Skin Tags on The Neck: Causes, Treatment and Effective Solutions
Skin tags are small, harmless, and benign growths that occur on the skin. They often develop on the neck, eyelids, armpits, and groyne. However, skin tags on the neck can be particularly troublesome as they are often visible and can cause embarrassment. In this blog post, we will discuss what skin tags are, the causes of skin tags on the neck, the symptoms of skin tags on the neck, the treatments available, and how to prevent skin tags from forming.
What are Skin Tags?
Despite their unsightly appearance, skin tags are a common benign skin development. They are typically flesh-colored or somewhat darker and have a slender stem that attaches them to the skin. Generally, skin tags are painless and do not cause discomfort. Sizes range from that of a single granule of rice to that of an entire grape.
Causes of Skin Tags on the Neck
The specific aetiology of skin tags is unknown, although the following conditions may contribute to their formation:
- Friction: Necks and other areas of skin friction are common places for skin tags to form.
- Genetics: The tendency to develop skin tags may run in families.
- Age: The elderly are disproportionately affected by skin tags.
- Hormones: Skin tags are more common when hormone levels fluctuate, such as during pregnancy and menopause.
- Obesity: Skin tags are more prevalent among overweight and obese individuals.
Symptoms of Skin Tags on the Neck
Common symptoms include small, fleshy, flesh-colored growths connected to the skin by a thin stalk. Typically painless and unpleasant, their appearance may be smooth or slightly wrinkled. While skin tags are generally harmless, they can become irritated if repeatedly rubbed or scratched, leading to redness or inflammation around the affected area.
Additionally, skin tags on the neck can be unsightly and may cause feelings of self-consciousness, particularly if they are large or numerous. To get better guidance, see your doctor for specific treatment.
Treatments for Skin Tags on the Neck
Most skin tags on the neck are harmless and can be ignored. Some people, however, may choose to have them surgically removed because of how they affect their appearance. Skin tags on the neck can be treated in a few different ways:
- The skin tag naturally falls off after cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen.
- Electrosurgery involves using an electric current to "burn" the mole off the patient's skin.
- Blood flow is cut off from the skin tag by tying it off with a string or dental floss, a process known as ligation.
- The medical technique known as excision is what is done to get rid of the skin tag.
It is recommended that you seek medical advice from a dermatologist or physician before attempting any form of skin tag removal.
What are Some Options to Prevent Skin Tag Formation?
Although it may be impossible to completely avoid the formation of skin tags, there are several things you can do to lower your risk of having them, including:
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Skin tags are more common in the obese population.
- Avoid friction: Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing that may rub against your neck.
- Practising good hygiene: Skin tags are easily avoided by maintaining a clean, dry neck.
- Eating a healthy diet: Reduce your skin tag risk by eating more fruits, veggies, and healthy grains.
Conclusion
Skin tags on the neck are a common and harmless condition that can be easily treated or removed for cosmetic reasons. The specific reason why some people get skin tags and others don't is unclear; nevertheless, we know that friction, heredity, age, hormones, and fat all have a role. Treatment options include cryotherapy, electrosurgery, ligation, and excision, but seeking medical advice before attempting any removal at home is important.
In addition to treatments, preventative measures can be taken to reduce the likelihood of skin tag formation, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding friction, practicing good hygiene, and eating a healthy diet.
