Skin tags and skin lesions are different skin abnormalities, and they can be distinguished by their characteristics and underlying causes

1. Skin Tags:

   • Appearance: Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths that typically hang off the skin. They often look like a small piece of skin attached by a thin stalk or peduncle.
   • Texture: They are usually smooth and soft to the touch.
   • Location: Skin tags are commonly found in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
   • Causes: The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but they often develop in areas with friction and are more common in overweight individuals or those with diabetes.
   • Treatment: Skin tags are generally benign and can be removed for cosmetic reasons. Removal methods include cutting, freezing, or cauterizing by a healthcare provider.
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   Skin Lesions:

   • Appearance: Skin lesions are a broad category that includes any abnormal area or change in the skin’s color, texture, or structure. They can be flat, raised, discolored, or textured differently than the surrounding skin.
   • Texture: Skin lesions can vary in texture depending on their type and cause. They may be rough, scaly, blistered, raised, or flat.
   • Location: Skin lesions can appear anywhere on the body and can result from various causes, including infections, inflammation, allergic reactions, trauma, or underlying medical conditions.
   • Causes: Skin lesions can have a wide range of causes, including infections (such as warts or herpes), skin conditions (like psoriasis or eczema), moles, birthmarks, or skin cancer (such as melanoma or basal cell carcinoma).
   • Treatment: Treatment for skin lesions depends on the underlying cause. Some may resolve on their own, while others may require medical attention, including topical treatments, oral medications, surgical removal, or other interventions.

In summary, skin tags are small, soft growths that typically hang off the skin’s surface and are often found in areas of friction, while skin lesions are a broader category that includes various skin abnormalities with different causes, appearances, and textures. If you have any concerns about a skin abnormality, it’s advisable to consult Houston’s Foot Doc Sherman Nagler for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.