Hormones influence nearly every system in the body, including your skin. Sudden appearance or changes in moles and skin tags are often linked to hormonal causes of skin tags, especially during key life stages like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
Understanding the hormonal causes of skin changes can help you manage your skin better and recognize patterns that are completely normal versus those that need attention.
Know Why Do Skin Tags Happen and What Causes Them Naturally
How Hormones Affect Skin Growth
Hormones are chemical messengers that control various bodily functions. When levels fluctuate, they can stimulate melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) and trigger overgrowth of skin tissue, leading to changes in moles and formation of skin tags.
Key hormones that impact skin behavior include:
- Estrogen
- Progesterone
- Testosterone
- Insulin
- Growth Hormone (GH)
Hormonal Triggers Behind Moles
1. Puberty
During puberty, rising levels of estrogen and testosterone stimulate melanin production. This can cause new moles to appear or existing ones to darken or become raised.
These changes are usually harmless and affect areas like the chest, back, arms, and face.
2. Pregnancy
Pregnant women often experience rapid skin changes due to elevated estrogen and progesterone. Moles may:
- Darken in color
- Increase slightly in size
- Become more raised or textured
A few new moles may also appear during the second or third trimester. These are usually benign and hormone-induced.
⚠️ Any mole that changes unevenly in color, shape, or border during pregnancy should still be checked.
3. Birth Control and Hormone Therapy
Hormonal medications can mimic pregnancy-like changes in the skin. Some women notice mole darkening or increased skin sensitivity after starting oral contraceptives or HRT.
Also Read What Causes Moles to Form on Your Body as You Age?
Hormonal Triggers Behind Skin Tags
1. Pregnancy and Insulin Resistance
Skin tags often appear during mid to late pregnancy due to hormonal shifts combined with increased insulin production.
Insulin resistance (often found in women with PCOS or gestational diabetes) may also lead to more skin tags, especially on the neck, breasts, underarms, and groin.
2. Obesity and Hormones
Excess body fat increases levels of estrogen and insulin-like growth factors, which are both linked to skin tag formation.
This is why skin tags are common in overweight individuals or those with metabolic syndrome.
3. Thyroid Imbalance
Though less common, thyroid disorders can disrupt skin regeneration and pigmentation. Some studies link thyroid issues with unusual skin growths, including tags or pigmented patches.
When to Be Concerned
While hormone-related skin growths are usually harmless, any mole or tag that:
- Changes color unevenly
- Grows rapidly
- Itches or bleeds
- Develops a rough or irregular border
…should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out more serious conditions.
The connection between hormonal changes and skin growths is well documented. Whether it’s puberty, pregnancy, or insulin resistance, your skin reflects what’s happening inside your body.
If you’re noticing sudden mole changes or new skin tags appearing in clusters, consider checking in on your hormonal balance, blood sugar levels, and overall health. Early awareness is the best skincare.