What exactly are skin tags and what causes them to form?

Skin tags (acrochordons, fibroepithelial polyps) are benign, soft, pedunculated (stalk-bearing) overgrowths of skin and fibrovascular tissue. Under microscopy, they contain a fibrovascular core covered by normal epidermis — there's nothing pathological about their composition. Formation mechanism: chronic friction causes stimulation of keratinocyte and fibroblast proliferation; this is amplified by elevated insulin/IGF-1 levels in people with insulin resistance. They develop most commonly at friction sites: neck (collar rubbing), axillae (underarms), groin, under breasts, and on the feet and ankles where shoe edges and sock bands create friction. Balance Foot & Ankle (810) 206-1402 evaluates skin tags on the feet in Howell and Bloomfield Hills as part of comprehensive foot care.

Are skin tags on the feet different from skin tags elsewhere?

Skin tags on the feet are essentially the same tissue as those elsewhere — benign fibrovascular growths. However, foot-specific skin tags have unique characteristics: they're typically in friction zones created by footwear (shoe collar rubbing the Achilles area, sock elastic, toe box pressure on toes), they're more likely to be repeatedly irritated causing inflammation, bleeding, or pain; they may be confused with other foot conditions (warts, fibromas, early melanomas in some locations); and in diabetic patients, any foot skin change warrants professional evaluation. The metabolic association (skin tags = possible insulin resistance) applies regardless of location. If you're noticing skin tags specifically on your feet or ankles, evaluation at Balance Foot & Ankle ensures accurate diagnosis.

Can friction from shoes cause skin tags on the feet?

Yes — chronic friction from shoe edges, toe boxes, and sock bands is a primary mechanical cause of skin tag formation on the feet. Common locations: Achilles and posterior heel area (shoe collar rubbing), over the outer ankle (shoe upper edge), toe web spaces (friction between adjacent toes), and the dorsal toes (sock or shoe toe box friction). These skin tags are mechanically triggered even in people without metabolic predisposition. Addressing the friction cause (better-fitting footwear, padded liners, proper sock material) prevents new skin tags from forming at the same sites. If skin tags are causing pain from shoe pressure at Balance Foot & Ankle, we can remove them and advise on footwear modifications to prevent recurrence.

Do skin tags need to be removed or are they harmless?

Skin tags are completely benign — they don't become cancerous, don't spread, and don't cause health complications on their own. No medical necessity exists for removal in most cases. However, removal is appropriate when: skin tags cause pain from repeated friction with footwear, they bleed from trauma, they're cosmetically bothersome, they interfere with shoe fit, or they become infected from irritation. On the feet specifically, skin tags that are persistently irritated by shoes are more practically problematic than those at other body sites. Professional evaluation at Balance Foot & Ankle confirms the diagnosis (ensuring it IS a skin tag and not something else) and provides quick removal when indicated. Call (810) 206-1402 — Howell and Bloomfield Hills.

Can diabetic patients safely get skin tags removed from their feet?

Yes — diabetic patients can safely have skin tags removed from their feet, with appropriate precautions. Because diabetic patients have slower wound healing and higher infection risk, professional in-office removal is essential (no at-home attempts). The procedure is done under local anesthesia (same as non-diabetic patients), with careful sterile technique. Post-procedure wound care is more vigilant: daily inspection of the removal site, antibiotic ointment until healed, and follow-up visit to confirm healing. Balance Foot & Ankle's podiatrists routinely perform minor skin procedures on diabetic patients with appropriate protocols. Any wound that doesn't show clear healing progress within 5–7 days warrants prompt reassessment. Contact us at (810) 206-1402 for evaluation of foot skin tags in diabetic patients at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices.

When should I see a podiatrist?

For persistent foot/ankle pain, difficulty walking, numbness, non-healing wounds, skin changes, or deformities. Dr. Biernacki offers same-day appointments. Call 810-206-1402.

Does Dr. Biernacki accept insurance?

Balance Foot & Ankle accepts most major plans including BCBS, Aetna, United, Cigna & Medicare. Call 810-206-1402 to verify coverage. Affordable self-pay options available.

What to expect at your first podiatry visit?

Comprehensive evaluation including history, exam, biomechanical assessment, and in-office X-rays. Same-day diagnosis and treatment when possible. Most visits take 30-45 minutes.

Are skin tags on feet common?

Skin tags are more common in areas of friction like the neck, armpits, and groin, but they can occur on feet, particularly between toes or on areas where shoes rub. Skin growths on the feet should be properly diagnosed to distinguish them from warts, corns, or other conditions.

Do skin tags indicate a health problem?

While individual skin tags are benign, multiple or recurrent skin tags have been associated with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and dyslipidemia in several studies. If you develop numerous skin tags, screening for these metabolic conditions may be recommended.

