A skin tag is a common, acquired benign skin growth that looks like a small piece of hanging skin. Skin tags are often described as bits of skin- or flesh-colored tissue that projects from the surrounding skin from a small, narrow stalk. They typically occur in characteristic locations including the neck, underarms, eyelids, and under the breasts (especially where underwire bras rub directly beneath the breasts).

Cutaneous tags are very common benign skin growths that occur most often after midlife. The tags stick out of the skin, and may have a small narrow stalk connecting the skin bump to the surface of the skin. Cutaneous tags are usually painless and do not grow or change. However, they may be irritated from rubbing by clothing or other materials. Cutaneous skin tags are more common in people who are overweight or who have diabetes.

Most typical small skin tags may be removed without sending tissue for microscopic examination. However, there are some larger or atypical growths that may be removed and sent to a pathologist for examination under a microscope to make sure that the tissue is really a tag and nothing more. Additionally, skin bumps that have bled or rapidly changed may also need pathologic examination.

A skin tag is a common, benign condition which consists 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.

Small tag of skin that may have a stalk (a peduncle). Skin tags may appear on the skin almost anywhere although the favorite locales are the eyelids, neck, armpits (axillae), upper chest, and groin. Invariably benign, this tiny tumor of the skin usually causes no symptoms unless repeatedly irritated as, for example, by the collar. Treatment may be done by freezing with liquid nitrogen or by cutting off with a scalpel or scissors if the skin tag is irritating or cosmetically unwanted.

Getting rid of skin tags with a scalpel or scissors is a common and easy way to get rid of skin tags at home. Make sure the blade you use is sharp and sanitized (use an open flame, rubbing alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide), and cut as quickly and closely to the healthy skin as you can. Some bleeding may occur, but shouldn't last for more than a minute.

Skin tags can cause itching and irritation, especially if the skin tag is in a place where it is likely to rub against another part of the body or against clothes. In these circumstances, the friction from rubbing against clothes or another part of the body causes the skin to become irritated and itchy. Whilst skin tags are not a serious health problem, they can be a cause of annoyance, especially if they are on the eyelids and interfere when blinking. They can also be a cause of anxiety and embarrassment, especially if they are visible and located on the face, eyelids or neck areas. It is for this reason that many people have skin tags removed.