Hi everyone, I’m Michelle! I’ve recently noticed a couple of small, fleshy growths on my neck and near my armpits. I’m pretty sure they’re skin tags, and while they don’t hurt, they’re starting to bother me. I’m just beginning my research and was wondering if anyone knows what actually causes these? Is it just a friction thing? Also, I’m curious about how people usually get them removed. Do you go to a professional, or are there safe ways to handle it at home? I’d love to hear your experiences before I decide what to do!
Hi Michelle, welcome to the community! I’ve dealt with a few of these myself over the years, and they can definitely be annoying.
To answer your question, you’re spot on about the friction—they tend to pop up where skin rubs against skin or clothing, which is why the neck and armpits are such common spots. Genetics and weight fluctuations often play a role, too.
Personally, I’ve always opted to have them removed by a dermatologist. I know there are plenty of “at-home” kits online, but I’ve always been too nervous about the risk of infection or scarring to try those myself. It’s a super quick, routine procedure in the office. I’d highly recommend booking a consultation with a board-certified provider just to be safe and ensure they’re actually skin tags before doing anything! Good luck!
sounds like you’re dealing with some pesky skin tags! have you noticed if they’re changing at all, or are they pretty consistent? I’ve had a few myself, and they seemed to pop up more when I was a bit stressed. It’s interesting how our bodies react to things, right?
I get those around my neck too from clothing friction
some say apple cider vinegar helps with them but I tried it and it just irritated my skin a bit so be careful if you want to try that at home
I used those little adhesive patches that cut off the circulation and they worked fine for the smaller ones. You just have to be patient because it takes about a week for them to actually drop off.
Friction’s a factor, I’ve got them too.
Skin tags can be such little nuisances, can’t they? I had a couple of them crop up in my mid-60s, mainly near my neck and under my arms, just like you mentioned. Friction is definitely a big player in their formation, but I’ve heard that metabolic factors and even hormonal changes can also contribute. It’s like our skin has its own secret life we didn’t sign up for! 
When I went to a dermatologist to have mine checked, I was in and out in about 15 minutes. It’s a super simple procedure, usually done with a pair of scissors or a laser, and they numbed the area beforehand. I think it cost me around $100 for each tag. Worth it to get rid of those pesky reminders of my skin adventures! If you’re considering a professional, don’t hesitate to ask them about the exact method they use and what to expect afterward.
As for those at-home remedies, I totally understand the temptation. I’ve seen those adhesive patches too, and they can work for some folks, but like Jessica mentioned, you want to be cautious with anything that could irritate your skin. If you go that route, just be prepared for a waiting game. Give it a week or so to see results. Have you thought about what you’ll do if you decide to get them removed? I find a good consultation helps ease the nerves! 
I’ve always wondered if skin tags could be linked to hormonal changes or menopause since mine seemed to appear more around my neck and chest after I hit my early 50s. I’ve had a few removed professionally and honestly, it’s so quick and painless I don’t mind paying the $100 or so each time. Sometimes I think about trying to remove one myself, but I’d be too nervous about messing it up or causing an infection
Mine showed up after some serious weight loss, definitely a friction issue for me too.