Why do I get flesh-colored moles on my neck or armpits, and how do I get rid of them? Experts explain.

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Why Do I Get Flesh-Colored Moles on My Neck or Armpits — and How Do I Get Rid of Them? Experts Explain

Have you noticed small, soft, flesh-colored growths popping up around your neck, armpits, or even under your breasts? You’re not alone — and you’re not imagining things. These little skin tags, often mistaken for moles, are incredibly common and typically harmless.

But what are they exactly? Why do they show up in those specific areas? And most importantly — how can you get rid of them safely?

We asked dermatologists and skincare experts to weigh in.

🧐 First Things First: Are They Really Moles?

Probably not.

While they may look like moles at first glance, these growths are most likely skin tags — medically known as acrochordons. They’re benign (non-cancerous) and very common, especially in areas where the skin folds or experiences friction.

🩺 “Skin tags are small, soft growths of skin that typically appear in areas like the neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts,” explains Dr. Lauren Ross, board-certified dermatologist. “They’re often flesh-colored and can range from a tiny bump to a small flap.”

🔍 Why Do They Appear?

There are a few key reasons why you may be seeing these skin-colored bumps:

✅ 1. Friction

Skin tags often develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing — such as the neck or armpits.

✅ 2. Hormones

They’re more common during pregnancy or hormonal shifts, due to changes in growth factors in the skin.

✅ 3. Genetics

Some people are simply more prone to developing them — it can run in families.

✅ 4. Age and Weight

They tend to appear more frequently in people who are overweight, middle-aged, or older.

✅ 5. Insulin Resistance

People with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes may be more likely to develop skin tags.

❓ Are They Dangerous?

The good news: Skin tags are almost always harmless.
However, you should get any new or changing skin growth checked by a dermatologist, especially if it:

• Grows rapidly
• Bleeds
• Changes color or shape
• Causes pain

🔎 “When in doubt, get it checked out,” says Dr. Ross. “Skin tags don’t turn into cancer, but other types of skin lesions can look similar.”

🧴 How Can I Get Rid of Them?

If your skin tags are bothering you for cosmetic reasons or getting irritated by jewelry or clothing, there are several removal options: