Skin tag between bum cheeks: what to know

Skin tags, also called acrochordons, are soft pieces of tissue that may hang from a narrow base. In the cleft between the buttocks, warmth, moisture, rubbing, and pressure from sitting can make one feel tender or itchy. The appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis; a wart, inflamed cyst, haemorrhoid, or another lesion can look similar in this area.

Keep the area gently clean and dry, choose breathable underwear, and avoid picking or shaving directly over the growth. Do not tie it off with thread or cut it yourself, because bleeding, infection, and an incorrect diagnosis are possible. A dermatologist can examine it and discuss removal if it catches on clothing, becomes sore, or causes concern. Options may include clinician-performed cryotherapy, electrosurgery, or a minor removal procedure.

Arrange an appointment if the spot grows quickly, changes colour or shape, repeatedly bleeds, develops a persistent sore, or causes significant pain. Seek prompt medical care for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or bleeding that does not settle with gentle pressure. A new lump close to the anus should be assessed rather than assumed to be a skin tag.

Ask whether the lesion has the typical features of a skin tag, whether it needs testing after removal, which method suits its position, and how to care for the area while it heals.