Skin tags and moles are common skin growths that many people experience at some point in their lives. While most are harmless, some can pose health risks, especially in countries like Australia, where high UV exposure increases the risk of skin cancer. This article explores whether skin tags and moles are dangerous, when to seek medical attention, and how to manage them safely.


  1. Understanding Skin Tags

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags (acrochordons) are small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths that hang off the skin. They commonly appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as:

Are Skin Tags Dangerous?

When to See a Doctor


  1. Understanding Moles

What Are Moles?

Moles (nevi) are clusters of pigmented cells (melanocytes). They can be:

Are Moles Dangerous?

Most moles are harmless, but some can develop into melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. Australia has one of the highest rates of melanoma due to intense UV exposure.

ABCDE Warning Signs for Dangerous Moles

A – Asymmetry

B – Border

C – Color

D – Diameter

E – Evolution

Additional warning signs include:

Remember: In Australia’s high UV environment, any changing mole should be checked by a doctor immediately, even if it doesn’t perfectly match the ABCDE criteria. Early detection is crucial for successful melanoma treatment.

When to See a Doctor


  1. Skin Tags vs. Moles: Key Differences

 

 

Appearance

  • Skin Tags: Soft, hanging growths that are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker.
  • Moles: Flat or raised spots that can be brown, black, pink, or skin-toned.

Color

  • Skin Tags: Usually match the surrounding skin or may be slightly darker.
  • Moles: Can range from light tan to dark brown/black, sometimes pink or red.

Texture

  • Skin Tags: Smooth, sometimes wrinkled surface that hangs from a small stalk.
  • Moles: May be smooth or rough; can be flat or dome-shaped.

Cancer Risk

  • Skin Tags: Completely benign with zero cancer risk.
  • Moles: Mostly harmless but some may develop into melanoma (especially in Australia).

Common Locations

  • Skin Tags: Areas with friction – neck, armpits, groin, under breasts, eyelids.
  • Moles: Anywhere on the body, frequently on sun-exposed areas like face, arms, legs and back.

Development

  • Skin Tags: Often appear in adulthood, especially with weight gain or hormonal changes.
  • Moles: Can be present at birth or develop throughout life; new moles after 30 need checking.

Removal Considerations

  • Skin Tags: Removed only if irritated or for cosmetic reasons.
  • Moles: Should be removed if showing suspicious changes or at high risk of melanoma.

Sun Connection

  • Skin Tags: Not related to sun exposure.
  • Moles: Sun exposure increases mole count and melanoma risk (critical in Australia).

 


  1. Risk Factors in Australia

Australia has extreme UV levels, increasing skin cancer risks. Key factors:

Prevention Tips


  1. Removal Options in Australia

Skin Tag Removal

  1. Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
  2. Cauterization (burning off)
  3. Surgical removal (scissors/scalpel)
  4. Ligation (tying off blood supply)

Does Medicare cover it?

Mole Removal

  1. Shave excision (for raised moles)
  2. Punch biopsy (for deeper moles)
  3. Surgical excision (if cancer is suspected)

Does Medicare cover it?


  1. Myths vs. Facts

❌ Myth: Cutting off a skin tag at home is safe.
✅ Fact: DIY removal can cause infection—see a professional.

❌ Myth: Only dark moles are dangerous.
✅ Fact: Even pink/red moles can be cancerous.

❌ Myth: Skin tags can turn into cancer.
✅ Fact: They are always benign.


  1. When to Worry: Emergency Signs

Seek immediate medical help if:

At Medix Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of professional skin and cosmetic treatments in Melbourne, tailored to your unique needs. Our services include effective acne scarring treatment in Melbourne, advanced scar treatment in Melbourne, and cutting-edge radio frequency microneedling in Melbourne to stimulate skin repair and regeneration. We also specialise in skin needling in Melbourne, non-surgical skin tightening in Melbourne, and safe skin tag and mole removal in Melbourne.

For pigmentation concerns, we provide precise pigmentation removal in Melbourne, helping you achieve a more even skin tone. To restore your skin’s natural radiance, our expert skin rejuvenation treatments in Melbourne are designed to revitalise and refresh. Additionally, enhance your smile with our professional LED teeth whitening in Melbourne, delivering safe and noticeable results.

At Medix, our goal is to deliver visible outcomes using evidence-based technologies, ensuring you feel confident in your skin.