Skin Tags on Baby
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Pediatrician
Content reviewed against published AAP, NIH, AAP guidelines
Last reviewed:
Baby skin is sensitive and changes frequently. If you are noticing skin tags on baby, here is what you need to know.
The short answer
Skin tags on babies are usually harmless small flaps of skin that are present from birth. Preauricular skin tags near the ear are the most common type and are found in about 1% of newborns. While they are cosmetically insignificant and do not cause pain, your pediatrician may recommend a hearing test and evaluation to rule out associated conditions.
Key takeaways
- Skin tags on babies are usually harmless small flaps of skin that are present from birth. Preauricular skin tags near the ear are the most common type and are found in about 1% of newborns. While they are cosmetically insignificant and do not cause pain, your pediatrician may recommend a hearing test and evaluation to rule out associated conditions.
- Usually normal when: A small, soft skin tag present from birth near the ear or elsewhere that is not changing
- Call your doctor if: A skin tag or growth becomes red, swollen, painful, or appears to be infected
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
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What Parents Should Know
According to AAP, NIH guidelines, skin tags on babies are usually harmless small flaps of skin that are present from birth. Preauricular skin tags near the ear are the most common type and are found in about 1% of newborns. While they are cosmetically insignificant and do not cause pain, your pediatrician may recommend a hearing test and evaluation to rule out associated conditions. At 0-3 months, skin tags are usually noticed at birth or during the first newborn exam. Preauricular skin tags (near the ear) are the most common. Your pediatrician will examine the tag and may recommend a hearing screening, as ear tags can occasionally be associated with hearing differences or kidney variations. Most skin tags are isolated findings with no other issues. It is generally considered normal when a small, soft skin tag present from birth near the ear or elsewhere that is not changing. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if a skin tag or growth becomes red, swollen, painful, or appears to be infected.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
0-3 months
Skin tags are usually noticed at birth or during the first newborn exam. Preauricular skin tags (near the ear) are the most common. Your pediatrician will examine the tag and may recommend a hearing screening, as ear tags can occasionally be associated with hearing differences or kidney variations. Most skin tags are isolated findings with no other issues.
3-6 months
Skin tags present at birth will remain stable and do not grow rapidly. They are not painful and do not need urgent treatment. If removal is desired for cosmetic reasons, your pediatrician may tie off small tags in the office or refer to a specialist for larger ones.
6-12 months
By this age, any recommended evaluations (like hearing tests or renal ultrasound for ear tags) should be completed. The skin tag itself is harmless and removal is elective. Some parents choose to leave them alone as they may become less noticeable as the child grows.
12-24 months
If a new skin growth appears in toddlerhood (as opposed to being present from birth), it should be evaluated by your pediatrician to determine what it is. New growths are more likely to be warts, molluscum, or other benign conditions rather than true congenital skin tags.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed skin tags on baby and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if you notice a skin tag at birth and want it evaluated.
- Mention if a skin tag near the ear has not been assessed for associated hearing or kidney concerns.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- A small, soft skin tag present from birth near the ear or elsewhere that is not changing
- A skin tag that has been evaluated by your pediatrician and deemed benign
- A stable skin tag that is not red, painful, or growing rapidly
- You notice a skin tag at birth and want it evaluated
- A skin tag near the ear has not been assessed for associated hearing or kidney concerns
- You are interested in discussing removal options
- A skin tag or growth becomes red, swollen, painful, or appears to be infected
- A new rapidly growing skin growth appears at any age that was not present at birth
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice skin tags on baby — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that a small, soft skin tag present from birth near the ear or elsewhere that is not changing — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At 0-3 months, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products on your baby's skin. Avoid over-bathing — 2-3 baths per week is usually sufficient.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if a skin tag or growth becomes red, swollen, painful, or appears to be infected.
Related Conditions
Related Resources
Baby Skin Conditions Guide
Visual guide to common baby skin conditions, rashes, and when to see a doctor.
Growth Percentile Calculator
Plot your baby's weight, length, and head circumference on WHO/CDC growth charts.
Month-by-Month Development
Detailed monthly development guides from birth through 24 months.
When to Call the Doctor
General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.
Frequently asked questions
Is skin tags on baby normal?
When should I call the doctor about skin tags on baby?
When is skin tags on baby normal?
What causes skin tags on baby?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about skin tags on baby?
Is skin tags on baby normal at 0-3 months?
Is skin tags on baby normal at 3-6 months?
Should I go to the ER for skin tags on baby?
Does skin tags on baby go away on its own?
References
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Skin Tags on Baby.
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed skin tags on baby and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if you notice a skin tag at birth and want it evaluated.
- Mention if a skin tag near the ear has not been assessed for associated hearing or kidney concerns.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- You notice a skin tag at birth and want it evaluated
- A skin tag near the ear has not been assessed for associated hearing or kidney concerns
- You are interested in discussing removal options
Urgent signs to report immediately
- A skin tag or growth becomes red, swollen, painful, or appears to be infected
- A new rapidly growing skin growth appears at any age that was not present at birth
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of skin tags on baby are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if a skin tag or growth becomes red, swollen, painful, or appears to be infected.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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