Skin tags are common, small, benign growths that typically appear as soft, skin-colored or brownish flaps of tissue. These growths often emerge in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, or eyelids. One widely used and effective method for their removal is cryotherapy, which involves freezing the skin tag using a very cold substance, usually liquid nitrogen. This article will explain what happens to a skin tag after it has been frozen and the typical timeframe for its complete removal.
The Timeline for Skin Tag Removal
After cryotherapy, the treated skin tag typically takes one to two weeks to fall off. This timeframe is an average, varying from a few days to several weeks depending on several factors. Smaller skin tags often detach more quickly, sometimes within just a few days.
The skin tag’s location also influences detachment speed; tags in areas with less movement or friction might heal at a different rate. An individual’s healing capacity affects the speed of tissue regeneration and detachment. The depth and intensity of the freezing application during cryotherapy can also affect the timeline, with a more thorough freeze leading to quicker detachment.
What to Expect During the Healing Process
Immediately after cryotherapy, the treated skin tag may appear red, blanched, or white due to the cold. Within hours, the area might develop redness and mild swelling, indicating the body’s inflammatory response. Over the next 24 to 48 hours, a blister, which may be clear or blood-filled, can form on or at the base of the treated skin tag.
This blistering indicates the tissue has been effectively frozen and is separating from healthy skin. The blister typically dries and flattens within days, causing the skin tag to turn dark, often black, as its cells die. This darkened, shriveled tag then forms a crust or scab, which eventually detaches, taking the skin tag with it. Mild discomfort, itching, or tenderness around the treated area is common and usually temporary during this period.
Aftercare and When to Seek Medical Advice
Proper aftercare promotes healing and prevents complications after cryotherapy. Keeping the treated area clean and dry is essential to avoid infection. Gently wash the site daily with mild soap and water, then pat dry. Avoid picking, scratching, or forcefully removing the scab or skin tag, as this can delay healing or introduce bacteria.
If the treated area exhibits persistent or worsening pain, excessive redness that spreads beyond the initial site, increased swelling, or discharge of pus, medical attention should be sought promptly. These symptoms could indicate an infection or another adverse reaction requiring professional assessment. Similarly, if the skin tag does not fall off within the expected timeframe of several weeks, or if it appears to regrow after detaching, consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management is advisable.