Small flaps of tissues protruding from different parts of the body through a stem such as eyes, neck, under the arms, under the breasts or any other part of the back comprise most of the skin tags. They are very common, with at least 20% of the individuals having them. However, choosing skin tag treatment as an option seems very confusing. Hence, it often leaves individuals asking for some common questions. For instance,

  • Are skin tags dangerous?
  • Should they be removed with professional help?
  • Can I prevent skin tags?
  • Are skin tags contagious?

And many other questions that give rise to misconceptions about the subject — thereby leaving individuals in a fix. They are unable to understand whether to leave the matter or consult some professional or specialist for the same. Let’s look at some of the commonly asked questions one by one.

Should I be Worried About Skin Tags?

The answer is very simple. It would be best if you do not worry about them at all. Skin tags are nothing but a combination of collagen fibers and blood vessels that hang off from the skin. However, one can classify them as tumors that serve no purpose in the body. However, they are malignant, like other cancerous counterparts. They come under the benign category. One should worry about the skin tag only if it starts growing or changes color. You should see a skin tag specialist if your skin tag starts to bleed or itch to rule out any other issue.

How Can I Get Skin Tags?

There is no single reason for developing a skin tag. However, many factors impact the presence of skin tags. For example, skin tags appear in the area of highest friction in adults above the age of 40. Other than that, obese or overweight people tend to have more skin tags. Also, diabetic patients might develop skin tags more than others. Sometimes even pregnant women tend to develop skin tags because of the fluctuating hormonal changes. But, still, no one will be able to find out the exact reason behind its presence on your body.

Also, Read: How Natural Ways Can Be Effective For Skin Tag Treatment?

What Are The Skin Tag Treatment Options Available?

Your dermatologist might pitch in slightly invasive methods to remove your skin tags. For instance, they might ask you to go for cryosurgery where they will apply liquid nitrogen to skin tags and freeze it off. They might also suggest electrocautery to burn off the skin tag through the base. Sometimes, they might even go for surgical removal of skin tags to prevent them from regrowing. If you are worried about the blemishes with these suggested methods, worry not they will leave absolutely no scars on your skin.

Can Skin Tags Spread to Other Parts of the Body?

Well, need not worry, skin tags are not contagious at all. They don’t spread like warts, even if you are in direct contact with someone with skin tags. And unlike what many individuals presume, skin tag treatment or removal does not result in forming new tags as well.

Also, Read: How To Get Rid Of Skin Tags? Possible Skin Tag Treatment Options!

Can I Prevent Skin Tags?

Well, as we already mentioned, many factors might influence the presence of skin tags. So, it isn’t very easy to prevent them. However, you can reduce your chances of having them using the following tricks or hacks. Start by living a healthier life and reducing complications such as obesity, diabetes, and others by going for a healthy diet. Or by starting different physical activities to keep your metabolism and weight in check.

Other than that, you can avoid wearing tight clothes that tend to rub against your skin more than ever as your skin will get ample breathing capacity to reduce friction situations. Also, make sure to keep your skin dry by using medicated powder. That’s how you can easily prevent them from growing.

Final Thoughts

Many DIY skin tag removal techniques are available online and individuals often confuse whether or not seeking professional help for skin tag treatment will help them better. Experts advise not to go for any self-therapy protocol before ruling out the possibility of any other medical condition. Beware of any color changes or blood clots because there are chances that some moles or carcinomas resemble as a skin tag. In case of any confusion, make sure to contact a skin tag removal clinic and get a correct diagnosis for your condition.