Millions of people are dealing with issues associated with skin irritation. Skin problems associated to inflammation can cause unsightly growths known as tags. Skin tags are benign dermal tissue problems that can appear in a variety of different locations on the skin. In most instances, you’ll find that these are not severe, or cancerous. In extreme cases, you’ll find that some skin irritation can cause more than just visual problems, as they can be further inflamed by scratching them, or if dermal tissue rubs against them.
The Root Causes of Skin Tags
Before getting into the treatment of this skin issue, you’ll find that root causes can be related to a variety of different maladies. In most instances, it’s a matter of weight gain. Whether due to obesity or pregnancy, when the body gains weight skin stretches and there are creases, folds, and other elements that rub against each other. When heat and sweat get trapped in various locations of skin creases, tags will erupt in those areas. There can be one or several raised as a result.
In other instances, the problems associated with this skin irritation can be a result of diabetes, steroid use, heredity, and other problems that require a professional diagnosis. A doctor can figure out whether or not the tags on the body are the result of a severe condition, or if it’s just a matter of irritation on the skin. When the issue is a deeper problem, medication will be administered to treat the root cause, rather than just the skin cells themselves.
Prescription Medications For Skin Tags
When you visit a dermatologist, you’ll find that they will administer one of several solutions. If the goal is to remove the tags immediately, they’ll focus on removing them in the office. They’ll either lance them, freeze them, or they will use a laser to remove them. If the doctor doesn’t deem the issue too problematic, they may offer a prescription based solution. Retin A, for instance, is commonly administered to those suffering from acne problems. This prescription medication dries out the skin, and then allows the tag to fall off naturally. Other medications can be administered, including prescription strength hemorrhoidal creams, and gels that are applied directly to the tags themselves. Within a few days, the cells will dry out and fall away. Prescription medication can in fact help skin tags, but it may not prevent them from coming back.
An Ounce of Prevention
To prevent tags from forming, it’s recommended that people lose weight. Obesity is one of the leading cause for this irritation issue. Aside from weight loss, avoiding harsh detergents, jewelry, and tight-fitting clothing. These can all exasperate issues and lead to having skin tags return. To ensure that these do not come back, prescription medications can be applied, alongside with some minor lifestyle changes. If they do not leave, or there’s further problems, a dermatologist can recommend a different medication or solution moving forward. Either way, prescription medications are good for this issue, including Retin A.