Can excessive perspiration contribute to the development of skin tags? A review of the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications

This study investigated whether excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis contributes to the formation of skin tags (acrochordons). This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms and clinical significance of this potential association, focusing on the interaction between hyperhidrosis and skin tag development. A review was conducted using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Scopus to identify studies evaluating the association between hyperhidrosis and skin tags, with data extraction and statistical analysis performed according to standardized protocols. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression and chi-squared tests, were used to evaluate the association between hyperhidrosis and the occurrence of skin tags. Participants included individuals of all ages, and the study was adjusted for potential confounding factors such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic conditions. The sample sizes ranged from 100 to 5,000 participants, with a median age of 45 years. The prevalence of skin tags was significantly higher in individuals with hyperhidrosis (64%) (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that hyperhidrosis was independently associated with an increased risk of skin tag development (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.8, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.5–5.2, p = 0.002) after adjusting for body mass index (BMI), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and lipid profiles. Participants with hyperhidrosis also showed a significantly higher mean systolic blood pressure (p = 0.004) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.006). Additionally, increased total cholesterol (p = 0.015) and triglyceride (p = 0.021) levels were observed in the hyperhidrosis group, suggesting a potential link between hyperhidrosis, skin tags, and metabolic dysregulation. These findings suggest that hyperhidrosis is significantly associated with the occurrence of skin tags, potentially owing to prolonged skin moisture and friction in areas prone to hyperhidrosis. This study emphasizes the importance of recognizing hyperhidrosis as a contributing factor to the development of skin tags, particularly in individuals with metabolic syndrome.