Are those small soft skin growths on your skin bothering you? Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are pretty common, affecting millions of people around the world. Don't worry, though, skin tags are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, that does not mean you have to live with them if they bother you.
While skin tags are harmless, many people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or because they can snag on clothing or jewelry, causing irritation. If you are looking for options to get rid of your skin tags, you are in luck! There are several professional treatments and home remedies available for skin tag removal.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are tiny growths made up of excess collagen and blood vessels that hang off the surface of your skin. They usually match your skin tone, but sometimes they can be a bit darker or pink. These fleshy growths tend to show up in areas where there is friction. They appear where the skin rubs between your armpits, groin, or under your breasts. They can also pop up on your neck, eyelids, or even around your belly.
The exact reason why skin tags form is not entirely clear, but friction definitely seems to play a role. The constant rubbing can irritate the skin, and the body responds by creating a little extra padding. Over time, this extra tissue can form into a small, raised tag. While they are generally harmless, skin irritation from rubbing clothes or jewelry can sometimes make them bothersome.
Causes of Skin Tags
If you are wondering how to get rid of skin tags, it is important that you know why skin tags develop in the first place. Here are some of the common culprits to blame:
Genetics: Some traits run in the family. If your parents have skin tags, you might be more prone to getting them too.
Friction: As we mentioned earlier, constant rubbing against skin or clothing seems to be a major trigger. It is your body's way of trying to protect itself from irritation by creating a little extra padding.
Certain Medical Conditions: While not a direct cause, some health conditions like type 2 diabetes can be linked to a higher chance of developing skin tags. This is likely because these conditions can affect how your body regulates cell growth.
Skin tags are benign. But it is always a good idea to be aware of any changes in your skin. If you have a spot that is bleeding, crusty, or rapidly growing, it is best to get it checked out by a dermatologist to rule out anything more serious like skin cancer.
Diagnosis of Skin Tags
Diagnosing skin tags is easy. In most cases, a simple visit to your doctor or dermatologist is all it takes. They will likely be able to diagnose a skin tag by taking a good look at it. There is no need for tests or procedures.
Home Remedies for Removing Skin Tags
You may have got some skin tags and you are curious about tackling them yourself. It is quite natural to wonder how to get rid of a skin tag at home. Let's explore a few home remedy options:
Here is the secret to eliminate skin tags at home:
Tea Tree Oil
This essential oil has natural antiseptic properties. Some people dab diluted tea tree oil on the skin tag hoping it will dry it out and cause it to fall off. Always dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying it to your skin, as pure tea tree oil can be irritating.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The acidity of apple cider vinegar might help break down the skin tag tissue. People soak a cotton swab in vinegar and hold it on the tag, but be careful not to get it on the surrounding skin as it can cause a burning sensation.
Dental Floss Tying
This method involves tying a piece of dental floss tightly around the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply. The idea is that the tag will eventually dry up and fall off. However, this can be quite painful and carries a high risk of infection if not done properly.
While these remedies might seem tempting, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before attempting any DIY skin tag removal. They can advise you on the safest and most effective options for your specific situation. Plus, there is always a risk of skin irritation or incomplete removal, which could leave a scar or require professional attention later.
Professional Treatments for Skin Tags
DIY skin tag removal can be risky and a bit nerve-wracking. If you are looking for a safe way to remove a skin tag, there are a few professional options your dermatologist can offer:
Cryotherapy for Tags
This procedure uses liquid nitrogen, which is extremely cold, to freeze and destroy the skin tag. Your doctor will likely numb the area first to minimize discomfort. Once frozen, the skin tag will eventually blister and fall off. Cryotherapy is a quick and effective option for most small to medium-sized skin tags.
Surgical Scissors
This is a simple in-office procedure where your dermatologist removes the skin tag with sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel. They will numb the area beforehand to make it as comfortable as possible. This method is a good choice for larger skin tags or those located in sensitive areas.
Electrocautery
This technique uses a high-frequency electric current to burn off the skin tag. Similar to the other options, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area first. Electrocautery is a good option for removing skin tags that have a tendency to bleed.
Mistakes to Avoid in Skin Tag Removal
Now let's talk about some common mistakes to avoid when it comes to how to get rid of a skin tag.
Don't Think You Are a DIY Specialist: Resist the urge to become a home surgeon. Skin tags, especially larger ones, have a blood supply. Trying to cut them off yourself with unsterilized tools can lead to infection and scarring.
Size of the Skin Tags: While some home remedies might be okay for tiny skin tags, they are not effective (or safe) for larger ones. It is better to leave those bigger tags to the hands of professionals.
Be Mindful of Chemicals: Harsh chemicals like concentrated acids can seriously irritate your skin and surrounding tissue. So do not try any DIY chemical option at home.
The skin is your body's largest organ, and it deserves to be treated with care. If you are considering how do you remove skin tags, consult a dermatologist. They can recommend the safest option for you.
When to See a Professional
While most skin tags are harmless, there are a few times when it is best to see a professional. If a skin tag suddenly changes in size, color, or shape, get it checked out by a dermatologist. This could be a sign of something more serious.
If a skin tag becomes red, swollen, or painful, it could be infected. See a doctor for treatment. Skin tags on your eyelids or other delicate areas are best removed by a professional to minimize the risk of complications.
FAQs Section
Can skin tags grow back after removal?
While uncommon, skin tags can reappear in the same spot after removal. This is more likely if they were removed with a simple tying method.
Are there any pain-free methods to remove skin tags?
Cryotherapy is generally considered a well-tolerated option. You can use skin tag removal creams as well.
How can I prevent skin tags from forming?
Maintain a healthy weight and reduce friction in areas prone to skin tags.
How can you remove skin tags yourself?
It's recommended to avoid at-home removal. Professional options are safer, especially for larger or sensitive skin tags.
