Are Skin Tags a Sign of Diabetes? Causes & Prevention | Kosmoderma

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Are Skin Tags a Sign of Diabetes? | Kosmoderma

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Learn if skin tags could signal insulin resistance or diabetes. Understand the causes, prevention, and safe removal options with Kosmoderma’s expert dermatologists.

Ever noticed small, soft, skin-colored growths on your neck, underarms, or eyelids and wondered what they mean? These are called skin tags, and while they’re often harmless, multiple or recurring skin tags can sometimes signal underlying health issues—like insulin resistance or Type 2 diabetes.

In this blog, we’ll explore what skin tags are, why they form, if they’re really connected to diabetes, and how you can manage or prevent them.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, or acrochordons, are small, benign skin growths that often appear in skin folds where friction is common, like the neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts.

They are:

• Usually painless
• Soft to the touch
• Flesh-coloured or slightly darker
• 1–5 mm in size, though they can grow larger
• They’re common in both men and women, especially after the age of 30.

Are Skin Tags a Sign of Diabetes?

Here’s the truth: Skin tags are not a definitive sign of diabetes, but they can be a visible marker of insulin resistance, which is a precursor to Type 2 diabetes.

Several studies show that people with multiple skin tags may have:

• Elevated blood sugar levels
• Higher insulin levels
• Metabolic syndrome

This is especially true if skin tags are increasing in number over time.

Important: Having skin tags doesn’t mean you have diabetes. But if you have many of them, especially along with obesity or family history, it’s wise to consult your doctor and get screened.

Other Common Causes of Skin Tags

While diabetes-related insulin resistance is one trigger, other factors include:

• Friction: From clothing, skin folds, or jewelry
• Hormonal changes: During pregnancy or menopause
• Genetics: Family history of skin tags
• Obesity: Increased skin folds = more friction
• Aging: More common after 40
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Some links reported in studies

How to Prevent Skin Tags?

You can’t always prevent them, but you can lower your chances by managing risk factors:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight
• Less friction, less chance of tags
• Control Blood Sugar Levels
• Especially if you’re prediabetes or insulin resistant
• Wear Loose, Breathable Clothing
• Reduces rubbing and irritation
• Keep Skin Dry in Folds
• Use powders or barrier creams
• See a Dermatologist
• For recurring skin tags or cosmetic removal

Treatment Options at Kosmoderma

At Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Body Clinics, we offer safe and effective skin tag removal options:

1. Radiofrequency 

Quick, non-invasive, and leaves minimal scarring

2. Laser Removal

Ideal for facial or sensitive areas

3. Cryotherapy

Freezing technique for smaller tags

All procedures are done under sterile conditions by experienced dermatologists. Recovery time is minimal, and recurrence is rare when underlying causes are managed.

FAQs

1) Can skin tags go away on their own?

No, they typically stay unless professionally removed.

2) Should I be worried if I have a lot of skin tags?

Not necessarily, but it’s worth checking your blood sugar levels.

3) Is skin tag removal painful?

Most treatments involve minimal discomfort, and numbing cream is used.

4) Can I remove skin tags at home?

DIY methods can lead to infection or scarring. Always consult a dermatologist.

Final Takeaway

While skin tags are usually harmless, they can occasionally hint at underlying health concerns like insulin resistance. If you’re noticing more skin tags or have a family history of diabetes, a quick blood sugar check and a consultation with a dermatologist can give you clarity.

Book your FREE skin screening and tag removal consultation at Kosmoderma today. Smooth, healthy skin is just one visit away!