What is a Skin Tag?
Skin tags are tiny flesh-coloured or brown growths that dangle from your skin, and are typically harmless and painless. Composed of loose collagen fibres and blood vessels enveloped by skin, they can resemble warts or raised bumps. While they generally cause no discomfort, they can sometimes catch on clothing or jewellery, potentially causing bleeding. Moreover, they may impact one’s self-esteem.
What Causes Skin Tags?
Skin tags can develop in both men and women, primarily in areas where the skin folds or creases, such as the neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts.
Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition towards skin tags, and those with type 2 diabetes or pregnant women are also more susceptible. Some people may experience skin tags without any identifiable cause.
Your Skin Tag Removal Consultation: What Should You Expect?
Your consultation for skin tag removal will be with a GP or Consultant Dermatologist who will examine your skin tag and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment. They will be able to address any questions or concerns you may have about your skin tag and provide personalized advice during your consultation.
Methods for Skin Tag Removal
At The Health Suite, we provide the following skin tag removal techniques:
Excision Removal: This painless treatment is performed under local anaesthetic. The skin tag is meticulously excised using a scalpel, eliminating it and leaving only a small, white or pink scar in its place. This procedure is solely performed by our consultant dermatologist.
Cryotherapy: In this method, the skin tag is frozen using liquid Nitrogen, a gas that produces freezing temperatures. The cold temperature destroys the cells within the skin tag, cuts off the blood supply, and allows the skin tag to naturally fall off. Some patients may experience temporary irritation or skin discolouration, and additional treatment may be necessary if the skin tag doesn’t fall off. This technique is also utilized for wart and verruca removal. This is performed by our GPs, skin specialist nurses and consultant dermatologists.
Common Q&A about Skin Tags
Skin tags are small, soft growths of skin that hang off the body by a thin stalk. They are typically flesh-coloured or slightly darker and can appear on various parts of the body, especially where the skin folds.
The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but they often occur in areas where the skin rubs against itself, like the neck, armpits, groin, and under the breasts. Factors like obesity, aging, and genetics may increase the likelihood of developing skin tags.
No, skin tags are benign (non-cancerous) and usually harmless. They do not pose any health risks, though they can sometimes become irritated or bleed if they are rubbed frequently.
There is no guaranteed way to prevent skin tags, but maintaining a healthy weight and minimizing skin friction by wearing loose-fitting clothing may reduce the chances of developing them.
Skin tags can be removed by a doctor through various methods, including cutting them off (excision), freezing them off (cryotherapy), or burning them off (cauterization). There are also over-the-counter kits for at-home removal, though it’s generally safer to have a professional handle it.
Most skin tag removal procedures are quick and relatively painless. Depending on the method used, there may be a mild stinging or burning sensation. Numbing agents are often applied to minimize discomfort.
Skin tags that are properly removed generally do not grow back in the same spot. However, new skin tags can form in other areas over time.
Yes, skin tags are more common in people who are overweight or obese, individuals with diabetes, and older adults. Pregnant women may also develop skin tags due to hormonal changes.
You should see a doctor if a skin tag becomes painful, bleeds frequently, colour changes, or if you’re unsure whether the growth is a skin tag. While skin tags are generally harmless, it’s important to rule out other skin conditions.
While there are some home remedies and over-the-counter kits, it’s generally recommended to have skin tags removed by a healthcare professional to avoid infection or improper removal. Never attempt to cut them off yourself as this can lead to complications.