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Skin tags are small, harmless growths on the skin that typically appear in areas prone to friction, such as the neck, groin, armpits, or eyelids. While they can't be entirely prevented and their exact cause is uncertain, there are steps you can take to reduce their likelihood.
Actions
Modifying Your Lifestyle
Reduce skin friction. Although the precise cause of skin tags is unclear, they often develop in areas where skin rubs against itself. To minimize this, opt for breathable clothing that provides cushioning in friction-prone areas like the groin and armpits. Using clothing to create a barrier between skin layers can help decrease friction and potential skin tag formation.
- However, certain areas like the outer eyelids may be difficult to protect from friction.
Reduce excess weight to minimize skin folds. Excess weight can increase the likelihood of skin tags due to the presence of more skin folds, leading to increased friction. To reduce the risk of skin tags, consider losing weight through a combination of healthy eating and regular exercise.
- Various weight loss methods exist, including adopting a healthy diet and increasing physical activity.
- If you're unsure about the best approach, consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Avoid diabetes to lower the risk of skin tags. Diabetes can elevate insulin levels, increasing the likelihood of developing skin tags. Preventing diabetes involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
- If you're at risk of diabetes, taking proactive steps such as dietary changes and increased physical activity is crucial.
Factors Contributing to Risk
Expect an increase in skin tags with age. Aging skin is more prone to skin tags, particularly in areas prone to friction. While this is a natural part of aging, it doesn't impact overall skin health.
- However, skin tag development typically decreases in women after age 50.
Be vigilant for skin tags during pregnancy. Pregnancy alters body shape and can result in increased skin-to-skin contact, along with hormonal changes that contribute to skin tag formation.
- Following pregnancy, skin tags persist and can only be removed through surgical methods.
Investigate if skin tags run in your family. Some research suggests that skin tags may have a genetic component. To gauge your likelihood of developing skin tags, inquire with your parents or other relatives about their history with skin tags. While familial predisposition doesn't guarantee you'll get them, it increases the likelihood.
- Having relatives with skin tags doesn't guarantee you'll have them, but it does elevate the chances.
Consult a dermatologist regarding skin tags. If skin tags concern you, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide insights into the latest treatments and preventive measures.
Spotting, Treating, and Eliminating
Spot small skin growths. Skin tags manifest as abnormal growths on the skin, typically matching your skin tone. While usually tiny, they can grow up to 1 centimeter (0.39 inches) in diameter.
- When irritated, skin tags may turn pink or red, especially if subjected to repetitive clothing friction.
Evaluate pain associated with growths. Skin tags are generally painless unless aggravated by rubbing or irritation, often caused by jewelry or clothing. Painful growths could indicate other issues like cysts or skin cancer, warranting medical attention.
- Pain, bleeding, or roughness in a growth should prompt evaluation by a doctor, either a primary care physician or dermatologist, to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Seek professional evaluation for any skin irregularities. Although skin tags are generally harmless, it's wise to have any changes in your skin examined by a doctor or dermatologist. During your annual check-up, inform your doctor of any skin changes for evaluation. They can determine if a growth is a skin tag and if treatment is necessary.
- If diagnosis isn't straightforward, your doctor may conduct a biopsy, examining the cells under a microscope.
Consider removing skin tags if desired. While harmless, you may opt to remove a skin tag for aesthetic or comfort reasons. Discuss removal options with your doctor if the tag causes irritation or displeasure in appearance.
- Skin tags can be removed through incision or freezing with liquid nitrogen.
- Medical insurance may cover removal if it causes discomfort rather than for cosmetic reasons.
