How to Remove Skin Tags? Dermatologist Approved

Did you know that nearly 50–60% of adults will develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime? Yes, those little bumps of extra skin that seem to appear out of nowhere can be found on almost anyone, regardless of age or gender. So if you’ve spotted a skin tag on your body, and are wondering how to get rid of skin tags, there’s no need to panic. But before you start picking away at them, it’s important to understand what causes skin tags and the proper ways to remove skin tags.

What are Skin Tags?

Skin tags are small, benign growths that typically occur in areas of the body where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and under the breasts. They are made up of loose collagen fibres and blood vessels surrounded by skin. Skin tags are typically skin-coloured or slightly darker and can vary in size from a speck to several millimetres in diameter. 

Although they are harmless, skin tags can be unsightly and may cause irritation or discomfort, especially if they are located in an area that’s frequently rubbed or pulled. They can be easily removed by a dermatologist or other healthcare provider if desired.

What Causes Skin Tags?

The exact answer to what causes skin tags is unknown, but they are believed to occur when clusters of collagen and blood vessels become trapped within thicker parts of the skin. However, certain conditions like the ones listed below make you more prone to developing skin tags.

1. Skin tags are more common in older adults and people who are overweight or obese.
2. People with certain medical conditions such as diabetes may also develop them. They can also develop during pregnancy due to hormonal changes
3. Skin tags may run in families and are more common in people with certain genetic disorders. 
4. They may also form in areas of the skin that are irritated or rubbed frequently, such as the neck, underarms, or groin.

How to Remove Skin Tags? 

Now that you understand what are skin tags, there are a few different methods for removing skin tags. These include over-the-counter removal creams, tying off the tag with a piece of string until it falls off, and freezing the tag with liquid nitrogen. However, natural remedies are not recommended as they can lead to skin irritation if not done properly and can even damage the skin. 

If you’re wondering how to remove skin tags, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional as they can guide you with the safest and most effective approach. At Bodycraft Clinic, our experts recommend Radio Frequency Cautery as a skin tag treatment.

Radio Frequency Surgery

Radio Frequency Surgery uses low temperatures and high-frequency energy radio waves to cauterise and effectively remove skin tags. It provides results without scarring the area and provides quick healing.

Process:

1. First, a consultation with our specialist is done to determine the thickness, severity, size, form, and location of the skin lesion
2. They will gather your medical history including details about any skin conditions you’ve had in the past, radiation treatments you’ve had on your face or skin, your overall health status, and any current medications you’re on.
3. The profession will clean and apply anaesthesia in the treatment region.
4. A sensitive stainless steel electrode with a variety of shapes and sizes is used to remove the skin growth once the area has become numb.
5. After the treatment, the area is gently cleansed.
6. Lastly, the region is dressed after a topical antibiotic has been applied.

The dressing should be taken off after 48 hours or as the doctor instructs. If many lesions have been removed and infection is anticipated, the dermatologist will provide an antibiotic prescription. It’s also essential to use broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly after the procedure. 

Takeaway

Skin tags may be harmless, but they can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness for many people. Fortunately, there are many safe and effective methods to remove skin tags. Book an Appointment with a certified dermatologist for skin tag treatments if you have any concerns or questions about the removal process. 

FAQs around How to Remove Skin Tags

1. Can skin tags be cancerous?

While skin tags are generally harmless, some skin cancers can look like skin tags, so it is important to get a proper diagnosis from a medical professional.

2. Are skin tags a symptom of anything?

Skin tags are generally harmless and not a symptom of any underlying medical condition. However, they may occur more frequently in people with obesity, diabetes, or those with a family history of skin tags.

3. Do skin tags grow bigger?

Yes, skin tags can grow bigger over time and become more noticeable, however, if the skin tag increases dramatically, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately.

4. Can skin tags spread by touch?

No, skin tags are not contagious and do not spread by touch.