What is an anal skin tag?
An anal skin tag is a small, soft fold of excess skin that develops around the anus.
It is a harmless, non-cancerous growth, but it can still cause irritation, difficulty with cleaning after bowel movements, or cosmetic concern.
Many patients notice a small lump or flap of skin that may become more noticeable when wiping or if the surrounding area becomes inflamed.
Anal skin tags are very common in adults and can appear on their own or following other anal conditions. Because small anal lumps can sometimes be mistaken for haemorrhoids, anal warts, fissures, or other perianal problems, assessment by an experienced colorectal surgeon is advised if symptoms persist or if the diagnosis is uncertain.
What causes anal skin tags?
Anal skin tags develop when the skin around the anus has been stretched or inflamed. One of the most common causes is a previous thrombosed haemorrhoid. When the swelling of a haemorrhoid settles down, the stretched skin often remains as a small flap, which becomes a skin tag. Chronic anal fissures can also lead to skin tag formation as the ongoing irritation from a persistent tear causes the surrounding skin to thicken and fold. Pregnancy and childbirth may contribute because increased pressure and stretching in the pelvic region can cause swelling around the anus, leaving behind a tag once the swelling resolves.
Less commonly, anal skin tags form due to repeated irritation, excessive wiping, friction, or changes in bowel habit such as constipation or diarrhoea.
These issues can temporarily enlarge the skin in the anal region, and when the swelling improves, a skin tag may be left behind. In many individuals, the original problem has resolved completely, but the skin tag remains as a harmless reminder of previous inflammation.
Anal skin tags are not linked to cancer and do not turn into cancer. They are benign and usually cause concern only because of discomfort, hygiene problems, or appearance.
What are the symptoms of an anal skin tag?
Skin tags themselves do not usually cause pain, but they can create difficulty with cleaning after a bowel movement, lead to itching or irritation, or cause a small lump or flap of skin to be felt around the anus.
Some people notice occasional swelling or inflammation, and others experience anxiety or embarrassment about the appearance of the area.
Anal skin tags may become more uncomfortable if they are repeatedly irritated, particularly when haemorrhoids or anal fissures are also present.
Because these symptoms overlap with other anal conditions, an accurate diagnosis is important.
How are anal skin tags treated?
Treatment for anal skin tags depends on symptoms and patient preference. Small tags that are not causing itching, discomfort, or hygiene issues may not require any treatment at all.
Non-surgical management
Non-surgical management focuses on reducing irritation. This includes gentle cleaning techniques, avoiding excessive wiping, ensuring stools remain soft through good fluid intake and a high-fibre diet, and treating any underlying haemorrhoids or fissures.
These measures help maintain comfort and reduce the chance of further inflammation.
Surgical treatment options
Surgical treatment options may be considered if a skin tag causes persistent symptoms, hygiene problems, or ongoing irritation.
The procedure involves removing the skin tag and shaping the surrounding skin to allow smooth healing usually performed under general or spinal anaesthesia.
Most patients recover within a few weeks, and maintaining good hygiene together with stool-softening measures supports healing and reduces the risk of recurrence.
When should you see a colorectal surgeon?
Specialist assessment is recommended if you are unsure whether the lump is a skin tag or another condition, if there is persistent itching, irritation, or swelling, or if the tag causes difficulty with cleaning or leads to staining.
A consultation is also helpful if multiple tags are present, if haemorrhoids are involved, or if you are considering removal for comfort or cosmetic improvement.
Seeing a colorectal surgeon ensures the correct diagnosis and helps you choose the most appropriate treatment option.