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skin tag experts
in san antonio
What are Skin tags?
Skin tags are small, benign growths which can appear anywhere on the skin. They are typically flesh colored, slightly darker, or even pink and ranging in size. Skin tags are often soft to the touch and may have a stalk like structure which connects it to the skin. Despite them being harmless, skin tags can be bothersome or cosmetically undesirable. If you are interested in skin tag removal, schedule an appointment today!
Several factors contribute to skin tag formation:
Friction: Continuous rubbing or irritation from clothing or skin-to-skin contact.
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy or hormonal imbalances can play a role.
Health Conditions: Obesity and diabetes are associated with higher skin tag occurrence.
Why Do Skin Tags Develop?
Common areas for skin tags to form
Skin tags typically develop in areas where the skin experiences friction or rubbing. Common locations include:
Under the Breasts: Where skin folds or clothing causes irritation.
Groin: Areas with frequent friction or movement.
Neck: Especially where skin folds or jewelry may cause rubbing.
Underarms: Where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
Eyelids: Due to the thin, delicate skin and potential for irritation.
Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy or conditions such as obesity and diabetes may increase the likelihood of developing skin tags.
Although skin tags are benign and do not pose serious health concerns, we recommend that you schedule an appointment so that we can provide you a proper diagnosis!
Methods of Skin tag removal
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Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves freezing the skin tag using liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold causes the tissue to freeze and eventually fall off.
Procedure: A small amount of liquid nitrogen is applied to the skin tag, causing it to freeze and form a blister. The skin tag typically falls off within a few days to a week.
Recovery: The treated area may develop a blister and then a scab, which heals within a couple of weeks. This method is generally quick and effective for smaller skin tags.
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Electrosurgery
Electrosurgery uses a high-frequency electric current to burn off the skin tag. This method is effective for removing larger or multiple skin tags.
Procedure: The area is numbed with a local anesthetic, and an electric current is applied to the skin tag using a specialized tool. The current heats and burns away the skin tag.
Recovery: The area may be red and sore initially, with a small crust forming as it heals. Most patients experience minimal downtime.
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Surgical Excision
Surgical excision involves cutting the skin tag off with a scalpel. This method is used for larger or more deeply-rooted skin tags.
Procedure: The skin tag is removed with a scalpel after numbing the area with a local anesthetic. The wound is then closed with sutures if necessary.
Recovery: There may be some discomfort and a need for stitches, but healing typically occurs within a few weeks. This method ensures complete removal of the skin tag.
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Ligation
Ligation involves tying a small, tight band around the base of the skin tag. This cuts off the blood supply, causing the skin tag to wither and fall off.
Procedure: A small band is placed around the base of the skin tag, which restricts blood flow. The skin tag will eventually dry out and fall off.
Recovery: The area may be slightly irritated, but recovery is generally quick. This method is particularly useful for small skin tags.
FAQS
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Despite being harmless, skin tags may provide discomfort, irritation, or cause cosmetic concerns. That being said, the choice to remove them is up to you! Learn more about the removal process below.
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After consulting with your dermatologist to develop a precise diagnosis, your dermatologist may suggest the following methods of removal.
Cryotherapy (Freezing): Liquid nitrogen is applied to the skin tag(s), freezing and causing it to fall off after a few treatments.
Electrosurgery: The dermatologist uses an electrical current to burn the skin tag(s) off.
Excision: The dermatologist may cut the skin tag(s) out using a scalpel, especially if the skin tag(s) is large or hasn't responded to other treatments.
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Being that skin tags are benign, they are not something to worry about. However, if you are seeing signs of infection, including pain, bleeding, or new growth, consult with your dermatologist to understand the source of infection.
Know your skin!
spot the difference between various skin growths
Three key distinctions among moles, warts, and skin tags include the following. Moles, raised or flat, often present from birth and tend to increase with age. Warts, caused by a viral infection of skin cells, persist until the body's immune system or prescribed therapies successfully combat the infected cells. On the other hand, skin tags, form in friction-prone areas such as the neck or underarms and can be easily removed. To determine your skin condition, it is advised to consult a dermatologist and undergo regular yearly skin checks.
Meet our Dermatologists
TESSA CERVANTES, MD
Milton Moore, MD
