The exact cause of skin tags is not known; however, they can appear in places where you have folds of skin and where you have skin-to-skin contact.
As we age, our skin loses its elasticity, so more wrinkles and skin folds form. This is why skin tags tend to show up when we reach our forties and fifties, although they can appear at any age.
Skin tags shouldn’t be confused with moles, which can appear at any time and anywhere on the body, although most commonly in areas that are directly exposed to the sun. Skin tags are usually skin-coloured, whereas moles can be a different colour to your skin tone, usually appearing darker.
Being overweight or obese is one of the main causes of skin tag growth, as you’re likely to have more folds in your skin, especially on your neck and under your arms. However, you may also be more likely to grow skin tags if:
Insulin resistance and hormonal changes may be contributing factors to skin tag growth, so if you have skin tags appearing before your 40s, are a healthy weight and are experiencing symptoms of pregnancy or diabetes, you should see your doctor about the potential cause. Otherwise, skin tags are not a health concern and nothing to worry about. However, they can, of course, be annoying to live with, so you may want to consider having them removed.
Skin tags are small, soft growths that appear in places where you have folds of skin or where your skin rubs together and often look like they’re hanging off the skin, giving them their name.
They can usually be found on:
The exact cause of skin tags isn’t known; however, due to their location on folds of skin and in places where skin rubs together, it’s likely that they’re caused by light friction or warmth on the skin. They usually develop in middle age, so you may notice skin tags forming as you reach your 40s and 50s, but they may develop earlier if you have any of the following:
As we get older, wrinkles appear on our faces, especially around the eyes, as we develop what’s known as laughter lines from smiling, so eye skin tags are very common as we age. Skin tags in other locations, such as under the breasts and between the buttocks, can develop at any point, as there is near-constant skin-to-skin contact in these places.
Skin tags themselves are harmless and are not a health concern, so don’t worry if you start developing skin tags. They may be irritating, and as they can hang from your skin, they may get caught in your necklace or rub on your clothing, which can be uncomfortable, but will not cause you any other problems. If you do accidentally catch a skin tag and it bleeds, you can clean the wound and cover it to help it heal.
If you have lots of skin tags as well as other symptoms, it may be the case that you have type 2 diabetes or are pregnant, as the hormonal changes these cause may be a factor in the sudden growth of skin tags. Check to see if you have any other symptoms of diabetes or pregnancy, and see your doctor if you believe your skin tags are an indicator of either.
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Discover how our advanced eye and dental treatments have helped patients see clearly, smile confidently, and live better with personalised care, comfort, and lasting results.
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Hemlata T
Had a deep clean today with Alla and Rachel, which was great, they were very gentle and even fixed a stubborn stain between my teeth, which they noticed during the treatment! They supported me through the whole process and talked me through everything they were doing, which was extremely reassuring! Teeth are looking and feeling better than ever. Would definitely recommend!
Abs
Great service all around. Dr Uddin was knowledgeable, kind and put me at ease when having a chalazion removed. He helped me a lot with follow-up care for blepharitis, taking the time to show me how to clean my eyes properly. Michelle at the reception was also very friendly and helpful. Thank you again!
Amanda K
If I could give more than 5 stars for Mr J Uddin, I would. The reception staff were really polite and helpful. I had my chalazion removal surgery 2 months ago, and I was really worried and scared about the whole procedure since it involved a delicate area. Mr J Uddin is a very experienced ophthalmologist, and if you need to have the same surgery as I did, you’ll be in safe hands. It’s really good to see hcp’s going above and beyond for their patients. I really valued the knowledge that he shared with me, and I learnt a lot about my condition. I was actually meant to go to a different clinic before, but I’m so glad I found out about this clinic. I really hope I won’t need another chalazion removal surgery in my lifetime again, but if I ever did, I would 100% come back to this clinic.
Nicole
Very satisfying. Dr J. Uddin removed a cyst on my upper lid. He explained everything to me before and during the procedure, and he has a very calming appearance. The cyst removal was successful ,and it healed so well that you can’t see a mark/scar at all. Thank you so much!
Christine C
I had a great experience here over multiple appointments. I was very nervous beforehand, but Imran (my dentist) helped me stay calm during each visit and explained everything clearly, which really put me at ease. Georgia and Matthew at reception were really friendly and welcoming, and the dental nurses were also lovely — everyone I interacted with across all visits was kind and professional.
All of my appointments went smoothly, and I’m really happy with the end result. I’d definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a caring and reassuring dental team!
Chelsea W
I had a Chalazion removal with Mr Uddin. Fantastic results two months down the line, you’d never know I had it, and he made me feel so relaxed and at ease during the procedure, which was relatively pain-free! Thank you so much!
Becky P
I’ve never been a fan of the dentist, but Imran and all the team have always been professional, friendly and approachable. I’m now no longer scared of going to the dentist as I trust the helpful advice, care, after care they have given me, and nothing is too much trouble. I have since recommended Eye & Dental Clinic to my friends and family, and they, too, have had a great experience. I wouldn’t trust anyone else to look after my dental needs.
Tim R
Can’t thank Imran and the team enough. From the first meeting to the day getting my bonding done has been fantastic. Everything has been really well explained and clear throughout each step. On the day Imran stayed till well after closing to get my teeth how I wanted, which was greatly appreciated. Absolutely thrilled and would recommend to anyone.
Fiona C
I visited the clinic as my friend recommended Dr Imran. I was very impressed by the welcome I received and the assessment before I saw the dentist. Dr Imran spent a lot of time explaining my condition and advising on the best treatment options. I felt very comfortable, relaxed and reassured after my first visit.
Zain Y
Booked my checkup during the black Friday sale. Check up with the dentist was great. Had a follow-up appointment for a scale and polish procedure, which was conducted by Arla and Rachel, and was 10/10.
