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Researchers have yet to fully understand the fleshy outgrowths known as skin tags, but this odd yet harmless phenomenon seems to correspond to certain medical conditions or the aging process.
Definition
Medical News Today describes skin tags as small growths that may rise from the skin on a kind of stalk known as a peduncle. These harmless growths occur in about 46 percent of the general population.
Genetics and Age
According to SkinTagHelp.com, people with skin tags have a tendency to pass on this characteristic to their children, implying a genetic factor in skin tag development. Aging may also trigger skin tags.
Weight
Obese people have an added risk for skin tags---SkinTagHelp.com speculates that skin tags grow when skin rubs against skin.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy seems to initiate skin tag growth, according to SkinTagHelp.com. These skin tags appear under the arms, between the breasts or on the neck, but they eventually vanish after delivery.
Other Causes
Any condition or situation that causes skin surfaces to rub together can cause skin tags. Medical News Today adds that hormonal changes, the human papilloma virus or even steroids may lead to skin tags.
Source:
MedicalNewsToday.com: What Are Skin Tags? What Causes Skin Tags?
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