The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors can

1. The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors can

2. What Causes Skin Tags? • Introduction • The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors can increase the likelihood of developing them: • Friction: Skin tags often develop in areas where the skin folds and rubs together, like the neck, underarms, or groin. Friction is thought to be a contributing factor to their growth. • Age: Skin tags are more common in middle-aged and older adults. The incidence increases with age, with many people developing them after the age of 40. • Genetics: If other members of your family have skin tags, you may be more prone to developing them as well. Genetics play a role in the likelihood of forming these growths. • Obesity: Being overweight increases the likelihood of developing skin tags due to increased skin folds and friction. • Hormonal Changes: Pregnant women may develop skin tags due to hormonal changes and increased skin friction from body changes during pregnancy. • Diabetes and Insulin Resistance: There is an association between skin tags and conditions like diabetes or insulin resistance, as these conditions can lead to increased skin growths.

3. Are Skin Tags Dangerous? • Introduction No, skin tags are benign, meaning they are not cancerous and do not pose any major health risks. However, while skin tags are harmless, they can sometimes become irritated, especially if they are located in areas that experience a lot of friction, such as on clothing or jewellery.In some rare cases, a skin tagmaybecome twistedor cut,leading to discomfort or bleeding, but this is usually easily treated. • How to Treat Skin Tags If you have a skin tag that’s bothering you, there areseveral methods to remove it. While home remedies are sometimes popular, it’s always bestto consult with a healthcare professionalfor safe removal.

4. Introduction 1.Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen. It destroys the tissue and causes the skin tag to fall off after a few days to weeks. 2.Excision: A qualified professional can remove a skin tag by cutting it off with sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel. This procedure is quick and usually done with local anaesthesia. 3. Cauterisation: This method uses heat to burn off the skin tag. It’s typically performed in a medical setting by a trained professional. 4. Ligation: Ligation involves tying off the base of the skin tag with asmall band orstring,cutting offits blood supply. Eventually,the skin tag willfalloff on its own. 5. Home Removal:While therearehome remedies for skin tag removal,such as usingover-the-counter treatments or natural methods liketea tree oil, these are not alwayssafe or effective.It’s alwaysrecommended to have skin tags professionallyremoved to avoid infection or improper removal in Milton Keynes Dermatology clinic.

5. Can Skin Tags Be Prevented? • Introduction • While there’s no surefire way to prevent skin tags, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk: • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Since skin tags are more common in individuals who are overweight, maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce the chances of developing them. • Reduce Friction: If you’re prone to skin tags in certain areas (like under your arms or around your neck), try to reduce friction by wearing loose-fitting clothing or using anti-chafing creams. • Monitor Skin Changes: Regularly check your skin for any new growths and keep track of any existing skin tags. Early detection is key to ensuring that any potential issues areaddressed before they cause discomfort.

6. When Should You See a Professional ? • While most skin tags don’t require medical attention, it’s important to consult an appropriately trained professional when: • A skin tag becomes painful, irritated, or inflamed. • A skin tag changes in appearance, such as growing rapidly or changing colour. • You’re unsure whether the growth on your skin is a skin tag or something else, such as a mole or cyst. • Appropriatelytrained staff can evaluate the growth and recommend thebesttreatment for you, ensuring it is removed safely if necessary.

7. Introduction • Conclusion Skin tags are a common, benign skin condition that many people experience. They are generally harmless but can be bothersome or unsightly. If you have a skin tag that is causing discomfort or affecting your appearance, there are various treatment options available, from professional removal to at-home care. Always consult with a healthcare professionalto ensure safe and effective removal. With a little knowledge about skin tags and theirtreatment, you can confidently manage this common condition and keep your skin healthy and clear.

8. Contact Us 01908 714496 hello@yourskin-mk.com • www.yourskin-mk.com • Fortuna House , 651 South Fifth Street, Milton Keynes MK9 2PQ