Skin tags (acrochordons) are common, noncancerous growths that appear on the skin, often causing cosmetic concern or physical irritation. These small, soft flaps of tissue are harmless, but their appearance or location can prompt a desire for removal. Dermatologists specialize in the diagnosis and safe removal of these growths. This article explores what skin tags are, the professional removal methods, and the complications of attempting removal at home.
What Exactly Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags (acrochordons) are small, benign tumors consisting of fibrous tissue, fat cells, and blood vessels covered by an outer layer of skin. They are soft, flesh-colored, and often attached to the body by a small stalk, known as a peduncle. Most skin tags are small, ranging from the size of a grain of rice up to five millimeters, though some can grow larger.
These growths typically form in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the armpits, neck, groin folds, and under the breasts. Friction is considered a primary mechanical cause for their development.
Genetic predisposition, hormonal, and metabolic factors also contribute to their formation. A higher incidence is observed in individuals who are overweight, obese, or have insulin resistance, diabetes, or hormonal fluctuations (e.g., during pregnancy). While the exact cause is not fully understood, nearly half the general population develops at least one skin tag in their lifetime.
Professional Skin Tag Removal Procedures
Dermatologists ensure skin tag removal is safe, sterile, and yields the best cosmetic result. Before removal, the dermatologist examines the growth with a dermatoscope to confirm it is a benign acrochordon, not a more concerning lesion like a mole or basal cell carcinoma. This diagnostic step is essential.
The choice of technique depends on the tag’s size, location, and whether the tissue requires pathological examination.
Excision (Snip Removal)
Excision is a common and quick method, particularly for small, pedunculated tags. The dermatologist cleans the area, may administer a local anesthetic, and then uses sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel to snip the tag off at its base.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery involves applying liquid nitrogen to the skin tag, which rapidly freezes and destroys the tissue. The tag will blister and eventually fall off within days to a few weeks. This method is often preferred for multiple smaller skin tags and requires no anesthesia, though temporary redness or blistering may occur.
Electrocautery
Electrocautery uses a heated probe or electrical current to burn off the skin tag at its stalk. This technique provides immediate results and simultaneously cauterizes the wound, minimizing bleeding and reducing infection risk. Electrocautery is effective for larger skin tags, and a local anesthetic is typically administered beforehand for patient comfort.
Risks Associated with At-Home Removal
Attempting to remove a skin tag at home using non-sterile tools, such as scissors, nail clippers, or over-the-counter kits, carries serious risks.
One primary danger is infection, as household tools are not sterile and can introduce bacteria into the open wound. This can lead to pain, swelling, and severe localized infection requiring medical attention.
Another risk is excessive bleeding, since skin tags contain tiny blood vessels that can bleed profusely when improperly cut. Attempting removal without precision often results in incomplete removal, causing the tag to regrow, or leading to scarring, discoloration, and damage to the surrounding healthy skin.
The most concerning risk of self-removal is misdiagnosis. A growth that appears harmless could be a more serious condition, such as a precancerous mole or skin cancer like basal cell carcinoma. Removing a potentially malignant lesion at home delays the necessary diagnostic biopsy and treatment, allowing the condition to progress unchecked. Consulting a dermatologist ensures the growth is correctly identified before removal.