Skin tags are common, small, soft, benign growths that extend from the skin. They are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker, ranging from 1 to 5 millimeters, though some can grow larger. Many individuals develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime, particularly as they age. A common question arises regarding their potential association with underlying health conditions, specifically diabetes.
The Connection to Insulin Resistance
Research indicates a significant link between skin tags and insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin. When cells become less responsive, the pancreas produces higher amounts of insulin to manage blood glucose levels. This elevated insulin, known as hyperinsulinemia, is a central mechanism in skin tag formation.
Excess insulin acts as a growth-promoting hormone, stimulating the proliferation of skin cells, particularly keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Skin folds, such as those found in the armpits, neck, and groin, often have higher concentrations of insulin receptors, which helps explain why skin tags commonly form in these areas.
The number and size of skin tags can correlate with the severity of insulin resistance. Individuals with multiple skin tags, especially more than five, may have an increased risk of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Skin tags can sometimes appear years before a formal diabetes diagnosis, serving as an early indicator of metabolic dysfunction.
Other Factors Contributing to Skin Tags
While there is a connection to insulin resistance, skin tags are not exclusively a sign of diabetes. Genetics play a role, as individuals with a family history of skin tags are more likely to develop them.
Obesity is a common risk factor, often linked to metabolic changes, including insulin resistance. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy, can also promote skin tag growth. Skin tags are also more common with advancing age, with occurrence increasing after the fourth decade of life. These include high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, which are components of metabolic syndrome.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you notice a sudden increase in the number of skin tags, or if they exhibit unusual features like rapid growth, color changes, bleeding, or pain. A doctor might recommend tests to assess for insulin resistance or diabetes, such as an A1C test or fasting glucose levels.
This is particularly relevant if skin tags are accompanied by other symptoms of diabetes, which can include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, or slow-healing sores. Early detection of metabolic imbalances allows for timely management.
Management and Removal
Skin tags are generally harmless and typically do not require treatment unless they cause irritation, discomfort, or cosmetic concerns. If removal is desired, it should be performed by a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, to ensure safety and minimize potential complications.
Common removal methods include cryotherapy, which involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, or excision, where the tag is surgically cut off with a scalpel or scissors. Other techniques include cauterization, using heat to burn off the tag, or ligation, where the base of the tag is tied off to cut off its blood supply. These procedures are usually quick and performed in-office.
Addressing underlying health conditions, such as managing insulin resistance through lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and regular physical activity, can sometimes help reduce the formation of new skin tags. Existing skin tags often require professional removal if they are bothersome.