Skin tags are skin growths that are small, benign, and exist in the epidermis. They are more common in regions where skin folds including the back of the neck, under the arms, groin, and under the breast skin. Skin tags are benign, however individuals can decide to remove them for aesthetic inclinations or when they turn out to be bothersome.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are small skin growths, grayish and brown in color and developed at the base of a stalk. They are formed of a fine network of collagen fibers and blood vessels and they are skin covered. Skin tags can be of small size and may also be of some millimeter diameter or it may reach up to some centimeter diameter. These are not malignant; they don’t often cause any problem and do not cause any pain unless they are touched by hard clothing, jewelry or shaver.
Causes of Skin Tags
The exact cause of skin tags is not entirely understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development:
1. Friction
Skin tags develop usually in areas of skin foldage or places where they are usually in contact with clothings, these include; the neck, the under arms and the genital area.
2. Genetics
It is not clear whether skin tags are inherited; however, many people complain of getting the growths in their families.
3. Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy is another strong predisposing factor for the development of skin tags since hormonal levels periodically change in women.
4. Age
However, skin tags are noticed mostly in intermediate aged and elderly persons.
5. Obesity
There is danger of getting skin tags from areas that are stretchy since it leads to skin rubbing against skin in overweight people.
Skin tags are small growths on the skin that can be harmless, but can also cause discomfort if they are irritated or if they grow in large numbers, but here are ways on how you can remove skin tags.
In the event that you want to get your skin tag removed, the following are the procedures that you can undertake and they are further categorized depending on the level of complexity involved. In case of large, multiple or acute skin tags, one ought to talk to his or her Skin Specialist in Karachi before attempting to shave them off.
1. Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy entails the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag. This procedure is done in a health care facility by a qualified personnel. The tissue dies, and the skin tag falls off within a few days due to freezing procedures that are applied in such conditions.
2. Ligation
Ligation entails placing a small dental floss or thread around the base of a skin tag and then tightening it to deprive the growth of blood. In a few days, the skin tag will be dead, and all that one will be required to do is to peel it off. This method is appropriate when the skin tags are small.
3. Excision
Excision entails surgically removing skin tag by using a sharp and sterile blade or scissor. This procedure should ideally be done by a healthcare provider to reduce infections and adnexal cysts overstitching.
4. Cauterization
Cauterization employs heat to eliminate the skin tag by burning the skin. This method is usually carried out by a healthcare provider and involves ablation in which an electric current or laser is used to get rid of the growth.
5. Over-the-Counter Treatments
There are creams which can be found at your local store and these creams work by employing elements such as salicylic acid to provide a skin tags’ disintegration treatment. Use of such products must be done with a lot of care and strictly to the instructions given by the manufactures.
6. Natural Remedies
There are instances where different products like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar are being used for the removal of skin tags. These remedies entail applying the substance on the skin tag for a few consecutive days for the tag to die off. These methods have been said to work for some people; the results, however, have not been scientifically researched.
Conclusion
Skin tags are relatively frequent benign neoplasms which do not pose any risk and, if necessary, can be treated and eliminated. The techniques of its removal also exist in many types, starting from the methods which can be done at home, to the doctor prescribed ones. However, it is always wise to seek medical advice from a Best Dermatologist in Islamabad on the best approach and treatment and maybe the safe ways of getting rid of skin tags.