Skin tags tend to show up quietly. One day they’re not there, and the next day you notice a small growth that catches on clothing or jewelry and makes you stop and look twice.
They’re very common and almost always harmless, but that doesn’t mean they’re easy to ignore. Many people choose to have skin tags evaluated or removed simply because they’re irritating or in an inconvenient spot.
Benign skin growth (non-cancerous)
Neck, underarms, chest, eyelids, groin, under breasts
Quick, comfortable removal of bothersome growths
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags (medical term: acrochordon) are small, benign growths that develop on the surface of the skin. They are soft bumps that are usually connected to the skin by a small stalk.
How they look:
Common locations include:
Skin tags commonly form in areas where skin rubs together or where clothing causes friction. A person may have one skin tag or develop several over time.
Why Skin Tags Develop
The exact cause of skin tags isn’t fully understood, but several factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing them.
Friction — Skin tags are thought to develop from friction, such as where clothes rub on the skin or there is skin-to-skin contact. This is why they commonly appear in folds and creases.
Age — Skin tags tend to develop more frequently in individuals over the age of 50.
Weight — They are more common in individuals who carry extra weight, likely due to increased skin friction.
Genetics — There may be a genetic component to developing skin tags. If family members have them, you may be more likely to develop them as well.
Hormonal changes — Fluctuations in hormones, including during pregnancy, can contribute to skin tag development.
Skin tags are not contagious and are not caused by poor hygiene. While they are always benign, any new or changing skin growth should be evaluated to confirm the diagnosis.
How Skin Tags Can Affect Daily Comfort
Skin tags don’t pose a health risk, but they can still be bothersome in everyday life.
Patients often mention that skin tags:
When skin tags affect how your skin feels or looks, it’s reasonable to explore treatment options. Removal is straightforward and can provide immediate relief.
What to Expect During a Consultation
A consultation at Lazaderm is focused on clarity and reassurance.
During your visit, your provider will:
If treatment is appropriate, the process and aftercare will be explained clearly so you know what to expect. Most skin tag removals are quick and can often be done during the same visit.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Once removed, skin tags typically do not return in the same spot. However, new skin tags can develop over time, especially in areas prone to friction.
What to expect after removal:
Your provider can also recommend ways to minimize irritation and support overall skin health moving forward.
Skin tag removal is not medically required, but it may be recommended if the growth becomes irritated or bothersome. A consultation allows your provider to confirm that the growth is a skin tag and discuss the most appropriate removal method based on size, location, and your comfort level.
Electrocautery is commonly used for skin tag removal at Lazaderm.
Ellman Surgitron Radiofrequency System — This device can either remove or cauterize the skin tag with precision and minimal trauma to surrounding tissue.
Benefits:
This method is often preferred for its accuracy and comfortable recovery.
Laser treatment offers another precise option for skin tag removal.
Sciton Erbium Laser — Can be used to remove skin tags, and works especially well on skin tags with a broader base (rather than a thin stalk).
Benefits:
Your provider will determine if laser removal is the best option based on the characteristics of your skin tag.
For some skin tags, simple surgical removal may be the most straightforward approach.
How it works: The skin tag is carefully removed using surgical instruments. Local anesthetic may be used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
When it’s used:
This is a quick, in-office procedure with minimal downtime.
Cryotherapy uses extreme cold (liquid nitrogen) to freeze and destroy the skin tag.
How it works: Liquid nitrogen is applied to the skin tag, causing it to freeze and eventually fall off.
Considerations: This method may cause some trauma to the surrounding skin and is generally less controlled than electrocautery or laser. It may be appropriate for certain situations but is not always the first choice for precise removal.
Your provider will discuss whether cryotherapy is appropriate for your specific skin tag.
If you have a skin growth that’s irritating or simply something you’d like evaluated, a professional consultation can help. At Lazaderm, consultations are designed to provide education, reassurance, and options — without pressure.
