Is a Purple Skin Tag Dangerous?
What are Skin Tags
Skin tags are small, soft, benign skin growths that often appear on areas where the skin folds or rubs together, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, and groin. While they are generally harmless, a sudden change in colour or appearance—such as a skin tag turning purple—can cause concern. If you’ve noticed a purple skin tag, you might be wondering: is this something I should worry about?
Let’s explore what it means when a skin tag turns purple, when to seek professional advice, how to remove skin tags safely, and how ENRICH Clinic in Melbourne can help.
What Causes Skin Tags?
Skin tags form when clusters of collagen and blood vessels become trapped inside thicker bits of skin. They tend to occur more often in people with obesity, insulin resistance, or skin friction issues. Genetics and hormonal changes can also be contributing factors. Understanding what causes skin tags can help you reduce triggers and take preventive steps.
What Causes a Purple Skin Tag?
A skin tag may turn purple if its blood supply is interrupted. This usually happens when the tag becomes twisted, pinched, or irritated—common in areas where clothing or skin causes friction. When blood flow is cut off, the tag can darken and even fall off on its own. This process is known as necrosis, and while it might sound serious, it’s usually benign.
However, a change in colour—especially if it occurs suddenly—can sometimes mimic other skin conditions, including more serious concerns. It’s important to observe whether the tag changes in size, shape, or texture, or if it becomes painful or starts bleeding.
Are Cherry Angiomas Also Called Purple Skin Tags ?
No, cherry angiomas are not the same as purple skin tags, although people sometimes confuse the two because of their appearance.
Cherry angiomas are clusters of capillaries at the skin’s surface, which is why they appear red or purple. They’re not skin tags, and they don’t usually change in shape unless irritated.
What a Purple Skin Tag Typically Looks Like:
- Shape: Soft, small, rounded or teardrop-shaped bump attached by a narrow stalk (pedunculated).
- Size: Ranges from 1–5 mm, though larger ones exist.
- Colour: Purplish to dark red. This colour change usually happens due to torsion or damage to the blood supply.
- Texture: Slightly wrinkled or smooth surface; soft to touch.
- Location: Common in friction-prone areas—neck, underarms, eyelids, or groin.
Is a Purple Skin Tag Dangerous?
In most cases, a purple skin tag is not dangerous. It is typically the result of minor trauma or twisting, leading to temporary loss of circulation. However, there are situations when further investigation is warranted.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin tags are generally benign and non-cancerous. That said, there are rare occasions when what appears to be a skin tag may actually be another type of growth, such as a mole, wart, or even a form of skin cancer.
If you notice the following signs, it’s best to get it checked:
- Rapid growth or spreading
- Irregular borders or colour changes
- Persistent bleeding or oozing
- Pain or tenderness
- Itching or inflammation
When to See a Dermatologist
If your skin tag has changed colour, grown in size, or is causing discomfort, it’s time to consult a skin expert. At ENRICH Clinic Melbourne, our team of qualified dermatologists can evaluate the tag and determine whether it’s truly benign or something that needs further assessment.
Using techniques like dermoscopy (a magnified, illuminated examination of the skin), your dermatologist can distinguish between benign and potentially concerning skin lesions. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Purple Skin Tags
If the purple skin tag is benign but bothersome—whether cosmetically or physically—it can be safely removed. At ENRICH Clinic, we offer several skin tag removal options, including:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the tag with liquid nitrogen
- Cauterisation: Burning the tag using a special device
- Snip excision: Cutting the tag off with sterile surgical scissors
- Laser removal: Using focused light energy to remove the tag
These treatments are quick, usually performed under local anaesthetic, and involve minimal downtime. We customise our approach based on the tag’s location, size, and skin sensitivity.
Many people wonder how to remove skin tags in one night. While some over-the-counter remedies claim quick results, it’s important to avoid DIY solutions that can damage skin or cause infection. Professional removal is the safest and most effective method.
Are Skin Tags Linked to Other Health Conditions?
While skin tags themselves are harmless, they may sometimes be associated with underlying
metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. A study published in the Annals of Medical and Health Sciences Research highlighted a link between skin tags and elevated blood glucose levels in some individuals (NCBI).
If you have multiple skin tags—especially around the neck or underarms—it may be worth discussing your metabolic health with a healthcare professional.
Can Purple Skin Tags Be Prevented?
Prevention is not always possible, especially if you’re genetically predisposed to skin tags. However, there are some practical steps that may help reduce the risk of developing them:
- Reduce friction in common areas by wearing looser clothing
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Keep skin clean and dry
- Avoid excessive jewellery or accessories that rub the skin
Regular skin checks are also key. Our skin consultations at ENRICH Clinic help identify changes in your skin early and give you peace of mind.
Talk To A Dermatologist
A purple skin tag is most often nothing to worry about. However, any sudden or unexplained changes in your skin should be evaluated by a professional. While most skin tags are completely harmless, it’s always better to be safe and seek an expert opinion, especially when it comes to your skin’s health.
At ENRICH Clinic in Melbourne, our dermatology team, led by Dr Michael Rich, provides evidence-based diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of skin concerns, including unusual or changing skin tags. Whether you’re after reassurance or ready to have a skin tag removed, we’re here to help you restore confidence in your skin.
Interested in discussing a suspicious skin tag? Book a consultation with one of our dermatologists today and get expert care you can trust.
