Causes of skin tags on the face and the best recipes to get rid of them

Some people suffer from the appearance of skin tags on their face, which causes them great discomfort, especially girls and women who seek to remove them to get a more attractive appearance. In the following lines, Dalili Medical provides a set of home remedies to get rid of skin tags on the face, according to what was stated on our website.

**What are skin tags?**
Skin tags are extra bumps that usually appear in areas such as the neck or under the armpits, and sometimes in other places. Their size ranges from 2 to 10 millimeters, and they are benign tumors that are harmless even if left untreated, and consist of a group of fibers, channels, nerve cells and fat.

**Do skin tags increase in size over time?**

Skin tags appear as small fleshy lumps, and are usually no more than 10 millimeters in size. In some cases, their size may increase, which increases the need to remove them, especially since they may cause aesthetic deformity and rub against clothing, leading to a feeling of itching or even bleeding.

**What do skin tags indicate?**

Most skin tags are non-cancerous and do not spread between the body's cells, and are often just a cosmetic problem. However, the patient is advised to visit a doctor to conduct the necessary tests to ensure that there are no malignant tumors, in addition to determining the appropriate treatment method.

**What are the most common areas for skin tags to appear?**

Skin tags usually appear in areas where the skin folds, such as the neck, armpits, groin area, and eyelids. They can also appear on the trunk and under the breast, especially in people who are overweight. In terms of shape, skin tags are usually skin-colored or slightly darker, and often hang from the skin by a small stalk. Their size ranges from a small dot smaller than a grain of rice to the size of a large pea or even larger in some cases.

**Do skin tags spread in the body?**

No, skin tags remain in a specific place and do not spread in the body. Fortunately, they are not contagious, which means that others will be safe from them even in the event of physical contact.

**Can skin tags come back after treatment?**

No, it is a good thing that skin tags do not come back after they are removed. However, new ones may appear over time.

**Do skin tags itch?**

Generally speaking, skin tags are harmless, but they can be a source of irritation and embarrassment. Many people experience itching from skin tags, which can range from mild to severe. Among the most common skin tags that cause itching are genital warts and common skin tags. Genital warts are contagious and can cause itching, in addition to unwanted skin growth.

Small skin tags often appear around the anus or vagina in females and around the penis in males. Although they rarely cause discomfort, they can cause itching when rubbed against clothing or jewelry. If the itching is very bothersome, it is advisable to visit a doctor to explore treatment options, especially with the best doctors in Madinah within the Distinguished Medical Complex. There are also several techniques available, such as bleaching sensitive areas.

**Characteristics of facial polyps and methods of diagnosis**

Before discussing the methods of treating facial polyps and the causes of their appearance, it is important to point out their characteristics to facilitate the process of diagnosing them. Polyps are usually small, ranging in diameter from 1 mm to 1 cm, and sometimes they may increase in size. They are flesh-colored and may change color to become darker than the skin color. Polyps often arise directly from the skin or are attached to a small stalk. These growths are widely spread on the face, neck, eyelids, and lower extremities, and often appear in areas that contain folds. Polyps can form individually or in groups, and may be isolated or clustered. Given the difficulty of diagnosing polyps in different parts of the skin, it is preferable to consult a doctor when discovering any polyps, whether they are incidental, bleeding, itchy, or those that change in shape or color over time.

**How ​​to remove skin tags overnight?**

Skin tags can be removed overnight through medical procedures such as cryosurgery or electrocautery. If the skin tags are long and hanging, your doctor may remove them using medical scissors.

**How ​​to cut off skin tags painlessly?**

Do not try to cut off skin tags at home. Instead, visit a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your problem. If the skin tags are short, your doctor will perform the procedure to minimize discomfort or pain.

**Skin tag shapes and types**

**Classic skin tags:** These are the most common, and usually appear in areas of friction with clothing or skin, such as the armpits and neck. They are skin-colored, soft, and tender.

**Genital skin tags:** These are less common, and are often confused with genital warts, which are transmitted through sexually transmitted diseases. Skin tags in these areas are soft, painless, or dangerous, and often appear as a result of friction and moisture.

**Skin horn:** is a type of skin growth that extends from the skin and is made of keratin. It comes in different sizes and colors, such as skin-colored, yellow, brown, or pink. It appears in various areas of the body, and although the reason for its appearance is not clear, it is believed that it is caused by excessive exposure to sunlight or infection with the human papilloma virus.

