Skin tag, technically known as acrochordon, is a small benign growth on the skin. It can appear anywhere on the body and are connected to the skin by a stalk. Skin tags are non-cancerous and are not contagious. Acrochordons usually appear in men and women as they age and are most commonly seen on the eyelids, neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts. These growths tend to develop in parts of the body with folds, but they can also appear elsewhere where skin rubs against clothing.

Symptoms of acrochordons
Acrochordons can be diagnosed by visual inspection. Here are the symptoms of skin tags:

Small skin growths
Acrochordons are usually less than 2mm in diameter. Some may grow bigger, ranging between 2mm to 5 mm. They are flesh-colored growths, and some may be even darker in color. These can be either on the skin’s surface or may hang from a thin stalk of skin.
Bleeding
Although acrochordons are painless, they might become sore and bleed when irritated. If a skin tag has a long stalk that can be twisted, it may turn black in color as a result of a lack of blood flow to the skin. Usually, it resolves on its own, but if it does not heal and there are signs of infection, such as the appearance of pus, redness, soreness around the area, or fever, it is essential to visit your healthcare provider.

Causes of acrochordons
Though the exact cause of skin tags is not known; they occur when the body produces extra cells in the top layers of the skin. These growths are a build-up of blood vessels and collagen. When these become trapped inside thicker pieces of skin, it results in the development of skin tags.

Friction
As skin tags most commonly occur in skin folds, friction may cause the development of skin tags. For example, when the skin rubs against other skin or clothing or jewelry.
Genetics
Acrochordons may also appear due to genetics. If a parent has skin tags, it is more likely for the child to also have them.
Pregnancy
The changes in hormones during pregnancy may cause the formation of skin tags. They usually disappear after delivery.
Diabetes
Skin tags can also be a sign of insulin issues. When too much insulin is circulating in the body, it causes skin tags to develop.
Age
Acrochordons develop in men and women as they grow older. The loss of collagen and elastin can cause the growth of skin tags.
Human papilloma virus (HPV)
Those with some types of HPV infection may also have skin tags.

Treatment for acrochordons
In most cases, acrochordons fall off on their own without any pain or discomfort. In certain cases, growths like skin tags may look like a wart or skin disease. It is recommended to see a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis.

Acrochordons do not cause harm, but if their appearance bothers you, you can talk to your healthcare provider to remove them. Large skin tags can irritate or bleed, especially in those areas where they rub against something, such as clothing or jewelry. In such cases, their removal is essential. At-home treatments are available but are not safe as they have a higher risk of complications, including excessive bleeding, scars, and infection.

Treatment for skin tags usually depends on factors such as their location on the body, size, number, and more. If the removal of the skin tag is suitable as per your primary doctor, your dermatologist will recommend the following options.

Removal methods
Acrochordons may be removed by a dermatologist using any of the following procedures. A local anesthetic may be used to numb the area.

Electrocautery
The skin tag is burned with electrical energy.
Cryotherapy
The skin tag is frozen with liquid nitrogen.
Excision
In some cases where the skin tag is large, it is cut off using surgical scissors or a scalpel.

Skin tags on the eyelid are most often removed by an ophthalmologist. Some people may develop a scar after the removal, which usually disappears with time. It is important to understand that skin tag removal does not prevent the development of new ones. Though an acrochordon may not come in the same place, it may occur near or far from the original place. If you are prone to skin tags, you should continue to see a dermatologist.

Conclusion
Skin tags cannot be prevented, especially if you have a family history of them. However, you can minimize the risk by making healthy life choices and taking care of your skin. Maintaining a certain BMI may help reduce skin folds where skin tags tend to develop, lowering your risk for acrochordons.