Skin Tag Trivia: 10 Fascinating Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Skin tags, those small, benign growths that often appear on the skin, are more common than you might think. Despite their prevalence, there are many interesting and lesser-known facts about skin tags that can surprise even the most knowledgeable skincare enthusiasts. Here are ten fascinating facts about skin tags that you probably didn’t know!

1. They Have a Fancy Name

Skin tags are medically known as acrochordons. This term is derived from the Greek words “akron,” meaning extremity, and “chorde,” meaning string. This name refers to the string-like appearance that skin tags can sometimes have.

2. They Are Extremely Common

It’s estimated that about 25% to 50% of adults will develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime. These harmless growths are particularly common in middle-aged and older adults.

3. Genetics Play a Role

If your parents or grandparents had skin tags, there’s a higher chance you might develop them too. Genetics play a significant role in the likelihood of developing skin tags, so they can run in families.

4. They’re Often Found in Certain Areas

Skin tags commonly appear in areas where the skin folds or experiences friction. Typical locations include the neck, armpits, groin, under the breasts, and eyelids. They can also form in other areas but are less common there.

5. Obesity and Skin Tags

People who are overweight or obese are more prone to developing skin tags. This is likely because they have more skin folds, which can create friction and lead to the formation of these growths.

6. Skin Tags and Diabetes

There is a notable correlation between skin tags and diabetes. Studies have shown that people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have skin tags. This might be related to insulin resistance and other metabolic factors associated with diabetes.

7. Hormonal Changes Can Trigger Them

Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, can increase the likelihood of developing skin tags. Pregnant women often notice an increase in skin tags due to hormonal fluctuations and weight gain.

8. They Are Not Contagious

Unlike some skin conditions caused by viruses or bacteria, skin tags are not contagious. You can’t catch them from someone else, and they don’t spread from one part of your body to another through touch.

9. No Clear Cause

The exact cause of skin tags is still unknown. While factors like friction, genetics, and hormonal changes are associated with their development, there isn’t a definitive explanation for why they occur.

10. They Can Be Easily Removed

While skin tags are harmless and usually don’t require treatment, they can be removed if they are bothersome or for cosmetic reasons. Removal methods include cutting them off with sterilized scissors, freezing them off (cryotherapy), or burning them off (cauterization). It’s best to have these procedures done by a healthcare professional to avoid complications.

Conclusion

Skin tags may be small and benign, but they are certainly interesting and more common than many people realize. Understanding these fascinating facts can help demystify skin tags and reduce any concerns about their presence. Whether you choose to keep them or have them removed, knowing more about skin tags can empower you to make informed decisions about your skin health. So next time you spot a skin tag, you’ll have a wealth of trivia to share!

Embrace skin health with Bad Skin. Contact Bad Skin at (415) 669-0888 or visit our medspa at 933 Emerson St., Palo Alto, CA 94301 to explore our services. Let’s be bad, but better.

Currently serving the Bay Area, CA – Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, Burlingame, Colma, Daly City, East Palo Alto, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Hillsborough, Menlo Park, Millbrae, Pacifica, Portola Valley, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Mateo, South San Francisco, Woodside