Are skin tags cancerous?
It's a very common worry. The short answer: skin tags are harmless. The NHS describes them as "soft, skin-coloured growths" that are "harmless". But it's always sensible to know what to look out for, and to see your GP if you're unsure.
Skin tag or mole: how to tell the difference
| Feature | Skin tag | Mole |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft, often hangs from a small stalk | Usually flat or slightly raised, part of the skin |
| Colour | Skin-coloured or slightly darker | Brown or black, sometimes pink |
| Where | Where skin rubs: neck, armpits, eyelids, under the bra line, groin | Anywhere on the body |
| Changes | Usually stays the same | Should be watched for changes |
When to see your GP
See your GP if a skin tag gets bigger, becomes painful, starts bleeding, or leads to lots of new skin tags.
For moles, the NHS advises seeing a GP if you have a mole that:
- has changed size, shape or colour
- is painful or itchy
- is inflamed, bleeding or crusty
or a new or unusual mark on your skin that hasn't gone away after a few weeks.
If you have any concerns, we always encourage you to visit your GP or healthcare provider first. Our nurses won't treat anything that needs checking by a doctor.
Do you remove moles?
We don't remove moles without a letter from your GP. Harmless moles also aren't usually treated on the NHS.
If it's a skin tag and it bothers you
Once you know it's a harmless skin tag, a registered nurse can remove it at City Aesthetics Clinic in Newcastle city centre. Your nurse checks every mark at your free consultation before treating it.
- £150 per 30-minute session, however many are treated
- free consultation, with no obligation
- free top-up within 8 weeks if needed
How skin tag removal works · Prices
Sources: NHS: Skin tags and NHS: Moles. Checked October 2026.