Written by: Zobiana Dillsworth
Image Source: First Derm
Anyone can have skin tags, as they are simply caused by consistent rubbing of the skin. When skin is irritated by other skin, clothing, or jewelry, skin tags may develop. Because of the cause of skin tags, they most often appear on the neck, eyelids, armpits, breasts, and groin. Some people may be more at risk of getting skin tags than others, such as those who have loose skin, metabolic syndrome, or are pregnant, overweight, or diabetic. Additionally, people may carry a gene for skin tags, meaning if they have relatives with skin tags, they are likely to have them as well. Skin tags can be directly attached to the skin or may hang from a “stalk.” These growths may be pink, red, dark, or match the surrounding skin color. No matter the type or color of these growths, they are harmless (1).
People with skin tags often want them removed, but this procedure is not always recommended by dermatologists. While dermatologists can remove any skin tag, insurance will not cover the procedure if it is only done for looks. Skin tags only need to be removed when they bleed often or affect eyesight. Skin tags can also become irritated or painful: when clothing, skin, jewelry, or seatbelts continue to rub against the area, or the area is shaved. Because of the pain, dermatologists may remove the tag. If this issue is something you face, the first step is to speak to your dermatologist (1).
The removal of skin tags is often a straightforward procedure; dermatologists can often complete the work in a single appointment. However, time lengths and methods depend on the specific skin tag, specifically their size and location. Dermatologists may use cryosurgery, electrodesiccation, or the snip treatment to remove skin tags. Cryosurgery is a freezing procedure: an extremely cold substance freezes the skin tag. This process can be completed by the area scabbing over (when the scab falls off, so will the skin tag) or the dermatologist cutting the skin tag off. Electrodesiccation uses a tiny needle that zaps the skin tag, which, in turn, causes scabbing. The final procedure option is snipping, which is when the area is numbed, and the dermatologist simply cuts the tag off. All of these procedures have after-care instructions given by the dermatologist. To avoid further pain or infection, these instructions need to be followed carefully (1).
It is important to note that there are at-home removal methods for skin tags available: removal creams, patches, freeze kits, tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and vitamin E oil. Removal creams and patches often take a long time to work, which can lead to further irritation. Freeze kits are often used for at-home removal of warts, but sometimes people attempt to use them with skin tags, too. These kits have chemicals– nitrous oxide, dimethyl ether, propane, and/or isobutane– that may cause irritation and skin damage to the surrounding skin. Tea tree oil will not hurt the surrounding skin, but applying it directly to the skin tag may cause irritation; it is also not seen as an effective skin tag removal method. Apple cider vinegar can cause irritation or chemical burns to the skin because of its acidic content. No negative effects of vitamin E oil have been discovered, but no research supports its use as skin tag removal either (2). Overall, it is best to go to a dermatologist rather than use anything on your skin without knowing for sure.
Skin tags can be annoying, especially on a cosmetics level, but most of the time, they are harmless. However, skin tags can also become irritating or even painful, which is why there are ways for dermatologists to remove these growths. If skin tags are beginning to advance into the painful stage, a dermatologist should be seen and at-home remedies should be avoided.
References:
1. “Skin tags: Why they develop, and how to remove them.” American Academy of Dermatology, 1 May 2023, https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/skin-tags. 2. “Skin Tag Removal: Don't Try It at Home.” Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, 10 October 2022, https://health.clevelandclinic.org/skin-tag-removal/.
Disclaimer: This organization's content is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Content provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health-related diagnosis or treatment options. Information on this website should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional.
Comments