What Is a Skin Tag?

Skin tags develop when skin rubs against skin or clothing, creating friction and minor irritation over time. In the anal area, they can appear after swelling or stretching of the skin - often following hemorrhoids, fissures, or inflammation. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or chronic constipation can also contribute to their development.

Anal skin tags are sometimes the leftover stretched skin from a healed external hemorrhoid. Once the swelling goes down, the excess tissue remains, forming a small flap.

Anal skin tags usually don’t cause pain, but they can be bothersome. Typical symptoms include:

• A soft, flesh-colored flap or bump near the anus
• Mild irritation or itching after wiping or sweating
• Difficulty cleaning the area fully after bowel movements
• Occasional inflammation, especially if the tag is pulled or irritated

If a skin tag becomes inflamed, it can swell and feel more noticeable, but it rarely poses any medical risk.

A proctologist can easily identify a skin tag during a brief exam. It’s important to have any new anal lump checked to ensure it isn’t something else, like a hemorrhoid, wart, or fissure.

Most skin tags don’t require removal unless they cause discomfort or hygiene issues. However, for those that do:

• In-office removal - A simple, quick, and virtually painless procedure under local anesthesia can remove the tag entirely.
• Aftercare - Healing usually takes just a few days, with mild soreness managed by simple care routines.

Self-removal methods should be avoided - they can cause infection or scarring.

If you notice a lump around your anus or are unsure whether it’s a hemorrhoid or skin tag, a proctologist can provide clarity and peace of mind. Even though skin tags are harmless, professional removal is the safest and most comfortable option for lasting relief and confidence.

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