Although skin tags themselves are harmless, you may occasionally notice what appears to be a rash from skin tags. Considering the itchy, inflamed nature of rashes, it’s no surprise that this may start to alarm you. Especially if it is forming in a highly visible area.
The first thing to do is determine if it is, in fact, a skin tag that you are dealing with and not another condition which may cause a rash. Most often a skin tag is confused for a wart as they can be visually similar. However, warts usually have a rough texture with a flatter outgrowth whereas skin tags have a smooth outer covering and often dangling from the surface of the skin. If you have determined it is a skin tag lets understand a bit better why a rash may occur in the same area.
Why do skin tags occur?
Skin tags are caused by the trapping of blood vessels and collagen under the skin. Almost 25% of the population tend to develop these skinny outgrowths after the age of 40. Although there is no one particular reason for the appearance of skin tags they are believed to develop due to:
- Friction – Skin folds or creases such as the neck areas, groin, eyelids, and armpits are the most likely areas to find skin tags. This is because they are prone to friction caused by rubbing of the skin against skin or against clothes and jewelry.
- Weight gain – People who are obese or suffering from high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure or diabetes tend to develop skin tags.
- Hormones – Hormone imbalance plays a major role in the development of skin tags. Especially when there are changes in the levels of progesterone or estrogen. Pregnant women may see an increase in skin tag growths during their pregnancy.
- Genetics – Some people appear to inherit an increased genetic susceptibility to skin tags.
Why do I have a rash near my skin tag?
A rash is a change in the skin color and texture. It may present as reddishness, itchiness, dryness, and/or pain. In extreme cases, the skin swells and blisters may develop along with the raw skin patches. Some of the main reasons for rashes include allergy, irritation, poor hygiene, a skin disease or an infection. A rash can be a small irritation or a sign of something more serious
A skin tag is benign and harmless so any rash from skin tags would not be directly caused by the little growth. Skin tags are not the cause of a bacterial or viral infection. If a rash does develop around a skin tag it is usually due to the skin tag being scratched or pulled. Skin tags grow in areas of high friction. This friction and chafing may cause an irritation or the skin tag to get twisted or pulled. This irritation is why you may get a rash from skin tags.
How to deal with bothersome skin tags?
Skin tags do not require any treatment, but most people choose to remove them due to their ability to get irritated or for cosmetic reasons. If you have a rash from skin tags, it is best to wait until it has healed before removing it. That is why it is good to be proactive and remove the skin tags once you notice them. There are many natural remedies and over the counter products available to remove skin tags. So once you notice a skin tag, remove it rather than pick at it or scratch it. This irritation can only make it worse and may cause it to bleed. If you have developed a rash around a skin tag, try placing a band-aid over it and leaving it alone. If the rash does not disappear within a day or two, consult with your doctor. It may then be due to an infection or allergy.
Skin tags are sometimes so small, they can occasionally be accidentally shaved off while removing body hair. If this does happen, don’t worry. Sometimes minor bleeding may occur. This can easily be stopped by applying constant pressure for a few minutes in the affected area. There is a possibility of infection to the skin when a skin tag gets accidentally removed. So always put some antibacterial cream on the area and keep an eye on it.