Benign Growths & Cysts
Skin Tags
Acrochordons
Very common, increasing with age
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Harmless; removable if bothersome
What Is It?
Skin tags are small, soft, harmless growths that hang from the skin by a thin stalk. They commonly appear in areas where skin rubs together — the neck, armpits, eyelids, and groin. They are benign and only need treatment if they're irritated or you'd like them removed.
Signs & Symptoms
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Small, soft, skin-colored or brown growths
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Hang from a thin stalk
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Common on neck, armpits, eyelids, and groin
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Usually painless unless caught or twisted
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May become irritated by jewelry or clothing
Why Does It Happen?
Skin tags are thought to form where skin rubs against skin or clothing, so they're more common in body folds, with weight gain, in pregnancy, and with age. They may run in families and are more common in people with diabetes. They are completely benign — NOT cancerous and NOT contagious.
Treatment Options
Skin tags are harmless and need no treatment. Removal is simple and usually for comfort or cosmetic reasons.
LEAVE IT ALONE
The usual choice — they are benign and harmless.
SNIP REMOVAL
A quick clip with sterile scissors in the office.
CRYOTHERAPY
Freezing the tag so it falls off.
ELECTROCAUTERY
Burning off the tag with a small device.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Don't try to cut or tie off tags yourself (bleeding/infection risk)
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Reduce friction from jewelry or tight clothing if they catch
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Note any tag that grows, bleeds, or changes color
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Removal is optional and mostly cosmetic
When to Call Your Provider
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A growth grows, bleeds, darkens, or changes
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A tag becomes painful, twisted, or irritated
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You're unsure whether a bump is a skin tag
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You'd like tags removed
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Skin Tags. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/skin-tags
DermNet. Skin Tags (Acrochordons). https://dermnetnz.org/topics/skin-tag
Cleveland Clinic. Skin Tags. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21528-skin-tag-acrochordon
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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