Skin Tag
Also known as: Acrochordon, Fibroepithelial Polyp
Small, soft, hanging pieces of skin. Extremely common in skin folds - completely harmless.
What to look for
Side-by-side comparison
Normal skin fold
Smooth skin
Skin tag
Soft hanging growth, harmless
Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths that hang from the skin by a thin stalk (peduncle). They are one of the most common skin growths, affecting an estimated 25% of adults at some point.
They develop primarily in areas of skin friction: neck, armpits, groin, under breasts, and eyelids. They range from 1mm to several centimeters, though most are small (2-5mm).
Skin tags are entirely benign and have no malignant potential. They are associated with obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, pregnancy (hormonal changes), and aging. Multiple skin tags may warrant screening for metabolic syndrome.
No treatment is necessary unless they cause irritation, catch on jewelry or clothing, or are cosmetically bothersome. Removal methods include snip excision, cryotherapy, and electrocautery - all quick outpatient procedures.
Quick self-check
Does this look like skin tag? Answer 2 questions.
Is it a small, soft growth hanging from the skin by a thin stalk?
Is it in an area of skin friction (neck, armpit, groin)?
Risk factors
- Obesity and overweight
- Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Age (increase with aging)
- Friction from skin folds, clothing, or jewelry
When to see a dermatologist
- ⚠Only if skin tags are irritated, painful, or cosmetically bothersome
- ⚠If a supposed skin tag is changing color, bleeding, or growing rapidly
- ⚠Multiple new skin tags (consider metabolic screening)
Often confused with
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Full ABCDE check →Frequently asked questions
Are skin tags a sign of diabetes?
Multiple skin tags can be associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. If you have many skin tags, it may be worth having your blood sugar and metabolic markers checked - but skin tags alone do not diagnose diabetes.
Can I tie off a skin tag myself?
While some people tie off small skin tags with thread, this carries infection risk. Professional removal by a dermatologist is quick, safe, and inexpensive.