Why Am I Getting So Many Skin Tags Causes Removal Options

Skin tags—small, soft, benign growths that hang from the skin—are more common than most people realize. While they are not dangerous, a sudden increase in their number can be unsettling. They typically appear on the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, or beneath the breasts—areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Understanding why you’re developing multiple skin tags is key to managing them effectively. More importantly, knowing your safe and proven removal options helps you make informed decisions without resorting to risky DIY methods.

What Are Skin Tags and Who Gets Them?

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are harmless outgrowths composed of collagen fibers, blood vessels, and a covering of skin cells. They range in size from 1 millimeter to 5 centimeters and are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker. Though they can affect anyone, certain demographics are more prone:

• Adults over 40 years old
• Individuals with obesity or insulin resistance
• Pregnant women due to hormonal fluctuations
• People with a family history of skin tags
• Those with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome

The prevalence increases with age, and studies suggest up to 60% of adults will develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime. Their appearance often correlates with friction, but biology plays a larger role than previously thought.

Tip: Monitor new skin growths closely. If a tag changes color, bleeds frequently, or grows rapidly, consult a dermatologist immediately to rule out malignancy.

Common Causes of Multiple Skin Tags

While occasional skin tags may result from simple friction, a sudden surge in their number often signals underlying physiological factors. Here are the primary contributors:

Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes

Research consistently links skin tags with insulin resistance. A 2020 study published in *Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology* found that individuals with multiple skin tags were significantly more likely to have elevated fasting glucose levels. The theory is that high insulin levels stimulate skin cell growth, particularly in areas prone to friction.

Obesity and Skin Friction

Excess body weight increases skin folds, creating environments where skin constantly rubs against itself. This mechanical irritation promotes the formation of skin tags. Areas like the armpits, neck, and groin become hotspots. Weight loss often reduces both existing tags and future occurrences.

Hormonal Changes

Pregnancy and menopause can trigger skin tag development due to shifts in hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone. Human papillomavirus (HPV) strains, particularly types 6 and 11, have also been detected in some skin tag tissue, suggesting a possible viral component.

Genetics

If your parents or siblings have numerous skin tags, you're more likely to develop them. Hereditary predisposition affects skin structure and response to irritation.

“Multiple skin tags aren’t just a cosmetic concern—they can be a cutaneous marker for metabolic issues.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Safe and Effective Removal Options

While skin tags don’t require removal unless they cause discomfort or bother you cosmetically, knowing your options ensures you avoid unsafe practices. Never attempt to cut off a skin tag with non-sterile tools or without proper knowledge—it risks infection, scarring, and excessive bleeding.

Medical Procedures

Dermatologists use several clinical methods depending on the size, location, and number of tags:

Method	How It Works	Recovery Time	Risks
Cryotherapy	Liquid nitrogen freezes the tag, causing it to fall off in 1–2 weeks	Minimal; slight blistering possible	Hyperpigmentation in dark skin tones
Electrocautery	Burning the base with electric current	3–7 days healing	Scarring if not done properly
Excision	Snipping off with sterile scissors or scalpel	Quick; minor wound care needed	Bleeding, infection if unsterile
Ligation	Tying off blood supply with surgical thread	Tag falls off in 5–10 days	Discomfort, rare infection

These procedures are quick, performed under local anesthesia if needed, and highly effective. Most insurance plans cover removal if the tag is irritated or symptomatic.

At-Home Treatments (With Caution)

Some over-the-counter solutions exist, though effectiveness varies:

• Natural thread ligation: Tying dental floss or silk thread around the base to cut off blood flow. Must be done carefully to avoid infection.
• Topical solutions: Products containing salicylic acid or tea tree oil may gradually break down tissue, but results take weeks and aren’t guaranteed.
• Cryotherapy kits: Store-bought freezing devices (e.g., Wartner) mimic professional treatment but are less precise.

Tip: Never use nail clippers, razors, or household scissors to remove skin tags. Sterility and precision matter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Evaluating and Managing Skin Tags

Follow this timeline to address skin tags safely and understand potential health implications:

1. Week 1: Document and assess. Take photos of all visible tags. Note their location, size, and whether they’ve changed recently.
2. Week 2: Evaluate lifestyle factors. Consider weight, blood sugar control, clothing fit, and family history. Are you overweight? Do you have symptoms of insulin resistance (fatigue, frequent hunger)?
3. Week 3: Consult your doctor. Discuss your skin tags during a routine checkup. Request blood work to check glucose, HbA1c, and lipid profile.
4. Week 4: Choose removal method. Based on medical advice, opt for professional removal or conservative monitoring.
5. Ongoing: Prevent recurrence. Maintain a healthy weight, wear loose-fitting clothes, and manage underlying conditions like diabetes.

Mini Case Study: Maria’s Experience with Recurring Skin Tags

Maria, a 48-year-old teacher, noticed an increasing number of skin tags on her neck and underarms over six months. Initially dismissing them as aging, she became concerned when new ones appeared weekly. After visiting her dermatologist, she was referred to an endocrinologist. Blood tests revealed prediabetes. With dietary changes, increased physical activity, and losing 15 pounds, Maria not only stabilized her glucose levels but also stopped developing new skin tags. Her existing ones were removed via cryotherapy, and none have returned after two years.

This case highlights how skin tags can serve as early warning signs of systemic health issues—ones that are manageable with timely intervention.

Do’s and Don’ts: Quick Checklist

• ✅ Do see a dermatologist if you have more than five skin tags.
• ✅ Do get blood sugar tested if skin tags multiply suddenly.
• ✅ Do keep skin folds dry and clean to reduce irritation.
• ❌ Don’t ignore tags that bleed, itch, or darken.
• ❌ Don’t use sharp objects from home for removal.
• ❌ Don’t assume all hanging growths are skin tags—seborrheic keratoses or moles can look similar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can skin tags turn into cancer?

No, skin tags are benign and do not become malignant. However, other skin growths may resemble them, so any suspicious change should be evaluated by a professional.

Will removing a skin tag cause more to grow?

No scientific evidence supports this myth. Removal does not stimulate new growth. However, if underlying causes like insulin resistance remain, new tags may still form elsewhere.

Are skin tags contagious?

Not directly, but because certain HPV strains are associated with skin tags, there may be a low risk of transmission through direct skin contact in rare cases. This is not a major concern for typical acrochordons.

Take Control of Your Skin Health

Skin tags are more than a nuisance—they can reflect deeper health patterns related to metabolism, hormones, and genetics. Instead of simply removing them, consider what their presence might be telling you about your overall well-being. Addressing root causes like insulin resistance or obesity not only reduces future skin tags but also lowers your risk of chronic disease. Whether you choose professional removal or preventive lifestyle changes, taking action now leads to better long-term outcomes.

💬 Have questions about your skin tags or experiences with removal? Share your story in the comments—your insight could help someone else find clarity and confidence.