What should you know about skin tag turned white?

A skin tag can look pale or white when its surface is dry, rubbed or covered by a crust. If the stalk twists, blood flow through the growth may be reduced and it may become pale, darker or sore. A product applied to the skin can also cause a light coating or irritation. Colour alone cannot confirm the cause, and a white spot that is flat, scaly, firm or spreading may not be a skin tag at all.

Do not peel, squeeze, cut or tie the growth. Gently wash the area, stop any new product that may be irritating it, and reduce rubbing from clothing or jewellery. Take a clear photograph for comparison if the appearance changes. A clinician can decide whether observation is suitable or discuss [Skin Tag Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-tag-removal/). Removal methods may include [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/) or [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/), depending on the examination.

Arrange an assessment when whitening is new and unexplained, persists, or occurs with pain, swelling, bleeding, crusting or an open sore. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus or fever, especially after the area was pulled or treated at home. A clinician should also review a lesion that keeps changing or does not resemble your other skin tags.

Ask what may have changed the colour, whether twisting or irritation is present, whether the lesion needs removal or observation, and how to care for the skin if it becomes sore.