**Benign skin lumps:** Some benign skin tumors that appear in the form of bumps and growths include dermatofibroma, which is formed by the accumulation of soft tissue cells under the skin (blast cells).

For fibroids). They often appear on the legs and are more common in women, and can be surgically removed if they become bothersome.

**Cancerous skin tags:** Although most skin tags do not pose a health risk, some signs may appear that indicate that they have turned into a problem that requires immediate consultation with a specialist doctor, as these signs may be indicative of skin cancer, including:

- Change in the size of the tags and increased sweating in the hands.
- Change in their shape and color, so that they become darker or turn brown over time.
- Significantly increased spread in the skin and in multiple areas.
- Hair appears on them.
- Feeling pain or itching in general or when removing body hair.

**Does removing skin tags increase the likelihood of more of them appearing later?**
No, there is a common misunderstanding about this topic. There is no evidence or clinical trials indicating that removing skin tags leads to increased growth. Polyps are benign tumors that are not capable of spreading, and do not pose a risk when removed and treated. As for the frequency of treatment, it varies from person to person based on the sensitivity of their skin, and this is what your doctor will explain during the initial consultation session.

**Skin tags and cancer**

Skin tags are completely benign tumors, and it is very rare for them to turn into cancerous tumors.

**Are skin tags contagious?**

No, there is no clinical evidence to support the idea that skin tags can be contagious. It is unlikely that they can be transmitted from one person to another or spread from one affected area to another, unlike infectious diseases. In comparison, the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes warts is considered highly contagious, while skin tags are not associated with a virus or bacteria.

**Should I be concerned about cutting skin tags while shaving?**

No, skin tags may be accidentally shaved during hair removal, such as shaving or waxing. Skin tags are rarely damaged during shaving, but in the case of large tags, bleeding may occur for a period of time. In this case, pressure should be applied to the bleeding site for 10 minutes or more to stop it. One of the potential complications of cutting skin tags while shaving is the risk of infection, so the area should be sterilized to avoid this.

**The difference between warts and skin tags**

Skin tags can be distinguished from warts fairly easily, as follows:

- Warts usually have a rough and irregular surface, while skin tags usually have a smooth surface.
- Warts appear flat, while skin tags appear as protrusions hanging from a small or thin neck.
- Warts are usually caused by the human papillomavirus, while skin tags are rarely associated with this virus.
- Warts are highly contagious and can be transmitted to others and to other areas of the body, unlike skin tags, which are considered non-contagious.
- Warts form deep in the skin, while skin tags form on the outer surface of the skin.

**Causes of skin tags**

Skin tags are a common problem, with half of all people getting them at some point in their lives. There is no clear reason for their appearance, but there are several factors that play a role in this, including:

- **Aging**: Skin tags are not formed from birth, but their growth rate increases with age, as they are more common in middle age and increase in prevalence until the age of sixty. Most people stop noticing any skin tags by the age of seventy. It is worth noting that young children may also develop skin tags, and mothers often notice their presence on their children's necks.

**Friction**
Friction in all its forms is one of the most prominent causes that lead to the appearance of skin tags, especially in moist areas of the skin that lack ventilation, such as the area under the breasts, where friction occurs between the layers of the skin. Friction of the skin with clothing or accessories can also contribute to this.

**Genetic factors**
Genetic factors are important causes of the appearance of skin tags, as reports from the US National Institute of Health indicate that about 46% of cases in which skin tags appear are due to genetic causes.

**High blood sugar and insulin levels**
High blood sugar or insulin levels can increase the risk of skin tags, although the mechanism linking the appearance of tags to blood sugar and insulin is still unknown.

**Insulin resistance**
Some studies have shown a link between the appearance of skin tags and insulin resistance. Although there is not enough research to determine the exact cause, it is believed that hyperinsulinemia may affect the growth of various body cells by activating receptors for the hormone IGF1, which plays a role in growth during childhood and has a constructive effect in adults, which may promote skin growth and lead to the appearance of skin tags.

