Skin tags are miniature bag-like skin growths that tend to appear on parts of the body that have folds in the skin. This would include places like the eyelids, neck, groin area, derriere, and armpits, but they can form just about anywhere.

Different skin tags have different names that are hard to pronounce and include acrochordon, cutaneous papilloma, and soft fibroma versions. Skin tags may have a genetic component, but it is obvious that tags generally occur where the skin rubs against itself or adjacent clothing.

Risk factors and interesting anomalies for skin tag formation include the following:

• Skin tags are usually quite small and only a quarter inch or less in size, but they can reach to enormous proportions. Think fig. That’s huge.
• Skin tags are one of the most common growths to occur on the skin.
• Skin tags are most often harmless and don’t even require any treatment unless they are an eyesore.
• They occur more often in middle age.
• Pregnancy may contribute to an increase in skin tag development due to all the hormones that run amok.
• Some people have hundreds of skin tags and are doing just fine.
• Overweight individuals are more likely to have skin tags.

Some methods used to remove skin tags include the following:

• Freezing
• Snipping
• Strangulating
• Burning

These procedures will be performed with the assistance of your board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Juan Vaillant of Old Bridge Dermatology has been treating patients for hair, skin, and nail problems for over 30 years, and has the extensive background needed to help address a variety of dermatological issues. Dr. Vaillant has successfully treated acne, eczema, dandruff, hair loss, psoriasis, and nail fungus. If you are looking for an amiable, highly skilled dermatologist, call our office in Old Bridge, NJ at (732) 679-0222 and make an appointment.