Skin tags are common benign growths that typically cause no discomfort. However, when a skin tag starts growing larger and becomes painful, it may signal an underlying issue requiring attention. This article explores the causes behind painful, enlarging skin tags and provides guidance on appropriate treatments and when medical intervention becomes necessary.
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths that typically appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. These benign growths consist of collagen fibers and blood vessels surrounded by a thin layer of skin.
Common locations for skin tags include:
Most skin tags remain small (2-5mm) and cause no symptoms. However, some may grow larger and develop complications. According to dermatology experts at The Minor Surgery Center, skin tags affect nearly half of all adults, with incidence increasing with age and weight gain.
A skin tag getting bigger and hurts can be concerning and uncomfortable. Several factors can trigger this change in previously benign growths:
The most common reason for a painful, enlarging skin tag is physical irritation. When skin tags develop in areas with frequent friction—such as collar lines, undergarments, or jewelry contact points—they can become:
This irritation can trigger growth as the body responds to the constant trauma with inflammation.
Skin tags connect to the body through a thin stalk (peduncle). When a skin tag twists on its stalk, it can restrict blood flow, leading to:
This condition, known as torsion, essentially strangulates the skin tag. In some cases, the skin tag may even fall off naturally after the blood supply is cut off, though this process can be painful.
When skin tags become irritated or damaged, bacteria can enter, causing infection. Signs of an infected skin tag include:
Infected skin tags require proper medical attention, as described in the treatment section at The Minor Surgery Center's clinic.
Hormonal fluctuations can influence skin tag growth. People may notice skin tags growing larger during:
Research suggests that insulin resistance and elevated growth factor levels may contribute to skin tag development and enlargement.
While uncommon, a rapidly growing or painful "skin tag" might not be a skin tag at all. Other conditions that can mimic skin tags include:
This underscores the importance of professional evaluation when skin growths change significantly or cause pain.
When experiencing a skin tag getting bigger and hurts, proper diagnosis is essential before treatment. Self-diagnosis can be risky, as what appears to be a skin tag might be another condition requiring different management.
Medical attention is warranted when a skin tag:
The medical team at The Minor Surgery Center specializes in evaluating and treating problematic skin growths with precision and care.
A healthcare provider will typically:
In some cases, if there's uncertainty about the diagnosis, the doctor might recommend:
This thorough approach ensures appropriate treatment and rules out more serious conditions.
When a skin tag gets bigger and hurts, several treatment approaches may be considered, depending on the underlying cause of the pain and enlargement.
Medical professionals offer several effective removal techniques:
Cutting the skin tag off with surgical scissors or a scalpel:
Freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen:
Using electric current to burn off the skin tag:
Tying off the skin tag at its base:
The specialists at The Minor Surgery Center offer all these removal options, tailoring the approach to each patient's specific needs and the characteristics of their skin tags.
If infection is causing a skin tag to become painful and enlarged, treatment focuses first on addressing the infection:
While awaiting medical treatment, these measures can help manage discomfort:
IMPORTANT: Never attempt to remove a skin tag at home, especially one that is painful or enlarged. This can lead to bleeding, infection, and scarring.
For more detailed information about skin tag treatments, visit The Minor Surgery Center's FAQ page.
When dealing with a skin tag getting bigger and hurts, inappropriate management can lead to complications:
Self-removal attempts using methods found online can result in:
Neglecting a changing skin tag can lead to:
While not all skin tag complications can be prevented, these measures may help reduce the risk of a skin tag getting bigger and hurts:
For those with recurrent skin tags, regular dermatology check-ups may be beneficial for early intervention.
In some cases, multiple or rapidly growing skin tags may be associated with underlying health conditions:
If experiencing numerous skin tags along with other health symptoms, a comprehensive medical evaluation is recommended. The medical team at The Minor Surgery Center can provide guidance on when further testing may be warranted.
True skin tags rarely become cancerous. However, what appears to be a skin tag may sometimes be another type of growth. Any skin growth that changes rapidly, bleeds easily, or has irregular coloring should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Skin tags contain blood vessels. When they grow larger, these vessels expand. Trauma or twisting can rupture these vessels, causing bleeding. Persistent or spontaneous bleeding requires medical attention.
Most skin tag removals are quick outpatient procedures lasting 5-15 minutes. However, if the skin tag is infected, the doctor might treat the infection first before removal.
Insurance coverage varies. When skin tags cause pain, bleeding, or show suspicious changes, removal is more likely to be covered as medically necessary rather than cosmetic. Check with your insurance provider and discuss documentation needs with your healthcare provider.
Yes, hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause existing skin tags to grow and potentially become irritated or painful. These changes typically resolve after pregnancy, but painful skin tags should still be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
For more answers to common questions about skin tags and their treatment, visit The Minor Surgery Center's FAQ page.
While most skin tag issues are not emergencies, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention:
When a skin tag gets bigger and hurts, it deserves proper medical attention. While most skin tags remain harmless, changes in size and the onset of pain may signal complications requiring treatment. Professional evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
The specialists at The Minor Surgery Center provide expert care for all skin growths, including problematic skin tags. Their comprehensive approach includes thorough diagnosis, effective treatment options, and proper follow-up care.
For concerns about changing skin tags or to schedule a consultation, contact The Minor Surgery Center to speak with their experienced medical team. Remember that early intervention often leads to simpler treatment and better outcomes when dealing with skin growths that change in concerning ways.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For more information about our privacy practices, please review our Privacy Policy.
