What Causes Skin Tags?

At Mullally Sports and Family Medicine, we often see patients with concerns about skin tags—small, soft, benign growths that can develop on various parts of the body. Skin tags are small, benign growths that typically form in areas where skin experiences friction or pressure. They commonly appear on areas like the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids. While the exact cause is not fully understood, skin tags are generally harmless but can be removed if they cause irritation or discomfort.

• Friction: Skin rubbing against skin or clothing, especially in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin.

• Genetics: Skin tags tend to run in families, suggesting a hereditary component.

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, can increase skin tag formation.

• Obesity: Excess skin folds from weight gain create more friction, leading to the development of skin tags.

• Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome: Individuals with these conditions may have a higher risk of developing skin tags.

If you have skin tags that are causing discomfort or if you’re concerned about their appearance, our team at Mullally Sports and Family Medicine is here to help. We offer professional evaluation and removal options to ensure your skin health and comfort.

Skin tags tend to appear more frequently with age, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. As people get older, the skin becomes more prone to developing these growths due to changes in skin elasticity, increased friction in certain areas, and other age-related factors. Skin tags are more common in areas where skin naturally folds or rubs together, such as the neck, armpits, and groin.

While age is a significant factor in the development of skin tags, other factors such as genetics, obesity, and certain medical conditions can also contribute to their formation. If you notice a sudden increase in skin tags or changes in their appearance, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an evaluation and to discuss possible treatment options.

If you notice new skin growths or have questions about changes in your skin, the providers at Mullally Sports and Family Medicine are here to help you maintain healthy skin at every stage of life.

At Mullally Sports and Family Medicine, we frequently see patients with concerns about skin tags, also known as acrochordons. Skin tags are growths that can form on almost any part of the body, particularly in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. They are most commonly found on the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin area, and beneath the breasts. These areas tend to experience friction, which is one of the key factors that contribute to the formation of skin tags. In some cases, skin tags can also appear around the folds of the skin or where clothing or jewelry may constantly irritate the skin.

Although skin tags are generally harmless, they can become irritated or uncomfortable, especially if they are located in spots that experience frequent rubbing or pressure. If you notice any skin tags that are growing, changing in appearance, or causing discomfort, it is important to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can evaluate the skin tags and provide treatment options, ensuring your skin health is properly managed.

At Mullally Sports and Family Medicine, we can help with the diagnosis and treatment of skin tags. Our skilled team offers a thorough evaluation to confirm the condition and discusses safe and effective treatment options, including removal if necessary for comfort or cosmetic reasons. Your skin health is our priority.

At Mullally Sports and Family Medicine, we frequently see patients with concerns about skin growths such as skin tags, moles, and warts. Understanding the differences among these common skin changes can help you know when to seek medical advice and what treatment options are available.

Skin tags, moles, and warts are all types of growths that appear on the skin, but they differ in their causes and characteristics. Skin tags are benign, soft growths that typically form in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. These growths are made of collagen fibers, blood vessels, and skin cells. Moles, on the other hand, are pigmented spots or growths on the skin that occur when skin cells called melanocytes grow in clusters. Warts are caused by a viral infection (HPV), leading to the growth of rough, hardened skin in affected areas like hands, feet, or genital regions.

While these skin growths may appear similar, they do not directly relate to one another in terms of origin. Skin tags are not contagious like warts, and unlike moles, they do not involve pigment changes in the skin. However, individuals with a tendency to develop one type of growth may be more likely to experience other types due to genetic factors or other underlying conditions such as hormonal changes or a weakened immune system. It’s always a good idea to have any unusual or growing skin growths examined by a healthcare provider to ensure proper diagnosis and care.

At Mullally Sports and Family Medicine, we are here to evaluate, diagnose, and treat any skin growths, including skin tags, moles, warts, or other changes. Your skin health is our priority, and we’re dedicated to providing you with peace of mind. Contact us or schedule an appointment today for expert care! We are conveniently located at 11275 Delaware Pkwy Suite A, Crown Point, IN 46307. We serve clients from Crown Point IN, Winfield IN, Schererville IN, St. John IN, Cedar Lake IN, Munster IN, Lowell IN, DeMotte IN, as well as other Northwest Indiana locations.