Why are skin tags forming?

Skin tags are soft, benign growths that may project from the skin on a small stalk or sit on a broader base. Friction is common around the neck, underarms, eyelids, waistline, and groin. They may be more noticeable after gradual skin changes, but a new growth cannot be identified reliably from a description alone.

Several small growths appearing together, a tag that becomes irritated, or a lesion that feels unlike your other tags is a reason to have the area checked. A skin tag is not the same as a wart, mole, cyst, or other growth, and treatment depends on the diagnosis.

Reduce rubbing with well-fitting, breathable clothing and avoid repeatedly scratching or pulling the area. Keep the skin gently clean and dry, especially in folds. Do not use thread, scissors, or strong acids to remove a tag; these methods can injure nearby skin and introduce infection.

If a tag catches during dressing, shaving, exercise, or jewellery use, a clinician can discuss Skin Tag Removal. Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal) and Electrosurgery are other possible approaches, depending on the size, attachment, and site.

Book an assessment for a growth that forms quickly, changes colour or outline, becomes hard, repeatedly bleeds, crusts, or remains sore after friction stops. Seek prompt care if the surrounding skin becomes hot, swollen, increasingly red, or drains pus.

What features show that this is a skin tag? Could friction be aggravating this location? Should I monitor it, and which removal option would limit irritation or scarring for my skin?