Understanding Skin Tags Around the Eyes
Skin tags are small, soft, skin-colored growths that hang from the surface of the skin on a tiny stalk. Medically known as acrochordons, skin tags are extremely common and can develop on most areas of the body. However, skin tags around the eyes tend to be more noticeable and concerning for many people.
Skin tags themselves are harmless - they don't spread or increase a person's risk of skin cancer. But they can become irritated or infected if rubbed frequently. Skin tags may also bleed if they're knocked or pulled on. For these reasons, skin tags around the delicate eye area can cause discomfort, pain, or irritation.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll discuss the common causes of skin tags around the eyes, symptoms to watch for, when to see a doctor, and the various treatment options available to safely and effectively remove eye skin tags.
What Causes Skin Tags Around the Eyes?
Doctors don't know exactly why skin tags develop, but they appear to occur from skin rubbing together or skin growths getting "snagged" on clothing or jewelry. Some common causes and risk factors for developing skin tags around the eyes include:
Friction from the Eyelids
The thin, fragile skin around the eyes is constantly moving during blinking, squinting, or rubbing. This repeated friction can trigger skin irritation and the formation of skin tags around the eyelids or under the eyes.
Middle Age
Skin tags tend to appear in middle age, usually after age 30. Hormonal changes, weight gain, and natural aging of the skin are thought to increase skin tag growth around this time.
Obesity
People who are obese or overweight have a higher risk of developing skin tags in folds and creases of the skin. The area around the eyes often has excess skin that can rub together.
Diabetes
High blood sugar levels in people with diabetes makes their skin more susceptible to skin tags. Keeping blood sugar under control can help minimize skin tag growth.
Pregnancy
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy cause changes in the skin that can lead to skin tag development, including around the eyes. Most will disappear after giving birth.
Genetics
Some people seem prone to developing skin tags. If your parents or siblings have them, you're more likely to get them too.
Signs and Symptoms of Skin Tags Around the Eyes
Skin tags themselves are usually not painful. But skin tags near the eyes may cause irritation, discomfort, or other issues. Signs and symptoms to watch for include:
Appearance
- Small, soft growths on the skin, ranging from 2mm to 5mm
- Pedunculated (attached by a stalk)
- Same color as surrounding skin or slightly darker
Location
- Along the upper or lower eyelid margins
- Under eyes or on lower eyelids
- Outer corners of the eyes
Sensation
- Asymptomatic in most cases
- May feel like a bump on the eyelid
- Mild irritation, tenderness or itching
Complications
- Chronic irritation or inflammation from rubbing
- Accidental removal leading to bleeding
- Infection if skin tag is repeatedly scratched or picked at
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, skin tags around the eyes do not require medical treatment. But it's a good idea to have them examined by your doctor or an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) to confirm they are benign skin tags and not another growth.
You should see a doctor promptly if the skin tag:
- Bleeds frequently
- Becomes irritated, swollen or inflamed
- Changes appearance or texture
- Causes significant discomfort or vision issues
- Obstructs the tear drainage system
Skin tags near the eyes should not be removed at home. Seeking professional medical treatment can prevent scarring or damage to the thin eyelid skin.
Treatment Options for Skin Tags Around the Eyes
Several treatment options exist for removing skin tags around the eyes. The best method depends on factors like the size and location of the skin tag, your medical history, pain tolerance, and cosmetic outcome.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy (freezing) is a fast, easy way to remove skin tags on the eyelids or around the eyes. Liquid nitrogen is applied directly to the skin tag, freezing and destroying the extra skin cells. The dead skin tag will shrivel up and fall off within 1-2 weeks.
Cauterization
Cauterization involves burning off the skin tag with a heated probe, chemical solution, or hyfrecator instrument. It usually doesn't require anesthesia and leaves little scarring.
Excision
Surgical excision cuts the skin tag off completely with small scissors or a scalpel. This method is done under local anesthesia and prevents regrowth. It has the best cosmetic results but highest risk of scarring.
Laser Removal
Laser removal directs a high-intensity light beam at the skin tag to destroy blood vessels feeding it. Several treatments may be required. Lasers minimize scarring risk around the eyes.
Electrosurgery
Electrosurgery destroys skin tags by burning and desiccating the stalk with electrical current. Local anesthesia is needed to numb the eyelids. Resurfacing treatments can improve any scarring.
Home Remedies and Prevention Tips
While home remedies won't eliminate existing eye skin tags, you can help prevent new ones from developing:
- Gently clean the eyelid area daily
- Moisturize skin around eyes to keep it supple
- Avoid excessive eye rubbing and irritation
- Wear UV sun protection to limit sun damage
- Remove eye makeup thoroughly each night
- Lose weight if overweight
- Control blood sugar levels if diabetic
When to Worry About Eye Skin Tags
Skin tags around the eyes are extremely common, especially as we age. In most cases they're more an annoyance or cosmetic concern than a medical problem. However, you should make an appointment with your doctor promptly if the skin tag:
- Bleeds often
- Becomes red, inflamed, or tender
- Changes size, color or texture
- Starts causing vision changes or discomfort
- Obstructs the tear ducts
Skin tags around the eyes rarely indicate anything serious. But it's important to monitor them closely and point out any changes or issues to your eye doctor.
The Bottom Line on Eye Skin Tags
Growths and bumps around the delicate eye area can be worrying, but skin tags around the eyes are very common. They occur due to skin irritation, aging, obesity, and other factors. Skin tags may be unsightly and irritating but are harmless.
However, leaving eye skin tags untreated isn’t advisable either. Seeking professional removal is preferred to prevent infection, bleeding, or scarring issues. Several effective medical procedures can remove eyelid skin tags safely with minimal discomfort or downtime.
With the right dermatologic or ophthalmic care, skin tags can be eradicated before they impact your eye health or appearance. Don’t hesitate to bring up these benign growths with your physician so you can enjoy clear, smooth skin around your eyes.
FAQs
Are skin tags around the eyes dangerous?
No, skin tags around the eyes are harmless growths and generally not dangerous. But they can become irritated or infected if scratched or picked at.
Do skin tags on the eyelids go away on their own?
Some small skin tags may disappear over time, but most will persist once formed. Seeking medical treatment is recommended for removing skin tags around the sensitive eye area.
How can I prevent skin tags from forming around my eyes?
You can help prevent new skin tags from developing by keeping the eye area clean, moisturized, and protected from sun damage. Avoid excessive rubbing of the eyes as well.
How fast can skin tags be removed from the eyelids?
Methods like cryotherapy can remove eye skin tags within just a few minutes during an office visit. The dead skin tag will then shed off over the next 1-2 weeks.
Will I have a scar if a skin tag is removed from my eyelid?
Most skin tag removal techniques are designed to minimize scarring around the delicate eye area. But any method that breaks the skin does pose a small scar risk.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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