Skin tags are a common skin condition that many people encounter.
They are small, benign growths that can appear anywhere on the body.
Despite their prevalence, the causes of skin tags are not widely understood.
This article aims to shed light on the factors that contribute to the formation of skin tags.
By understanding these causes, beauty salon owners can better serve their clients, offering effective and safe treatments for skin tag removal.
In the following sections, we will delve into the causes of skin tags, discuss their common locations, and explore professional removal methods. This knowledge will empower salon owners to enhance their service offerings and become trusted advisors on skin issues.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft growths that hang off the skin.
They are benign, meaning they are not cancerous and generally do not pose a health risk.
Skin tags are typically the same colour as your skin or slightly darker.
They can range in size from a tiny speck to as large as a grape. Despite their harmless nature, many people seek removal due to discomfort or for cosmetic reasons.
Common Locations for Skin Tags
Skin tags commonly form in areas where skin rubs against skin.
This includes the neck, armpits, and groin.
They can also appear on the eyelids or under the breasts.
Despite these common areas, skin tags can form anywhere on the body.
Why Skin Tags Are Generally Harmless
Skin tags are benign, meaning they are not cancerous.
They do not pose a threat to your health.
Most of the time, they don’t cause pain or discomfort.
However, they can be irritating if they are frequently rubbed or scratched.
Demographics: Who Gets Skin Tags?
Skin tags can appear on anyone, regardless of age or gender.
However, they are more common in adults than in children.
People who are overweight or have diabetes are also more likely to develop skin tags.
Pregnant women may notice an increase in skin tags due to hormonal changes.
The Role of Friction in Skin Tag Development
Friction plays a significant role in the development of skin tags.
Areas of the body where skin rubs against skin are more prone to skin tags.
This includes the neck, armpits, and groin.
Clothing or jewelry that rubs against the skin can also contribute to skin tag formation.
Obesity and Skin Tags: Understanding the Connection
Obesity is another factor linked to skin tags.
Individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI) often have more skin folds.
These folds can lead to increased friction, promoting skin tag development.
Thus, maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce the occurrence of skin tags.
Hormones and Skin Tags: The Pregnancy Connection
Pregnancy can also trigger the growth of skin tags.
This is due to hormonal changes that occur during this period.
Increased levels of hormones like progesterone and estrogen can stimulate skin tag formation.
However, these skin tags often disappear post-pregnancy when hormone levels normalize.
The Genetic Factor in Skin Tag Formation
Genetics can play a role in skin tag development.
If your parents or siblings have skin tags, you may be more likely to develop them.
This suggests a hereditary component to this skin condition.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the genetic factors involved.
Are Skin Tags Contagious?
Contrary to some misconceptions, skin tags are not contagious.
They cannot be spread from person to person through touch or any other form of contact.
This is because skin tags are not caused by a virus or bacteria, but rather, they are a result of skin rubbing against skin or clothing.
Identifying Skin Tags: Size, Shape, and Colour
Skin tags are typically small, measuring just a few millimetres in diameter.
They often appear as soft, skin-coloured growths that hang from the skin by a thin stalk.
However, they can vary in colour and size. Some may be darker due to hyperpigmentation, while others may grow larger over time.
Despite these variations, skin tags are generally smooth or slightly wrinkled and irregular in shape.
Differentiating Skin Tags from Other Skin Conditions
Skin tags are often mistaken for other skin conditions.
For instance, they can be confused with warts, moles, or seborrheic keratosis.
However, unlike these conditions, skin tags are usually soft, not rough, and hang from the skin.
It’s crucial to consult a skincare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Professional Removal of Skin Tags
Professional removal of skin tags is the safest and most effective method.
Skincare professionals use various techniques based on the size and location of the skin tag.
These methods include cryotherapy, cautery or electrosurgery, and cutting off with surgical scissors or a scalpel.
Each method has its benefits and potential risks.
It’s essential to discuss these with your skincare professional before proceeding.
Cryotherapy (Freeze Off)
Cryotherapy, also known as freeze off, is a common method for skin tag removal.
In this procedure, the skin tag is frozen using liquid nitrogen.
This causes the skin tag to fall off after a few days.
Cautery or Electrosurgery
Cautery or electrosurgery involves using heat to remove the skin tag.
A small probe is used to burn off the skin tag.
This method is quick and usually leaves minimal scarring.
Surgical Scissors or Scalpel (Cutting Off)
Using surgical scissors or a scalpel is another method for skin tag removal.
The skin tag is cut off at the base.
This method is often used for larger skin tags.
Risks of DIY Skin Tag Removal
DIY skin tag removal can be tempting.
However, it carries significant risks.
These include infection, scarring, and incorrect self-diagnosis.
It’s always safer to consult a professional for skin tag removal.
Aftercare and Recurrence: Post Skin Tag Removal
After professional skin tag removal, proper aftercare is crucial.
This can include keeping the area clean and applying prescribed ointments.
While skin tags can recur, it’s not common in the same spot.
Regular check-ups with a skincare professional can help manage any recurrence.
Conclusion: Consulting a Professional and Personalized Care
Understanding the causes of skin tags is the first step.
However, it’s essential to consult a professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Skincare professionals can provide personalized care, tailored to each client’s needs.
They can also offer advice on preventing skin tags and managing other skin conditions.
In conclusion, professional care and personalized treatment are key to managing skin tags effectively.