Skin Tags

Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths of skin that often appear on areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, eyelids, and groin.

When to see a doctor for skin tags?

If the skin tag becomes painful, irritated, or bleeds

See a doctor if a skin tag becomes painful, inflamed, infected, or starts bleeding, especially if it rubs against clothing or jewellery.

If the skin tag changes in appearance

Consult a doctor if a skin tag grows quickly, changes in size, shape, or colour, or looks unusual, as this may require further assessment.

If you notice multiple skin tags or have cosmetic concerns

Seek medical advice if multiple skin tags appear suddenly, occur in unusual areas, or if the skin tag causes cosmetic discomfort or concern.

This guide does not replace professional care. Consult a doctor to manage your symptoms. In emergencies, call 000. The content is research-backed & medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

Causes

The exact cause of skin tags isn’t fully understood, but several factors can contribute to their development:

Friction: Skin tags often develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, or eyelids.
Genetics: A family history of skin tags can increase the likelihood of developing them.
Age: Skin tags become more common with age, particularly in adults over 50.
Hormonal changes: Pregnancy can cause hormonal fluctuations that make skin tags more likely, especially in areas like the neck and underarms.
Obesity: People who are overweight or obese have more skin folds, which increases friction and creates more opportunities for skin tags to form.
Diabetes: People with diabetes, particularly those with poorly controlled blood sugar, may be more prone to developing skin tags.
Human papillomavirus (HPV): Some research suggests that certain strains of HPV, which is a virus responsible for warts.

Symptoms

Here are a few things to look out for with skin tags:

Small, soft growths: Skin tags appear as small, soft, flesh-coloured or slightly darker growths of skin that may be raised from the surface.
No pain or discomfort: Skin tags are usually painless. However, they can become irritated if they rub against clothing, jewellery, or other skin, causing discomfort or pain.
Changes in size or appearance: Skin tags can sometimes grow larger over time, though they typically remain small and harmless.
No itching: They don’t typically itch, but in some cases, irritation from friction or clothing can cause mild itching.
Location: Skin tags usually form in areas of the body where skin rubs against skin or clothing, like the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, or under the breasts.
Bleeding or inflammation: If a skin tag is caught on clothing or jewellery, it may become irritated, inflamed, or bleed.

Can skin tags be prevented?

While skin tags can’t always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of developing them:

Maintain good hygiene: Regularly clean areas prone to friction, like the neck, armpits, and groin.
Wear loose clothing: Avoid tight clothes that cause irritation and friction on the skin.
Manage weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce skin folds where skin tags commonly form.
Protect sensitive skin: Use moisturisers to prevent skin irritation and keep the skin smooth.
Monitor for early signs: Be proactive in noticing and caring for any new skin growth to reduce risk.

It is important to speak to a GP first.

Hola Health provides a convenient way for you to consult a doctor online, 24/7 across Australia. Our AHPRA-registered Australian online GP will conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide the best possible care.

Clinical note: An online GP assessment helps provide medical advice for your skin tags symptoms and evaluate if a face-to-face consultation or physical examination is needed. Online GPs can provide prescriptions, specialist referrals or medical certificates if clinically indicated. Telehealth is a complementary service; a physical examination using a dermoscope may be necessary to distinguish a benign skin tag from other skin growths, including moles or skin cancers. Online GPs cannot perform physical removal procedures. After-hours bulk billing is available for eligible patients during Medicare-defined periods; otherwise, private fees apply. Consultations are secure, encrypted, and Australian-stored (in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles). In case of a rapidly spreading rash, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, call 000 immediately. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP to ensure continuity of care.