Skin tags: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see

For skin tags you can first see: Dermatology. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.

Common symptoms: small, soft, stalked growths on the neck, armpits, eyelids and groin; skin-coloured or slightly darker; irritation and bleeding when caught on jewellery, collars or belts; increasing in number over time. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.

Do not try home thread-tying or cutting methods; they can cause bleeding and infection.

The most common causes: friction in skin folds; excess weight and insulin resistance; pregnancy (hormonal changes); genetic tendency and age. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.

Skin tags do not disappear on their own but are harmless. If desired, a dermatologist can easily remove them by freezing, cautery or a small snip.

It is more common in: adults over 40; overweight people and those with insulin resistance or diabetes; pregnant women.

The diagnosis is made from the appearance. Suspicious-looking lesions can be sent for pathology after removal.

Keeping a healthy weight and controlling blood sugar may reduce new skin tags.

See dermatology.

No, skin tags are benign. However, any skin lesion that changes colour, bleeds or grows quickly should be checked.

They are mostly linked to friction and age, but having many can be linked to insulin resistance. Your doctor may request blood sugar tests.

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is the lesion growing quickly, changing colour, bleeding or forming a sore?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”

See a doctor: if they are bothersome or often irritated; if you are not sure what the growth is; if a lesion changes colour or grows quickly.