Pink skin tags can appear at any time throughout life, but they generally develop with age. Other names for skin tags include acrochordons, soft fibromas, fibroepithelial polyps, papillomas, pedunculated and filiform, according to DermNet NZ. In most cases, the name used describes the shape of skin tag in question. For example, pedunculated skin tags are attached to a stalk.
Appearance
Skin tags generally appear pink or fleshy in color. They are soft skin growths that can occur anywhere on the body. They most commonly appear along folds of skin such as the skin of the neck and armpit, according to MedlinePlus. Size and shape varies among skin tags. They can range in size from very small to ½ in. in length. They may be attached to the skin by a stalk, lay close to the skin or appear irregular in shape.
Causes
Skin tags form as the result of an accumulation of blood-supplied collagen fibers. They are caused by chafing, high levels of growth factors, resistance to insulin and the human papilloma virus. The obese and those with Type 2 diabetes often have more skin tags than those without these two contributing factors.
Considerations
Although common and harmless, skin tags frequently catch on clothing or become irritated by movement. Skin tags in visible areas may also cause distress because of cosmetic reasons. Skin tags on the neck can become tangled in jewelry and may even pose a hazard during grooming rituals such as shaving. Ripping or tearing a skin tag may cause bleeding or lead to infection.
Warning
Medical attention is usually not necessary unless you wish to have the skin tag removed. However, changes in the skin tag could indicate malignancy. Seek medical attention if you observe a change in size, shape or color, or if your skin tag starts to crust and bleed.
Removal
Once removed, skin tags normally do not grow back, according to MedlinePlus. Removal takes place in a doctor’s office setting. Removal methods include snipping, freezing and burning. The procedures cause little pain, and a numbing medication is used in most cases.
