THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WARTS AND TAGS ON SKIN


Skin tags are fleshy growths that protrude from the skin in either a flat, flushed shape or dangling from a peduncle. They are typically the same color as your skin, or slightly darker. Referred to in the scientific community as acrochordon, tags appear within armpits, on eyelids and even in the genital area. Although they may appear alarming, they are simply excessive skin growth formed into a flap.

What Are Warts?

Unlike skin tags, warts are contagious. Exposure to a wart, such as through sexual contact, can cause new warts to form. They do not dangle like skin tags, but have a cylindrical shape with pink or white hues. They can even appear in clumps, resembling cauliflowers, on the skin. Although they are unsightly, warts are not particularly painful, unless they are irritated through chafing, including genital warts.

What Causes Each Condition?

Skin tags often appear on people entering middle age, but they can develop at any time if you have a genetic history of their presence. Along with aging factors, other causes of skin tags include pregnancy, obesity and diabetes.

Anal skin tags may have more dramatic causes. Many of these skin tags are part of an anal medical issue, including anal fissures or hemorrhoids. If you just started developing them without any prior history of their occurrence, visit your doctor for a checkup. It is possible that an underlying digestive issue is causing the tags.

Warts, in contrast, are caused by a virus, namely HPV, or Human Papillomavirus. This virus is spread through skin contact, especially during sexual intercourse. Because the virus is contagious, it is best to treat the warts when they appear to avoid spreading the virus.


What Non-Invasive Treatments Are Available?

Once you see skin tags or warts appear, you can treat them at home with a natural formula which will not cause any pain, burning or scarring and si safe for sensitive skin. 
With consistent use, you should notice the growths slowly declining in size. You should feel no pain or burning with oil use, making it safe for sensitive skin. For severe growths, doctors can prescribe medications that specifically target tags and warts, but removal is often the best solution.

Are Invasive Treatments Possible?

Both warts and skin tags can be removed through surgery, but most medical insurance companies will not cover the expenses. Excision under anesthesia is a typical route for wart and tag removal. Anesthesia strategies vary. For severe outbreaks, you may need a general anesthesia, but smaller outbreaks only require local anesthesia.

You may want to opt for a laser surgery, especially if the growth is in a conspicuous area, including the face or neck. Lasers create a smooth surface that makes it hard to believe that a growth was there in the first place. Alternatively, select cryotherapy. Liquid nitrogen quickly eliminates the growth, giving you freedom from painful chafing, especially in the groin area. Discuss your options with your doctor to find the best solution for you.

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