Tags…On Your Skin?

Aging can bring with it subtle changes…and some not so subtle. Among those are the little flaps of skin on your neck or under your arms. They are acquired, flesh-colored, non-cancerous growths with the scientific name of acrochordons. You may call them “skin tags” or “barnacles,” but whatever you call them, if you have them, you are not alone. Half of the U.S. population will have a skin tag at some point in their life. Obesity can also be associated with skin tags. They can vary in number from one to hundreds and men and women, alike, are equally prone to developing them. Early on, skin tags may be as small as a pin-head but some may become as large as a grape.

Skin tags are commonly found on the eyelids, at the base of the neck, in the groin area, under the arms or under the breast.

• There is no strong evidence to suggest that skin tags are contagious.
• Skin tags do not “seed” or spread if they are removed. There is no evidence that removing a skin tag will cause more tags to grow.
• Skin tags are harmless and do not have to be treated unless they are bothersome.
• Tags are typically thought to occur where skin rubs against itself or clothing.
• Elevations in hormone levels may cause an increase in skin tags, and they are more frequent in pregnant women.
• Even though their appearance is not appealing, skin tags generally cause no physical
• Some people are prone to developing skin tags and may have new growths periodically which require yearly or quarterly removal.
• Tags can be easily removed by a doctor or a dermatologist. Treatments include freezing, tying off with a suture or thread or simply cutting off the skin tag (but please…don’t try this at home).

If you have skin tags that are bothersome or irritating, Dr. Bertolino can safely and effectively remove them for you. Call to schedule an appointment, today: (716) 633-6100.