How To Safely Remove Skin Tags
Avoid doing it yourself, see a dermatologist for best results
Avoid doing it yourself, see a dermatologist for best results
Skin tags are harmless, non-cancerous growths that can appear anywhere on the body. They often show up in places like the armpits, neck, groin and other places where the skin naturally folds.
These growths are made up of skin cells, collagen fibers, nerve cells and fat and blood vessels. They attach to the skin with a thin, fleshy cylinder called a stalk.
Clinically known as acrochordons, skin tags usually start out small, measuring between 1 and 5 mm but can grow to several centimeters over time. They may be the same color as your skin or a slightly darker shade.
While skin tags are not harmful, many people decide to remove them for cosmetic reasons or discomfort.
Depending where they are on the body, they may get caught on clothing or necklaces and may bleed from repeated rubbing against clothing. Should they become a problem, it’s important to know how to safely remove skin tags.
The safest way to remove skin tags is to see a dermatologist. “If you’re concerned about skin tags, make an appointment to talk about having them removed,” says Maryam Afshar, MD, a dermatologist at Scripps Clinic Torrey Pines. “It’s a quick and simple procedure, and it’s permanent, so the tags won’t grow back.”
Who gets skin tags?
Skin tags are common. About half of all adults will develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime. People can develop them as early as their 20s, but they are most common after age 40. Skin tags do not go away without treatment.
Experts aren’t sure what causes skin tags, but they may “run in the family.” They are more common in people with certain health conditions, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, human papilloma virus (HPV) and a genetic disorder called Birt-Hogg-Dube Syndrome. Skin tags may also form simply due to friction and irritation in skin folds.
It’s important to know the difference between harmless skin tags and skin cancer. Skin cancer lesions may have irregular shapes or colors and can bleed.
Early detection of skin cancer is very important. If a skin growth changes in size or color, see a doctor.
Can you safely remove skin tags at home?
Home remedies can be helpful and are popular because of their convenience. Common home remedies include tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, toothpaste and over-the-counter freezing kits.
While home remedies are less invasive, their effectiveness varies. They can be risky if used incorrectly. They are often not recommended because of the risks.
“There’s no clinical evidence that toothpaste or any other home remedies are effective in removing skin tags, and you risk infecting or irritating the skin,” says Dr. Afshar says.
If home remedies are used, precautions should be taken to minimize risks, including:
- Ensuring all tools, like surgical scissors, are sterilized before use
- Avoiding excessive force or pulling during the removal process
- Seeking professional advice for tags in sensitive or hard-to-reach areas
Always make sure any product you use is safe for your skin type. If you are unsure, ask your doctor for advice before starting at-home treatments.
Dr. Afshar recommends against trying to shave or cut them off on your own because of the risk of severe bleeding, infection or scarring.
How do doctors remove skin tags?
The safest way to remove skin tags is to make an appointment with a dermatologist, who can do it effectively in a sterile environment.
Most skin tags can be removed right in the doctor’s office using one of these methods:
Excision
Your doctor will numb the area and cut off the skin tag with sterilized scissors or a scalpel.
Electrocautery
An electrified wire is used to burn through the stalk that attaches the tag to the skin. The heat helps minimize bleeding.
Cryosurgery
A cold liquid nitrogen is applied to the tag. This will freeze it, causing it to fall off. It may leave a small blister that will heal on its own in a few days.
Laser removal
A special laser is used to remove the skin tag. Your doctor may numb the area first. Laser removal may leave a tiny wound that will heal.
Removal by doctor is low-risk procedure
Removing a skin tag is generally a low-risk procedure, but bleeding from the site is common. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for caring at home. Keeping the site clean is the first step to prevent infection.
Watch the area for any changes, like more redness or swelling. These can be early signs of infection.
If scabbing happens, let it fall off on its own. Picking at it can cause scarring or reopen the wound. This can slow down healing. If you have any concerns while healing, seek medical advice.