Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are common, benign (non-cancerous) growths that appear on the skin. They consist of loose collagen fibers and blood vessels, often forming in areas where skin rubs against itself. While harmless, understanding their appearance helps individuals recognize them and decide if professional evaluation is needed.
Identifying Skin Tags Visually
Skin tags are small, soft pieces of skin that hang off the body. Their shape resembles a tiny balloon or tear-drop, attached by a narrow stalk, known as a peduncle. These growths range in size from a pinhead (about 1-2 millimeters) to several millimeters, though some grow larger, rarely exceeding 1-2 centimeters.
The color of a skin tag matches the surrounding skin, flesh-colored, light brown, or darker brown. Their texture is soft, flexible, and pliable, feeling smooth or slightly wrinkled. Skin tags develop where skin folds or experiences friction, such as the neck, armpits, groin, under the breasts, and on the eyelids.
Despite these descriptive characteristics, this information is for general understanding. A definitive diagnosis comes from a healthcare professional. While visual cues are strong indicators, an in-person examination by a medical expert ensures accurate identification and appropriate advice.
Differentiating from Other Skin Growths
Distinguishing skin tags from other skin growths is important, as some conditions appear similar but have different implications. Moles, also known as nevi, are flat or slightly raised, with uniform color ranging from brown to black. Unlike skin tags, moles do not hang from a stalk and can vary in texture, sometimes even growing hair.
Warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), have a distinct rough, raised, and “cauliflower-like” surface. They are firmer than skin tags and appear on various body parts, including hands, feet, and knees. Warts are contagious, unlike non-contagious skin tags.
Seborrheic keratoses are another common benign growth often mistaken for skin tags or moles. These growths have a waxy, “stuck-on” appearance and are brown or black, with a slightly raised or scaly surface. While found in similar locations, seborrheic keratoses do not have the pendulous, stalk-like structure characteristic of skin tags.
When to Consult a Doctor
Though skin tags are harmless, seeking professional medical advice is advisable in several situations. If there is any uncertainty about whether a growth is indeed a skin tag or another type of skin condition, a doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis. This is important because some growths resembling skin tags could be more concerning.
Consulting a healthcare provider is also recommended if a skin tag changes in size, color, or shape, or if it starts to bleed, itch, or become painful. Skin tags located in areas prone to constant irritation from clothing or jewelry might also warrant a doctor’s visit for potential removal. Additionally, the sudden appearance of numerous new skin tags could indicate an underlying health condition, making medical evaluation important.