Skin tags (medically known as acrochordons) are common benign skin growths that typically form where there’s constant friction with clothing or another surface, often around areas like armpits. While harmless in themselves, skin tags may become bothersome or cosmetically undesirable for some individuals and removal may be desired for aesthetic or health reasons. If considering skin tag removal, it’s crucial that you understand its causes, treatment options and what can be expected during the removal process; here is an extensive guide that can assist.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are small flesh-colored growths attached to the skin by thin stalks called peduncles that protrude through it and typically hang off of various body areas like necks, armpits, groins, eyelids or under breasts. While noncancerous in nature they usually remain pain free unless repeatedly rubbed by clothing or jewelry which could potentially irritate them over time.
Reasons behind Skin Tags
While their exact cause remains elusive, several factors could potentially contribute to their formation:
- Friction:Skin tags typically form where skin rubs against other parts of the body or clothing, such as the neck, underarms and groin.
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy can increase your chance of skin tags developing while hormonal fluctuations could also contribute to their formation. Age: Skin tags tend to increase with age.
- Genetics: While skin tags don’t always form from genetic predisposition alone, their development could be affected by your genes.
Treatment Options Available for Skin Tag Removal.
As there are various treatments for skin tags available depending on their size, location and individual preferences:
1. Cryotherapy:
Cryotherapy involves freezing skin tags using liquid nitrogen, prompting their gradual expulsion over days to weeks.
2. Electrosurgery:
Your dermatologist can use high-frequency electric current to safely burn off skin tags quickly with little risk for scarring. This process typically works quickly with minimal scarring results.
3. Ligigation:
To successfully treat skin tags using this technique, their bases can be tied off using surgical thread or special bands and their blood supply cut off, eventually leading to their natural removal from their site of origin.
4. Excision
A dermatologist can use either surgical scissors or scalpels to cut away skin tags using local anesthetic, for an easier procedure.
5. Over-The-Counter Treatments:
There are various OTC creams, ointments and patches marketed as skin tag removal solutions available on store shelves today that claim they can effectively dry out skin tags over time. These remedies typically work by drying them out gradually.
What To Expect After Skin Tag Removal (PDF)
Home or professional skin tag removal typically results in some level of mild discomfort, redness or swelling around the area where they were removed. Following specific instructions provided by healthcare providers regarding post-excision care to promote healing and minimize risks such as infections. Scarring may occasionally occur with certain removal methods; scarring could become particularly evident if removing large skin tags is involved.
When Should a Dermatologist Be Seek Out?
Though skin tags tend to be harmless, if symptoms such as:
You should see your physician immediately if any skin tags change their appearance, become painful, bleed frequently or rapidly grow in number or are found in sensitive locations like eyelids or the genital area. Or if there’s doubt as to whether a growth could be classified as skin tag.
Conclusion
Skin tag removal is an increasingly common procedure used to address benign growths that are bothersome or cosmetically undesirable, including skin tags. Knowing their causes, treatment options and potential outcomes is vital when making informed decisions about your own skin health – professional removal by dermatologist or home remedies; prioritizing safety when considering either option while consulting a healthcare provider to gain personalized guidance is always advised for optimal results and enhanced well-being. By effectively dealing with skin tags you can achieve smoother, clearer skin while increasing feelings of wellbeing overall.