According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), skin tags--small extra skin growths--are a common occurrence, particularly in older adults. A skin tag that bleeds has no specific name, other than a bleeding skin tag.

Why Skin Tags Bleed

According to the NIH, the outer layer of skin, known as the epidermis, thins as we age. Since skin tags form as we age and this top layer of the skin is thinning, it is likely that a skin tag will contain some of the second layer of the skin, known as the dermis. The dermis contains blood vessels, so when a skin tag is torn or cut, it can bleed.

Location Is a Factor

A skin tag that is on a part of the skin that is constantly rubbed or irritated by clothing is more likely to tear than one that is on the part of the skin that has less contact. For example, a skin tag on the neck may become irritated or bleed because of constant contact with the collars of clothing.

Are Bleeding Skin Tags Dangerous?

Skin tags are harmless and won't develop into anything more serious. Although a bleeding skin tag may cause alarm, it can be stopped by something as simple as applying a small bandage, according to the University of Michigan Health System.

Treatment

According to the NIH, skin tags can be easily removed by a doctor. There are several different methods for removal, including freezing, cutting or burning the skin tags off.

Recurrence

A skin tag that has been removed will not grow back, but it is possible that new skin tags will appear in the same area or in other areas of the body, as reported by the NIH.

Source:

National Institutes of Health: Cutaneous Skin Tags

University of Michigan: Skin Tags

National Institutes of Health: Aging Changes in Skin

More Information:

New Mechanical Device for Effective Removal of Skin Tags in Routine Health Care