Sun tags on skin: what to know

A skin tag is usually a soft, flesh-coloured or slightly darker piece of skin that hangs from a narrow base. It often appears where skin rubs, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, or groin. A sun spot is generally a flat area of extra pigment on exposed skin, so it is not the same thing as a tag. A rough or scaly growth may also be mistaken for either one. A clinician checks the surface and attachment before choosing treatment.

Do not tie off, cut, burn, or freeze a growth yourself. This can cause bleeding, infection, scarring, or confusion about what was removed. If a true skin tag catches on jewellery or clothing, a dermatologist may discuss skin tag removal, electrosurgery, or cryotherapy. The method depends on size, location, attachment, and whether the diagnosis is clear.

Have a growth checked if it grows quickly, changes colour, becomes painful, bleeds without clear friction, forms a persistent crust, or does not resemble your other skin tags. Arrange care before cosmetic removal when the diagnosis is uncertain. A changing lesion should be examined rather than repeatedly treated at home.

Is this a skin tag, a sun spot, or another growth? Does it need testing? Which removal method fits its location? What wound care should I use, and could removal leave a mark?