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If you’ve ever noticed a tiny, soft bump on your eyelid, you might be wondering, What on earth is that? Chances are, it’s a skin tag. While eyelid skin tags are pretty common, they can feel a bit annoying—especially when they get in the way of makeup or even make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! These little growths are harmless, and the good news is that there are easy ways to get rid of them if you choose to.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about eyelid skin tags: why they happen, how to treat them, and the best ways to remove them safely.
What Are Eyelid Skin Tags?
First things first: What exactly is a skin tag? A skin tag (or acrochordon, if you want to get technical) is basically just a small, soft growth of skin that’s connected to the skin by a tiny stalk. They’re typically flesh-colored or a little darker and can be found almost anywhere on your body where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
When it comes to eyelid skin tags, they tend to show up on the upper or lower eyelids and can be a little more noticeable because of their location. Although they’re usually harmless and don’t cause pain or discomfort, they can be irritating—especially if they catch on your glasses, makeup brushes, or even when you blink.
What Causes Eyelid Skin Tags?
Now, you might be wondering, Why did I get one of these on my eyelid? There’s actually no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some of the most common reasons why skin tags develop:
1. Friction
The skin around your eyes is delicate, and things like rubbing your eyes, blinking, or even wearing glasses can create friction. Over time, that friction can cause the skin to form a skin tag, especially in spots where skin rubs against skin or other surfaces.
2. Aging
Unfortunately, as we get older, our skin loses some of its elasticity and becomes looser. This makes older adults more likely to develop skin tags, especially around areas where skin folds, like the eyelids.
3. Genetics
Got a parent or sibling who has skin tags? You might be more likely to get them, too. Skin tags can run in families, so if you’ve noticed a pattern in your family, it could be genetic.
4. Hormonal Changes
Women going through pregnancy or people with certain conditions, like diabetes, often experience changes in their hormone levels that could trigger skin tag growth. Pregnancy, in particular, is known for increasing skin tags due to those wild hormonal fluctuations.
5. Obesity
Extra weight can create more friction between skin folds, and the eyelids aren’t immune. Being overweight or obese can make skin tags more likely, especially in areas where skin rubs together.
6. Diabetes
People with diabetes—especially those with higher blood sugar levels—are more likely to develop skin tags. That’s because insulin resistance can affect how your skin reacts.
Treatment Options for Eyelid Skin Tags
While skin tags are usually benign and harmless, we get it—sometimes you just want them gone, especially when they’re on your face. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help you do just that.
1. Home Removal Methods: Use with Caution
Okay, let’s start with the disclaimer: It’s generally not a good idea to remove skin tags from your eyelids at home. The skin around your eyes is super delicate, and you don’t want to risk injury or infection. However, some people do try at-home methods (so we’ll mention them—just proceed with caution):
- Dental Floss Method: This involves tying dental floss around the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply. The idea is that the skin tag will fall off on its own after a few days. While this method might work for some people on other body parts, don’t attempt it near your eyes!
- Over-the-Counter Removal Kits: These kits often use freezing or acids to remove skin tags. While they may work on other areas of the body, we recommend talking to a professional before trying any of these methods on your eyelids, as they could cause irritation or damage to the sensitive skin around your eyes.
2. Visit a Dermatologist or Specialist
If you’re tired of your eyelid skin tag or it’s bothering you, the safest and most effective option is to see a dermatologist or a skin care professional. They can remove the skin tag quickly, safely, and with minimal risk of scarring or complications. Some of the most common professional removal methods include:
- Cryotherapy (Freezing): This involves applying liquid nitrogen to the skin tag to freeze it off. It’s quick and relatively painless, though there may be some mild discomfort for a few seconds.
- Excision: In this procedure, a doctor will use a small surgical tool to remove the skin tag. It’s done with local anesthesia, so you won’t feel anything. This is a great option for larger skin tags or if you want a permanent solution.
- Electrocautery (Burning): This method uses a heated electric probe to burn off the skin tag. It’s fast and effective, and usually leaves no noticeable scars when performed by a professional.
3. Laser Removal
If you have a larger skin tag that’s more stubborn, laser treatment may be an option. Laser removal uses a concentrated light beam to target and break down the blood vessels inside the skin tag. It’s precise, effective, and typically doesn’t require much downtime.
Can Eyelid Skin Tags Be Prevented?
While it’s hard to prevent skin tags altogether, especially if they run in your family, there are a few things you can do to minimize your risk:
- Avoid rubbing or pulling on your eyelids to reduce friction.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce skin folds and friction.
- Manage any underlying conditions, like diabetes, that may contribute to skin tag development.
- Be gentle with your skincare around the eyes. Avoid harsh products that could irritate the delicate skin around your eyelids.
When to See a Doctor
If your skin tag changes in size, shape, or color—or if it starts to bleed or become painful—make sure to consult a doctor. While eyelid skin tags are typically harmless, changes in appearance could indicate something else that needs to be checked out.
Final Thoughts
Eyelid skin tags are super common and usually harmless, but we totally understand why you’d want to get rid of them if they’re causing you any discomfort or concern. The good news is that there are plenty of options to safely remove them, whether you prefer a quick in-office procedure or want to explore professional treatments. Just remember—when in doubt, always consult a dermatologist or skin care expert for advice and treatment options.
If you’re ready to say goodbye to your eyelid skin tag, talk to your doctor and find out the best course of action for you. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your skin!
