A skin tag (acrochordon) is a small, soft piece of flesh-colored or dark tissue that is attached to the surface of the skin by a connecting "stalk." Most skin tags develop over time, although some people are born with them. They can develop where clothing rubs against skin, or the skin rubs against itself. Skin tags typically affect people who are overweight, have diabetes, or are older than 40.
Although they are almost always benign, and do not cause problems unless they are continuously irritated, many people choose to have them removed for precautionary or cosmetic purposes. Skin tags can itch and, because they can get caught in zippers, clothes or jewelry, sometimes bleed. They are not contagious.
Your provider at AllPhases Dermatology will tailor your treatment to you – typically, insurance companies consider skin-tag removal to be cosmetic, and do not reimburse for the cost. Potential treatments include:
- Freezing with liquid nitrogen
- Excision with scissors