas where skin folds occur.
Associated with insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy).
May have a genetic predisposition.
Medicine Used
No specific medicine is typically needed as skin tags are benign.
If removal is desired, options include:
Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
Surgical excision (cutting off with a scalpel)
Electrocautery (burning off with an electric current)
Ligation (tying off the base with surgical thread)
Over-the-counter wart removal products are generally not recommended as they can irritate the surrounding skin.
Is Communicable
No, skin tags are not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Maintain a healthy weight.
Manage blood sugar levels if diabetic or insulin resistant.
Avoid excessive rubbing or friction in areas prone to skin tags.
Consider loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction.
Do not attempt to remove skin tags yourself at home, as this can lead to infection or scarring.
How long does an outbreak last?
Skin tags don't "outbreak" in the same way a viral infection does. They develop gradually over time. Once formed, they typically remain until removed. New skin tags may develop over time, but this isn't an "outbreak" of existing ones.
How is it diagnosed?
Skin tags are typically diagnosed through a visual examination by a doctor or dermatologist.
A biopsy is rarely needed unless the growth has unusual characteristics that raise concern about other skin conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
Skin tags usually develop slowly and gradually.
There is no specific "timeline" as the speed of development varies from person to person.
They may start as small, barely noticeable bumps and gradually increase in size over months or years.
Important Considerations
Skin tags are generally harmless and do not require treatment unless they are causing irritation or are cosmetically undesirable.
If a skin growth changes in size, shape, or color, or if it bleeds or becomes painful, consult a doctor to rule out other skin conditions.
People with multiple skin tags, especially in association with acanthosis nigricans (dark, velvety patches of skin), should be evaluated for insulin resistance and diabetes.