Are Skin Tags Dangerous?

For many individuals, they are aware of those skin tags that are often in the folds of skin such as eyelids, armpits, and groin area, are not really dangerous. For others, especially those who may have just discovered them, they may be concerned. The question is, are skin tags dangerous?

If you're concerned about skin tags, have a conversation with your physician. Show them where they are and make sure that they are not something that is going to turn into a problem down the road. In reality, most skin tags are benign and will never be a problem, while others, especially those that are in areas that can become irritated can be dangerous but not usually cancerous.

These small skin tags come from a root stalk of cells, that grows out of the skin, versus a flat mole type group of cells. They can become quite large, but aren't usually seen larger than a golf ball, removal is usually quick and easy, and may or may not contain an anesthetic. Of course, it's all according to the size of the skin tag, where it's located, and what your preferences are.

While most skin tags are benign, you should alert your physician. You can then discuss removal procedures, and even whether you want take the time to remove it. Because they are not normally cancerous, and if they're not in an area that is easily irritated, it is considered a cosmetic surgery. This means that it may or may not be covered by your health insurance.

These benign skin tags can show up anywhere from the time you were born, to 60 years of age or older. And many people find that during middle age they seem more of them appear. The ones that are on the eyelids or on the face are often the most uncomfortable, and then there are those that hit in underwear elastic areas, these also can be uncomfortable and become irritated.

There are plenty of ways that you can remove skin tags easily and quickly. In fact, according to the size, you may be able to use a pair of toenail or fingernail clippers that have been sterilized. You may feel a slight pinch when you remove the skin tag, if you think it's going to bleed, make sure you check with your physician before you do this. Then there is cauterization, cryosurgery, ligation, and excision all done by your physician with or without anesthetic.

So the question of whether skin tags are dangerous or not, really depends on the skin tag and where it's located. Make sure that you alert your physician any time that you notice a skin tag growing in an irritating area, and then between the two of you can decide whether it needs to be removed.