**Causes of pathological skin tags**
Some doctors indicate that there may be a link between the appearance of skin tags and some health problems, especially if many of them appear quickly. In this case, it is advisable to see a doctor to check the health condition and get the appropriate treatment. Health disorders that may lead to the appearance of skin tags include:

- Metabolic syndrome
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome
- Hyperlipidemia
- High levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein

**Human papillomavirus**
There is a link between HPV infection and the appearance of skin tags, as this virus can cause warts in some cases. It is important to note that skin tags are not contagious, and will not be transmitted to other parts of the body or from one person to another.

 Risk factors for the appearance of skin tags

There are several factors that may increase the likelihood of the appearance of skin tags, the most prominent of which are:

- **Pregnancy**: A change in the level of 

Hormonal changes, especially during the second trimester of pregnancy. Skin tags are harmless to pregnant women and usually do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort, in which case they can be removed by a dermatologist either during or after pregnancy.

- **Change in sex hormone levels**: This may occur in women who take birth control pills or estrogen.

- **High levels of growth factors**: This occurs in conditions such as acromegaly, during pregnancy, or gigantism.

- **Black skin tags**: The color of clotted skin tags may suddenly change to black due to a lack of blood supply to them. These tags usually fall off on their own within 3 to 10 days and do not require additional treatment, but it is recommended to visit a doctor if the color of the tags changes in general.

 Signs that indicate the need to visit a doctor

There are some signs that indicate the need to consult a dermatologist, including:

- The spread of skin tags.
- Their size increases to 2 cm or more.
- Bleeding from skin tags.
- Appearance of skin tags in the genital area.
- Change in the texture of skin tags from smooth to rough.
- Appearance of skin tags irregularly.
- Feeling pain when touching the tags.
- Varied colors of skin tags, such as pink, brown, or red.

 Causes of skin tags on the face

Skin tags appear as a result of the growth of excess cells on the surface of the skin, and are more common in cases of skin friction with each other, such as overweight and obesity. There are also other factors that increase the likelihood of their appearance, such as:

- High blood sugar levels.
- Aging.
- Pregnancy, as the tags usually disappear after childbirth.

**Types of skin tags**

**Round and rough tags:** These tags are the most common and widespread, and often appear on the fingers, but they may also appear in other areas of the body. These tags are characterized by their rough texture and round shape, and may be colored in a grayish color, making them different from the color of the surrounding skin.

**Plantar warts:** These warts appear on the soles of the feet, unlike other types that appear on the surface. These warts are internal, and are often known for their appearance as a hole in the foot with dry, hard edges.

**Flat warts:** These warts appear on areas such as the face, thighs, and arms. They start small and grow over time, and are flat and pink or sometimes yellow in color.

**Filiform warts:** These warts appear around the mouth or nose, and sometimes on the neck or under the chin. They take the shape of a thread and are characterized by their color that matches the natural skin color.

**Peri-nail warts:** As the name suggests, these warts appear around the nails, are painful, and may affect nail growth.

**When should you see a doctor?**
Some skin conditions such as warts and raised moles are similar to skin tags, so it is best to consult a specialist doctor to diagnose them, especially since some moles may be cancerous. The doctor can diagnose skin tags through visual examination, and if there are doubts, he may take a biopsy as a precaution. It is recommended to visit a doctor to remove skin tags for the following reasons: The doctor is qualified and experienced in dealing with all types of unwanted skin growth, and the tools used to remove the tags are sharp and sterilized according to medical standards. Removing skin tags incorrectly may exacerbate the problem.

**Treatment of skin tags from the pharmacy:**

- **Salivary acid solution:** works to peel the outer layers of the skin and skin tags. It is used at a concentration of 16.7% on the head of the tags once daily until they disappear, and it is not recommended to use it on the face.

- **Podophyllin cream:** An extract from the plant (Podophyllum Peltatum), used to treat genital skin tags, as it inhibits cell proliferation in the target cells.

- **Nitrogen spray:** Used to freeze skin tags, which leads to their death and falling off. Despite its effectiveness, it is not considered the best choice for soft growths on the face and neck, as it may cause burns.

- **Skin tag removal creams:** Available in pharmacies and contain substances such as salicylic acid and tea tree oil, and are considered safe for home use when the instructions are followed.

- **Skin tag removal adhesive:** Patches containing effective herbal substances, easy to use and safe, but it is recommended not to use them in areas with severe folds such as the armpit and between the fingers.

