Skin tags are common, benign skin growths many people consider removing, especially if they cause irritation or cosmetic concern. While at-home removal might seem convenient, it carries significant complexities and potential consequences. Professional guidance ensures safe and effective treatment.
Understanding Skin Tags
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are soft, non-cancerous growths that typically match the skin’s color or appear slightly darker. They often manifest as small, wrinkly bumps, sometimes attached by a tiny stalk. These growths commonly form in areas where skin rubs against itself, such as the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and under the breasts. Most skin tags measure between 1-5 millimeters, though some can grow to several centimeters.
While the precise cause is not fully understood, factors like friction, genetics, aging, obesity, and certain health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance are associated with their development. They are harmless and do not cause pain unless irritated by clothing or jewelry. Approximately 50% to 60% of adults will develop at least one skin tag in their lifetime, with prevalence increasing after the age of 40.
Risks of Self-Removal
Attempting to remove skin tags at home carries several risks. A primary concern is potential bleeding, as skin tags contain blood vessels, and improper cutting can lead to bleeding that is difficult to control. The small stalk connecting the tag to the skin also contains tiny nerves, making self-removal a painful experience without proper anesthesia.
Another risk is infection. Using non-sterile tools like scissors, nail clippers, or razors introduces bacteria into the open wound, creating an environment conducive to infection. An infection can lead to complications, pain, and may require medical intervention, including antibiotics. Improper cutting techniques can also result in permanent scarring, which may be more noticeable than the original skin tag.
The most serious danger of self-removal is misdiagnosis. What appears to be a benign skin tag might actually be a more serious skin condition, such as a wart, a seborrheic keratosis, or even skin cancer. Removing such a growth without proper medical evaluation can delay the diagnosis and appropriate treatment of a potentially serious underlying issue. Medical professionals advise against self-diagnosis and self-treatment of any skin growths.
Safe Removal Options
When removal is desired, healthcare professionals offer several safe and effective methods. Cryotherapy involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, destroying cells and causing the tag to fall off within 10 to 14 days. Surgical excision involves a dermatologist using sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel to precisely cut the skin tag at its base, often after numbing the area.
Electrocauterization, also known as cauterization or electrosurgery, utilizes an electric current to burn off the skin tag. This technique can also help seal blood vessels, minimizing bleeding. Ligation involves tying off the skin tag at its base with a surgical thread, which cuts off the blood supply and causes the tag to eventually fall off. These professional methods minimize risks like infection, excessive bleeding, and scarring because they are performed in a sterile environment with appropriate tools and expertise.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a healthcare professional for any skin tag that exhibits concerning changes or causes discomfort. Medical evaluation is advised if a skin tag becomes painful, starts bleeding without trauma, or shows rapid growth. Changes in color or shape, or if the tag develops a crusted or ulcerated surface, also warrant immediate professional attention.
Seek medical advice if a skin tag is located in a sensitive area causing persistent irritation, such as on the eyelids or in areas prone to rubbing against clothing or jewelry. Even if removal is not the immediate goal, a doctor can accurately diagnose the growth to ensure it is a benign skin tag and not a more serious condition. This professional assessment provides reassurance and guides appropriate management for skin health.