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

What Causes Skin Tags? [What are Skin Tags? ]

Name: What Causes Skin Tags? [What are Skin Tags? ]
Uploaded: 2023-04-11T14:44:25-04:00
Channel: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Description: ✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Thomas Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026 What Causes Skin Tags? [What are Skin Tags? ] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZ8-H99T5es What Causes Skin...

What Causes Skin Tags? [What are Skin Tags? ] 🦶What is a Skin tags? Skin Tags are also known as Acrochordons, these are small, soft, and harmless growths on the skin. There is a major underlying secret!🦶 Related Videos: Skin Tag Removal & Treatment: https://youtu.be/OBhpphxW5lw Skin Signs of High Blood Sugar: https://youtu.be/8U9b36D43xI Best Wart Treatments: https://youtu.be/9hqrT2O8s00 Plantar Warts vs. Corns vs. Calluses: https://youtu.be/-uCHjVNCElE Athlete’s Foot Fungus Treatment: https://youtu.be/ZZpw3zLrHb0 Best Diabetes Drink: https://youtu.be/YOFrlc10E4E Reverse 90% of Diabetes with this Diet: https://youtu.be/qCQW9e7CrEk 10 Best Diabetic Vitamins: https://youtu.be/sPihveT3oc0 Best Diabetic Foods: https://youtu.be/jLID96VA7j0 How to know your heart is not well: https://youtu.be/qx4QAX2L4Fo Vitamin D, Vitamin K2 & Magnesium: https://youtu.be/esTz-_Mpm4Q Reverse Clogged Arteries: https://youtu.be/oNiZo0nO048 Diabetic Neuropathy [Peripheral Neuropathy]: https://youtu.be/E_0ALrqYUSM 👉 LINKS 👈 Disclaimer: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click on one of the product links. I appreciate your support of this channel! Top 10 Skin Tag Over The Counter Remover Products:

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Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links to products we recommend. If you purchase through these links, Balance Foot & Ankle may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we use with our patients.

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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PMGMN45?tag=biernact-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1 (Amazon) Best Foot Soak: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076L558R3?tag=biernact-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1 (Amazon) Best For Dry Toenails: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NF9S9FT?tag=biernact-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1 (Amazon) Best for Fungus (Just Remember to Trim Ahead of Time!!!): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NCLXKZG?tag=biernact-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1 (Amazon) Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, soft, and harmless growths on the skin. The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but some of the factors that may contribute to their development include: Friction: Skin tags may form in areas where the skin rubs against clothing or other skin, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids. Age: Skin tags are more common in middle-aged and older adults. Genetics: Skin tags may run in families, suggesting that there may be a genetic component to their development. Hormones: Skin tags may develop during pregnancy or in people with certain hormonal imbalances. Obesity: Skin tags may be more common in people who are overweight or obese. Medical conditions: Skin tags may be associated with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. While skin tags are generally harmless and do not require treatment, if you have a skin tag that is causing discomfort or is in a highly visible area, you may want to consider having it removed by a healthcare professional. 👉 Shoes 👈 Best Shoes:

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Best Products: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/recommended-foot-doctor-products/// 📢Come See Us in Detroit, Michigan, Berkley Michigan; Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Lansing Michigan; and Grand Blanc Michigan📢 If you are in Michigan, consider seeing us at our clinic: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/. https://g.page/r/CaxJ9b-O6o27EAE 👉 LINKS 👈 Disclaimer: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click on one of the product links. I appreciate your support of this channel! DISCLAIMER: Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2 separate traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and separately in Foot & Ankle Surgery. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” about himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist in Michigan. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best if you did not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

Michigan Podiatric Care at Balance Foot & Ankle: Expert Treatment for Every Foot Condition

Michigan patients with any foot or ankle concern — from acute injuries and chronic pain to preventive care and high-risk foot management — receive expert podiatric care at Balance Foot & Ankle. Our fellowship-trained podiatrists provide comprehensive evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment that addresses root causes rather than simply managing symptoms. We are committed to transparent communication: patients always understand their diagnosis, their treatment options, and realistic expectations before any intervention is undertaken.

Related Treatment Guides

Our Howell office (4330 E Grand River) serves Livingston County, and our Bloomfield Hills office (43494 Woodward Ave #208) serves Oakland County. Both locations offer in-office X-ray, same-week new patient scheduling, and the full range of conservative and surgical podiatric services. We accept all major Michigan insurance plans and verify coverage before appointments — no insurance surprises at check-in. Michigan patients ready to take the next step toward better foot health can call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule today.

Medical References & Sources

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Clinical References

Schwartz RA. “Acrochordon (skin tag): clinical presentation and pathology.” Medscape Reference. 2023.
Rasi A, et al. “Skin tag as a cutaneous marker for impaired carbohydrate metabolism.” Int J Dermatol. 2007;46(11):1155-1159.
Sari R, et al. “The relationship of skin tags with insulin resistance.” J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2004;18(3):381-384.

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Howell, MI 48843

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Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.