What are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are small, harmless benign growths. They can occur anywhere on the skin but are most commonly located in areas where the skin folds such as the groin, armpits, neck, and under the breasts. While they are not dangerous, skin tags can be uncomfortable and annoying.
Skin tags can be identified by the following characteristics:
- Usually a few millimeters in size.
- Soft to the touch.
- Hang off of the skin by a small stalk called a peduncle.
- May be smooth, wrinkly, or resemble a grain of rice.
Skin Tag Treatment Options
While skin tags may fall off on their own, they can be removed using a number of techniques. In most cases, injected anesthesia is not necessary to remove skin tags. What is important is assessment based on the size of the skin tag, your skin sensitivity and skin type to ensure that removal is as seamless as possible without leaving any secondary effects or skin damage.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the skin tag off with liquid nitrogen.
Electrosurgery: Eliminating the skin tag with high-frequency electrical energy.
Surgical Removal: Removing the skin tag with a scalpel or scissors.
It is important that you do not try to remove skin tags on your own, as this may lead to bleeding, scarring, skin irritation, or infection. If you are unhappy with or bothered by a skin tag, be sure to arrange an appointment at DermAtelier on Avenue to be assessed in-person to determine your best and safest treatment option.
Who is a Good Candidate for Skin Tag Treatment?
While skin tags are not a cause for concern, they can be irritating and stubborn. While anyone can get skin tags, you may be at a greater risk if you are overweight, pregnant, or have family members with skin tags. If you are bothered by skin tags and would like to remove them, you can benefit from skin tag treatment. Please contact our office today to schedule your consultation appointment with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Beach to determine which skin tag removal method is best for you.
What to Expect After Skin Tag Treatment?
Following skin tag removal, there is little to no downtime required. Dr. Beach will instruct you on how to properly care for your skin tag removal site, which may include gently washing the area with soap and water. You may also need to schedule a follow-up appointment to check the site and ensure that no other sites require removal.
Contact Us Today
If you are bothered by a skin tag or multiple skin tags, contact DermAtelier on Avenue today to learn more about your skin tag treatment options. We will be happy to schedule your consultation with Dr. Beach, during which you will be able to discuss treatment options as well as go over any questions that you may have.