A skin tag remover pen is a specialized, handheld device designed for at-home removal of small, benign skin growths. These tools use plasma technology, where a high-frequency electrical current creates a controlled, micro-fine plasma arc. This arc delivers thermal energy to desiccate and vaporize the targeted tissue, safely eliminating the skin tag.
Pre-Treatment Assessment and Preparation
The most important step before using a home removal device is ensuring the growth is truly a benign skin tag. Skin tags (acrochordons) are soft, flesh-colored, and attached by a small stalk, often appearing in areas of friction like the neck or armpits. If a growth is dark, bleeds, changes rapidly, or has an irregular border, a medical professional must examine it to rule out serious conditions like melanoma.
Once the target is confirmed, preparing the device and the skin is necessary for a sterile procedure. Charge the pen and select the appropriate fine needle tip for greater precision. Clean the target area thoroughly with mild soap and water or an alcohol wipe to remove surface oils, dirt, or bacteria.
The skin tag is highly sensitive, so applying a topical anesthetic cream 20 to 30 minutes before the procedure can reduce discomfort. After the numbing cream takes effect, wipe it away entirely, ensuring the skin is completely dry. Perform a patch test on an inconspicuous area using the lowest power setting to gauge your skin’s reaction.
Step-by-Step Removal Technique
Set the device to its lowest intensity setting, as this is adequate for most small skin tags. Only increase the power if the lowest setting fails after brief applications, which may be necessary for larger tags. Stabilizing the skin by gently stretching the area taut helps ensure the thermal energy focuses directly on the growth.
The most effective method is the non-contact “dotting” technique, where the needle tip is held just above the skin tag to create the plasma arc. Activate the pen and rapidly dab or “dot” the tip across the surface of the tag, avoiding dragging it across the skin. This controlled application allows the plasma energy to cauterize the tissue layer by layer.
As the plasma arc works, the tissue will immediately desiccate, resulting in a visible carbon crust or black spot. Continue the dotting motion until the skin tag is carbonized and appears shrunken or fully detached. If the tag is large, a gentle sweeping motion may be used, but precision is paramount to avoid damaging surrounding healthy skin.
Managing the Healing Process and Expectations
Immediately following the procedure, the treated area will feel warm, similar to a mild sunburn; slight swelling is a normal response. The blackened area, known as a carbon crust, is a protective layer crucial for healing. Apply a thin layer of a soothing ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to protect the wound.
Keep the carbon crust dry and clean, washing the area gently with mild soap and water twice daily. The crust typically remains in place for seven to fourteen days. Do not pick, scratch, or forcefully remove it, as interfering with natural shedding increases the risk of infection and scarring.
The skin underneath the fallen scab will appear pink and tender, indicating new tissue. Full healing, where the treated area blends with the surrounding skin, can take four to twelve weeks. Avoid direct sun exposure, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily to prevent hyperpigmentation. Seek medical attention if you notice signs of complication, such as excessive redness, increasing pain, spreading swelling, or pus.