The sudden appearance of skin tags can be caused by several factors. Skin tags are benign, small, soft growths that typically form where skin experiences friction, such as the neck, underarms, groin, or eyelids. Common reasons for sudden skin tags include:

• Increased friction or rubbing of skin against skin, clothing, or jewelry.
• Hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy or due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome.
• Metabolic factors including obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, which are associated with higher likelihood of skin tags.
• Genetic predisposition, as skin tags tend to run in families.
• Age-related skin changes.
• Possible links to human papillomavirus (HPV) have been suggested but are not fully confirmed.

If skin tags are appearing suddenly and in large numbers, it may signal underlying health conditions like insulin resistance, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances. In such cases, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Skin tags are usually harmless but should be monitored for changes in color, size, or if they become painful or bleed, which could warrant medical evaluation. Safe removal options include professional treatments such as cryotherapy (freezing), excision, or electrocautery performed by a dermatologist to avoid infection or scarring. This combination of friction, hormonal and metabolic factors, and genetics contributes to the sudden development of skin tags.