What Is the Cause of Skin Tags?
Skin tags are very common, especially in adults. They are clinically harmless but do sometimes cause cosmetic concerns and discomfort. That’s why skin tag removal has become a popular choice for those who want smoother, clearer skin.. If you are wondering what causes skin tags, you aren’t alone. Let’s discuss the causes of skin tags, risk factors, and why they form.
What are skin tags?
Skin tags, or acrochordons in medical terms, are benign growths, typically small, soft, and flesh-coloured flaps of skin. Although skin tags are not harmful, they can make you lose your confidence and can cause discomfort.
Skin tags tend to form in locations where skin rubs against skin or skin rubs against clothing, e.g.,
- Neck
- Underarms
- Eyelids
- Under breasts
- Groin area
- Inner thighs
Causes of skin tag
Some skin tag causes are:
Genetics
Genetics has a big influence on skin tag development. If your parents or siblings have skin tags, you have a greater chance of developing skin tags as well.
Friction and Skin-to-Skin Contact
The most common cause of skin tags is friction. Areas where skin is folding against itself or rubbing against another piece of skin are prime areas for tags to develop. This is why tags are often found on the armpits, groin, and neck.
Hormonal Changes
Skin tags can be triggered by hormonal changes. High levels of growth factors may be present in the body, and that could trigger the development of extra skin growths as a result.
Age-related Factors
Skin tags tend to develop with age. People over 40 are more likely to develop skin tag symptoms.
Causes of skin tag
Other skin tag reasons related to health conditions are:
Diabetes and Insulin Resistance
There’s a strong link between insulin resistance and skin tags. People suffering from Type 2 diabetes or metabolic disorders may experience more frequent formation of tags.
Obesity
Having excess body weight can increase folds in your body, leading to the formation of skin tags due to friction.
Metabolic Syndrome
High blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, and increased blood sugar are some conditions that are associated with a higher risk of developing skin tags.
Role of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Some studies suggest a possible link between certain strains of HPV and skin tags, though more research is needed for conclusive evidence.
Why Skin Tags Form?
The reason for Skin tags is nothing but the body’s response to skin changes. Skin tags are developed due to skin irritation, friction, or hormonal fluctuations. Essentially, the skin produces extra cells to reinforce an area, resulting in the formation of a tag.
Risk Factors for Developing Skin Tags
Age and Gender
It is most commonly seen after the age of 40 and slightly more common in women, especially during hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy.
Lifestyle Factors
- Wearing Tight clothing
- Poor hygiene in folds in the skin
- Physical inactivity leading to obesity
Skin tag treatment
At Reborn Skin and Hair Clinic, our best dermatologist treats all types of skin tags, caused due to any reason. The treatment options available at our Reborn skin clinic are laser skin tag removal, cryotherapy (freezing), electrosurgery (burning), or surgical excision.