**Methods for removing skin tags at home**

There are several ways to remove skin tags at home, including:

1. **Ligation**: A surgical thread is wrapped around the base of the skin tag, cutting off its blood supply. This causes the cells in the tag to die, and after a while it falls off. However, this method may cause bleeding, risk of infection or scarring, in addition to the possibility of the tag growing back.

2. **Using a skin patch (OTC)**: Skin patches can be purchased from pharmacies without a prescription, where they are placed on the skin tag for a certain period. However, there is not enough evidence to prove the effectiveness of this method, and it may cause skin irritation.

3. **Skin tag removal creams**: Creams containing tea tree oil and salicylic acid are believed to help remove skin tags, but they may cause contact dermatitis.

4. **Cryotherapy**: Over-the-counter freezing kits contain chemicals that lower the temperature of the skin tags, destroying the excess tissue. However, the use of liquid nitrogen by a doctor makes this method more effective.

5. **Tea tree oil**: Tea tree oil has antiviral and antifungal properties. The oil is applied to the skin tags using a cotton ball after cleaning the area, then the oil is massaged into it and covered with a bandage overnight. It should be avoided on sensitive skin.

6. **Apple cider vinegar*

*: Put some apple cider vinegar on a piece of cotton and apply it directly to the skin tags for 15 to 30 minutes, then wash the area. This process can be repeated daily until the tags fall off.

7. **Banana peel**: Banana peel helps dry out the skin tags, which stimulates their fall off.

8. **Vitamin E**: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps fight wrinkles and prevent skin tags, which contributes to maintaining healthy skin.

9. **Garlic**: Crushed garlic can be used on skin tags in small amounts and for a short period to avoid skin irritation.

10. **Iodine**: Studies on the effectiveness of iodine in removing skin tags are still insufficient, and it may take a long time to see results.

11. **Onion juice**: Onion juice is used by cutting the onion into slices, then covering them with salt and leaving them overnight. The next day, the slices are pressed to extract the juice, which is placed on the skin tags and the area is covered with a bandage overnight.

Always remember to consult a specialist before trying any of these methods to ensure your safety.

**Medical Methods for Removing Skin Tags**

Surgical procedures to remove skin tags are common in outpatient clinics and medical centers. After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, the doctor determines the appropriate procedure based on the size and location of the skin tag.

1. **Cauterization**: The doctor burns the skin tags using a special device, and it may take several sessions to get rid of them.

2. **Threading**: This method can be performed at home, with the need to use clean thread to avoid infections. The skin tags are tied with thread to cut off the blood supply, which causes them to dry out and fall off.

3. **Cryotherapy**: The doctor sprays liquid nitrogen on the skin tags, which causes them to freeze and fall off within 10-14 days. This procedure may cause inflammation in the surrounding skin, and some cases may require additional treatments depending on the size and location of the tag.

4. **Electrocautery**: A needle-like electrode is used to pass an electric current into the tissue, causing it to dry out.

5. **Ligation therapy**: The blood flow to the skin tag is cut off by tying its base with a surgical thread.

6. **Surgery**: The doctor cuts the skin tag from its base using surgical scissors, making sure to remove it completely. The use of bandages or stitches depends on the size and location of the tag.

7. **Laser excision**: This is a modern and popular method for removing skin tags, as the laser targets the tag with a high-intensity light beam, destroying the tissue and causing the tag to fall off within a few days. This type of excision can be safely performed in a dermatologist's office.

8. **Skin tag removal patches**: These patches cut off the blood supply to the tag, causing it to die and fall off. They contain medications, and it is recommended to leave them on the tag for several days or weeks until they fall off.

9. **Skin tag removal creams**: They may be effective in some cases, but you should be careful of their ingredients such as salicylic acid and tea tree oil, which may cause irritation or inflammation. It is recommended to clean the skin with an alcohol swab before applying the cream, and the tags should fall off within 2 to 3 weeks.

10. **Flossing treatment**: Some people use dental floss to tie the skin tags. When doing this, the cells lose their ability to survive and die quickly, but the thread must be pulled tightly to avoid blood flow, as any slight flow may lead to the failure of the process.

It is best to make sure that your hands are well disinfected, in addition to checking the cleanliness and safety of the thread, and sterilizing the area surrounding the skin tag appropriately.

You can leave the thread for a maximum of two days, then pull it with your hand at the end.

Some people may not prefer to use this method on the face, as it may leave scars that need some time to heal.

However, this method is considered one of the fastest and most effective methods in this field.