Skin Tag

A skin tag, medically known as acrochordon, is a small, benign flap of flesh-colored tissue that hangs off the skin by a small, narrow connecting stalk. They are most often found where skin forms creases and rubs against skin, such as under the armpits, under the breasts, on the groin area, or on the neck and back. Skin tags can be up to half an inch long, though most are about the size of a grain of rice. They do not grow or change over time. Skin tags affect about 46% of the population, and are most commonly found in people who are overweight, have diabetes, and women who are pregnant.

Skin tag Facts:

  • Skin tags are very common small, soft skin growths.
  • Skin tags are harmless but can be annoying.
  • Skin tags tend to occur on the eyelids, neck, armpits, groin folds, and under breasts.
  • A person may have anywhere from one to hundreds of skin tags.
  • Almost everyone will develop a skin tag at some point in their lives.
  • Middle-aged, obese adults are most prone to skin tags.
  • Obesity is associated with skin tags.
  • Removing a skin tag does not cause more to grow.
  • Destructive treatments include freezing, tying off with a thread or suture, or cutting off the skin tag.

Treatment:

Because skin tags are completely harmless and painless, treatment is not necessary unless for cosmetic purposes, or if they become an irritated by clothing, jewelry, or when shaving. If you desire treatment for your skin tags, Dr. Jay can perform several procedures. One option is to remove the skin tag by cutting it off with a scalpel. It can also be frozen off with liquid nitrogen, or burned off using electrosurgery, a way to burn the tag with an electric current. Treatment can be performed in Dr. Jay‘s office, and is generally painless. Because skin tags are considers cosmetic by insurance companies, we do NOT bill for this procedure and is payable at the time of service.

Contact Us

At South Bay Dermatology, we encourage you to contact us whenever you have a concern or question related to your care.

You can reach us at:
Phone Number: (310) 257-1988
Fax: (310) 257-1897

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