• A skin tag is also known as an acrochordon. It is a small, soft and flesh-coloured growth that appears on the surface of the skin.
• The common areas where they can develop are regions of friction, such as the neck, armpits, eyelids, and groin.
• They normally do not create a health risk but their presence may cause inconvenience or aesthetic concerns to some individuals.

There can be different reasons for skin tags. 

• Friction from skin folds, genetic factors, obesity, advancing age, hormonal fluctuations, and insulin resistance are some of the key reasons.
• Skin tags may persist or increase in number if left untreated. They may sometimes become irritated or bleed due to friction with clothing or jewellery.
• In cases such as perianal or sentinel skin tags, timely evaluation is essential as these may be associated with underlying anal conditions such as fissures or haemorrhoids.

Skin tags can be of various types based on their location.

1. Common Skin Tags: Soft, small protrusions usually occurring on the neck, armpits, or chest.
   
2. Perianal Skin Tags: Appear around the anus and may be linked with haemorrhoids or fissures. They often cause discomfort and hygiene-related difficulties.
   
3. Sentinel Skin Tags: Form near the anal margin and are usually indicative of a chronic anal fissure.
   
4. Skin Tags on Neck: Frequently caused by friction with clothing or chains, these are among the most visible types.
   
5. Skin Tag on Armpit: Common in individuals with obesity or excessive sweating due to constant skin-to-skin contact.
6. Skin Tag on Eyelids: Skin tags may also occur on sensitive areas such as the eyelids, where they need careful evaluation and treatment.

The skin tag removal cost varies depending on the procedure type, number of tags, and location.

The final cost is determined after clinical evaluation and selection of the appropriate treatment modality.

Skin tags are benign growths but leaving them untreated can sometimes cause

• Recurrent irritation or discomfort from friction.
• Secondary infections if the tag is traumatised.
• Bleeding due to accidental injury.
• Cosmetic concerns, particularly in visible areas.

Potential masking of underlying anal conditions in cases of perianal or sentinel tags.

For sentinel or perianal skin tags, which may be associated with underlying anal conditions, a more advanced approach is often needed:

• Minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic surgery is preferred due to smaller incisions, faster recovery, and reduced discomfort.
• Traditional open surgery is considered only in select cases but involves larger cuts, longer hospital stay, and more pain during recovery.

Suggestion: Many people start taking home-based remedies such as tying threads, cutting tags with blades, or using over-the-counter creams. These can lead to bleeding, infection, and scarring. Clinical removal under professional supervision ensures a safe, effective and permanent solution.

Although complete prevention of skin tags is not always possible, there are some measures that can reduce their occurrence.

• Maintain a healthy body weight to reduce friction folds.
• Manage blood sugar levels particularly in diabetic patients.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing to minimise constant rubbing.
• Use gentle skincare products to avoid skin irritation.
• Attend periodic skin examinations for early detection and management.

For perianal or sentinel skin tags that require surgical intervention, minimally invasive options are often considered advantageous.