Skin tags are a common and usually harmless skin condition that many people experience at some point in their lives.
These small, soft, benign growths often appear as tiny flaps of tissue hanging off the skin’s surface. While they are generally painless and not a cause for concern, many individuals seek ways to clear them for cosmetic reasons or if they become irritated due to friction or clothing.
CAUSES OF SKIN TAGS
The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development. These include:
- FRICTION:
Skin-on-skin or skin-on-clothing friction in areas where the skin folds or rubs together can lead to the formation of skin tags. This is why they are often found in areas such as the neck, underarms, groin, and eyelids.
- GENETICS:
There appears to be a genetic predisposition to developing skin tags. If your parents or other family members have had skin tags, you might be more likely to develop them as well.
- HORMONAL CHANGES:
Pregnant women and individuals with certain hormonal imbalances, such as those with diabetes or obesity, may be more prone to developing skin tags.
- AGING:
Skin tags become more common as people age. They tend to occur in middle-aged and older individuals.
CLEARING SKIN TAGS
While skin tags are generally harmless and do not require treatment, some people choose to have them removed for aesthetic reasons or if they become bothersome. There are several methods for clearing skin tags, ranging from medical procedures to home remedies:
- MEDICAL PROCEDURES:
- CAUTERIZATION: This involves burning off the skin tag using heat.
- CRYOTHERAPY: The skin tag is frozen off using liquid nitrogen.
- LIGATION: Tying off the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply, causing it to eventually fall off.
- SURGICAL REMOVAL: A doctor can surgically cut off the skin tag using sterile instruments.
- HOME REMEDIES:
- TEA TREE OIL: Applying diluted tea tree oil to the skin tag over time may cause it to shrink and eventually fall off.
- APPLE CIDER VINEGAR: Some people use apple cider vinegar to gradually dissolve the skin tag.
- DENTAL FLOSS OR THREAD: Tying off the base of the skin tag with dental floss or thread may cause it to detach due to lack of blood flow.
It’s important to note that attempting to remove skin tags at home carries some risks, such as infection or scarring. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult a dermatologist before attempting any DIY methods.
PREVENTING SKIN TAGS
While it’s not always possible to prevent skin tags, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing them:
- Maintain a healthy weight to minimize skin folds and friction.
- Avoid tight clothing that can cause rubbing in sensitive areas.
- Practice good hygiene to prevent irritation and infection.
- If you have diabetes, work to manage your blood sugar levels.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, skin tags are common skin growths that typically pose no medical concern.
However, if you wish to clear them, various medical procedures and home remedies are available. Before attempting any removal methods, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Remember that while clearing skin tags can be a cosmetic choice, embracing the natural diversity of your skin is also a wonderful option.
With our little advice and consultation, you are well on your way to having the perfect skin you’ve always wanted. Complete our contact form to be connected with a certified specialist now DIANA LILY SIGN UP
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