Skin Tags

Skin Tags

Skin tags (also known as acrochordons) are common, harmless skin growths that often develop in areas where the skin rubs together. Although they are benign, many people choose to have them removed because they become irritated, catch on clothing or jewellery, or for cosmetic reasons.

At Mermaid Beach Dermatology, our Specialist Dermatologists can accurately diagnose skin tags and provide safe removal when appropriate.

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About Skin Tags

  • What are skin tags?

    Skin tags are small, soft growths that hang from the skin on a narrow stalk. They are made up of normal skin tissue and are not skin cancer.

    Most skin tags are only a few millimetres in size, although some can grow larger over time.

  • Where do skin tags occur?

    Skin tags commonly develop on the:

    • Neck

    • Armpits

    • Eyelids

    • Groin

    • Under the breasts

    • Upper chest

    They usually occur in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing.

  • What causes skin tags?

    The exact cause is unknown, but they are more common in:

    • Adults

    • People with a family history

    • Pregnancy

    • People who are overweight

    • Individuals with insulin resistance or diabetes

    They become more common with age.

  • Do skin tags need treatment?

    No. Skin tags are harmless and do not usually require treatment.

    Removal may be considered if they:

    • Become irritated

    • Bleed

    • Catch on clothing or jewellery

    • Affect vision (eyelids)

    • Cause cosmetic concerns

  • How are skin tags removed?

    Treatment depends on the size and location.

    Options include:

    • Snip excision

    • Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen)

    • Electrosurgery

    • Curettage in selected cases

    Your dermatologist will recommend the most suitable treatment.

  • Can skin tags be skin cancer?

    Most skin tags are harmless. However, occasionally another type of skin lesion may resemble a skin tag.

    If a growth changes rapidly, bleeds repeatedly, becomes painful or looks unusual, it should be assessed by a Specialist Dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.

  • Why choose Mermaid Beach Dermatology?

    We provide:

    • Accurate diagnosis

    • Assessment of unusual skin growths

    • Safe skin tag removal

    • Investigation of lesions that may resemble skin tags

    • Advice regarding recurrence and prevention

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No.

  • We do not recommend removing skin tags at home, as this may lead to bleeding, infection or removal of the wrong type of lesion.

  • The treated skin tag usually does not return, although new skin tags may develop elsewhere over time.

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Call us on 07 5597 0016 or complete the form below