Skin tags are common, small, benign skin growths composed of collagen and blood vessels, often appearing where skin rubs against itself. While generally harmless, they can occasionally bleed if irritated or injured. This bleeding is usually manageable with home care.
Immediate Actions to Stop Bleeding
To stop a bleeding skin tag, begin by gently cleaning the affected area with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleansers like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can impede healing. After cleaning, apply firm, continuous pressure directly to the skin tag using a clean cloth or gauze. Maintain this steady pressure for at least 5 to 10 minutes, and ideally 10 to 15 minutes, to allow a clot to form and stop the bleeding.
If the skin tag is located on a limb, elevating the affected area slightly above the heart can help reduce blood flow to the site. Once the bleeding has completely stopped, protect the area by covering it with a clean, adhesive bandage. This helps keep the wound clean and prevents further irritation. You may apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly before covering with a non-stick bandage.
Continue to monitor the area for any signs of renewed bleeding or the development of infection in the hours and days following the incident. Protecting the skin tag from further irritation, such as by wearing loose clothing or avoiding jewelry that might snag it, can also help prevent recurrence of bleeding.
Common Reasons for Bleeding
Skin tags contain small blood vessels, making them susceptible to bleeding if they experience trauma or irritation. One common cause of bleeding is friction, which occurs when the skin tag repeatedly rubs against clothing, jewelry, or other skin folds. This constant rubbing can abrade the delicate surface of the growth.
Another frequent reason for bleeding is snagging or catching the skin tag on external objects. Activities like dressing, toweling off, or even shaving can inadvertently pull or tear the skin tag, leading to a sudden onset of bleeding. Accidental or intentional manipulation, such as picking or scratching, can also injure the skin tag and cause it to bleed.
In some cases, if a skin tag has a narrow stalk, it can twist on its peduncle. This twisting can disrupt its blood supply, leading to pain and potentially causing the skin tag to bleed.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While most instances of a bleeding skin tag are manageable at home, certain situations warrant consulting a healthcare professional. Seek medical attention if the bleeding does not stop after 10 to 15 minutes of continuous, direct pressure. Persistent bleeding can indicate a more significant issue requiring professional assessment.
It is important to watch for signs of infection around the skin tag, which include increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or escalating pain. These symptoms suggest a potential bacterial infection that may require antibiotics or other medical intervention. Additionally, if the skin tag becomes unusually painful, tender, or inflamed without a clear reason, a medical evaluation is advisable.
Any changes in the skin tag’s appearance, such as rapid growth, changes in color (especially turning very dark, red, or purple), or irregular borders, should prompt a visit to a doctor. These changes, while often benign, can sometimes mimic other skin conditions, including more serious growths.
If there is any uncertainty about whether a growth is a skin tag or if it bleeds frequently, professional confirmation and guidance are recommended. A healthcare provider can offer safe removal options if the skin tag is a nuisance or for cosmetic reasons.