Up to 60 percent of the population gets skin tags by the age of 65. The medical name for skin tags is acrochordon, and they commonly grow in areas of friction. Because of the frequent movement of the arms and rubbing of skin, skin tags often grow in the underarm area. These non-cancerous growths occur alone or in groups. Obesity, diabetes and age increase the chance of developing skin tags. Heredity also seems to play a role.
Identification
Skin tags get their name from their characteristic hanging appearance, with a stalk-like base extending from the skin. Skin tags are flesh-colored or brown and easily move back and forth when touched. Skin tags generally do not cause pain unless there's irritation, which is sometimes caused by shaving with underarm skin tags.
Treatment
A doctor can usually identify a skin tag with no need for testing, but he may biopsy a skin tag if it exhibits unusual symptoms. In most cases, skin tags pose no medical threat. You may elect to have underarm skin tags removed for cosmetic purposes or because of interference with daily tasks.
Duration
Underarm skin tags tend to occur in midlife or later. Skin tags remain permanently unless removed. In some cases, individuals have multiple underarm skin tags.
Removal
Skin tags are removed at home or in a doctor's office. Home methods of removal include tying off the skin tag with string or dental floss or snipping it off with sterilized scissors. Doctors remove skin tags by using an electrical tool , freezing them with liquid nitrogen, using a blade or snipping them with scissors. Stitches are not required. General practitioners and dermatologists can remove underarm skin tags. Some doctors advise against removing them at home.
When to Consult Your Doctor
Contact your physician if you notice skin tag changes, which may include color variation or the skin tag becoming painful. Discoloration may occur when a skin tag becomes twisted, which can also cause a blood clot to develop. Whenever you experience unusual symptoms, it is best to speak with your health care provider.
Outlook
Individuals with skin tags have an excellent prognosis. Most people experience no symptoms from them. They rarely grow back after removal, but new tags can occur in other places. Removal of skin tags does not cause noticeable scarring.
