There are several methods of skin tag removal, from cautery to freezing with liquid nitrogen. Most methods of skin tag removal are not painful, although numbing injections may minimize discomfort. Some methods require a trip to a doctor, so numbing cream is often recommended. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgical excision to ensure a complete removal of the tag. If you suspect a tag is cancerous, you should seek medical advice.
While skin tag removal is relatively easy to perform at home, it should not be attempted on your own. Doing so can result in a significant amount of bleeding and can lead to an infection. Moreover, you might not be able to remove the entire tag, which would cause a scar. You may need to visit a dermatologist for the procedure. You should consult with your physician about any medications you’re taking, as some medicines can alter your clotting time and may increase the risk of infection.
Besides visiting a dermatologist, you can also try DIY methods of skin tag removal. Some people opt for using dental floss to remove their skin tags, while others use over-the-counter wart removal creams or cryotherapy kits to freeze skin tags. However, despite their effectiveness, these home methods are not recommended for serious skin conditions, and may cause side effects. A dermatologist will be able to evaluate your skin tag and advise you on the best course of action.
Skin tags are benign growths of skin that often appear in areas of friction. They are usually found on areas of the body where people sweat frequently, including the neck and armpits. Some skin tags grow unnoticed, but the presence of friction can make them larger. In some cases, skin tags are caused by genetics or extra weight. And while there’s no clear explanation for why skin tags develop, experts believe that pregnancy and aging increase the risk of skin tags.
A blood sugar disorder is another cause of skin tags. It can also cause dark spots, blisters, and open sores. Rare genetic conditions can be the culprit. In fact, the Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome can cause lung cancer, and the Cowden syndrome increases the risk of developing skin, breast, and kidney cancer. In men, skin tags show up equally as often as in women, and they affect both sexes. They also occur in every ethnicity and race.
If you don’t feel comfortable with the idea of removing your skin tag, you can take it to your doctor yourself. Most skin tags won’t cause any symptoms, but they can become inflamed if you rub them against clothes or jewelry. Without treatment, they will continue to grow. A dermatologist can remove skin tags for both cosmetic and health reasons. It is possible to submit a sample of a skin tag for pathology testing to rule out a possible diagnosis of skin cancer.
Home remedies for skin tag removal are widely available on the Internet, but they’re not a healthy option. While some of them might work, there’s a high risk of infection, bleeding, and scarring. While natural home remedies may be tempting, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist before doing anything. Many natural remedies, like vinegar, may lead to a chemical burn and scarring. If the skin tag has a blood supply, you may want to remove it with a band or a patch.
