A skin tag is the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) which shows overgrowth (hyperplasia) and encloses an underlying layer of skin (the dermis) in which the normally-present collagen fibers appear abnormally loose and swollen.

Skin tags are a common, benign condition, consisting of a bit of skin that projects from the surrounding skin and may appear attached to the skin. Skin tags can vary quite a bit in appearance. They may be smooth or irregular, flesh colored or more deeply pigmented, and either simply be raised above the surrounding skin or have a stalk (a peduncle) so that the skin tag hangs from the skin.

Skin tags can occur almost anywhere there is skin. However, favorite areas for tags are the eyelids, neck, armpits (axillae), upper chest, and groin.

They are much more common with age beginning in middle age and they tend to be somewhat more prevalent in women than men.

Skin tags may be removed with sharp scissors, a sharp blade or by freezing or burning them off at the stalk. At Ultima, we use electric (cauterizing) for treatment which is less painful and eliminates any bleeding problem.
Because skin tags are only a cosmetic concern, not a medical problem, most health insurance plans will not pay for their removal.