Skin tags are small, benign skin growths that typically develop where skin rubs against skin or clothing. The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to their formation:

• Friction: Skin tags commonly appear in areas where skin folds or rubs together, such as armpits, neck, eyelids, groin, and under the breasts

• Overweight and Obesity: Excess body weight increases skin folds and friction, making skin tags more likely to develop

• Age: Skin tags become more common with age, especially after the fourth decade of life, as part of the normal aging process and loss of skin elasticity

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy or due to sex-steroid imbalances (e.g., elevated estrogen and progesterone), can promote skin tag growth

• Medical Conditions: Skin tags are more frequent in people with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and abnormal lipid profiles

• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of skin tags can increase the likelihood of developing them

• Possible Viral Link: Some studies suggest a correlation between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and skin tags, though this is not definitively established

In summary, skin tags are primarily caused by skin friction combined with factors like aging, obesity, hormonal changes, certain health conditions, and genetics. They are harmless and do not require medical treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concern