Skin tags are soft, noncancerous growths on the skin. They usually form where the skin folds, on neck, armpits, breasts, groin area, and eyelids, though they can form in other areas of the body. Skin tags are formed by loose collagen fibres that become stuck inside larger areas of the skin. Skin tags are generally harmless and painless, and only cause irritation if they are caught on clothing or jewellery. Skin tags that itch, hurt, or grow rapidly or change in shape might be caused by a more serious condition, and should be examined by your doctor.
Skin tags are caused when the body produces extra collagen cells in the skin’s top layers. These extra cells are often produced in areas where the skin naturally rubs against itself.
If you have skin tags, there are some non-surgical options you may wish to investigate for their removal.
A fractional CO2 laser treatment passes microscopic columns of energy into deep layers of the skin, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. The process allows for controlled damage to the cells, triggering the skin’s natural healing process.
Fractional radiofrequency (RF) laser devices use silicone needles to deliver a fractionated RF electrical impulse into deep layers of the skin and/or fat. This treatment can eliminate unwanted skin growths and lesions, including skin tags.
Cryotherapy procedures freeze unwanted growths, such as skin tags, to enable their removal from the skin.
If you are not interested in having a non-invasive cosmetic procedure performed to eliminate your skin tag, you may find that some home remedies are effective in reducing or eliminating them.
Tea tree oil may dehydrate skin tags, causing them to fall off of the skin. While there is no scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of this approach, some anecdotal evidence exists.
Banana peels contain antioxidants that may dry out skin tags, causing them to fall off. To try this treatment, place a small slice of banana peel on the skin tag, and cover it with a bandage. Repeat this treatment nightly.
The acidity of apple cider vinegar may break down the tissue surrounding the skin tag, which will cause the skin tag to fall off. To try this treatment, soak a cotton swab in apple cider vinegar and hold it against the skin tag for 15-20 minutes (you can wrap the area in a bandage).
Since vitamin E is an antioxidant that keeps skin healthy, applying Vitamin E to the skin topically may cause the growth to disappear.
Garlic reduces inflammation, and applying garlic to a skin tag may cause the tag to shrink. To try this treatment, crush some garlic and apply it to the skin tag. Repeat the treatment until the skin tag is eliminated.
If a skin tag is removed by a professional healthcare provider or clinical technician, it is not likely to return after treatment.
Check out our before and after section here!
The cost of fixing a skin tag will depend on your treatment choice, as well as the size of the skin tag being treated and whether you require the removal of multiple skin tags.
What are warts and skin tags? What causes warts and skin tags?
Patients suffering from skin tags will start their skincare journey with a complete consultation which will explain warts and skin tags, diagnose the wart or skin tag, explain what they are and how to treat them. Warts and skin tags are characterized by pigmented or non-pigmented raised lesions or small raised fleshy areas. They are imperfections in the skin, either raised or flat. The cause of these is unknown however, they are treatable. SpaMedica Dermatologists will treat your warts and skin tags with a variety of treatments and lasers to reduce their appearance.
For a comprehensive guide on the differences, causes, and treatments of warts, moles, and skin tags, read our detailed article.
Can I treat my wart and skin tags and if so, what treatment options do I have?
Patients with warts and skin tags can be treated with a variety of options at SpaMedica. Our dermatologist will treat the wart and skin tags with specific lasers or topical treatments depending upon the type of skin condition you have. The Vbeam, Accolade, Affinity, Cynergy, Quantum and Elite technologies all produce a variety of wavelengths that can safely and effectively reduce skin tags and other skin conditions. SpaMedica dermatologists may treat the wart or skin tag by using liquid nitrogen or a hyfrecator, which is a low power, high-frequency AC electrical current that is used for in-office procedures. Three or more treatments may be required to produce satisfactory results. Your dermatologist will create a customized treatment program for improving your skin and eliminating skin imperfections.
At SpaMedica, our team of professional clinicians will work with you to determine the right procedure for removing your skin tag or skin tags. Whether you would prefer laser treatment or cryotherapy, we will discuss your options with you while working to make sure you understand how each procedure is performed, as well as any necessary aftercare or recovery instructions. Contact the clinic to book your consultation today!
The fractional C02 laser treats superficial and deep skin layers to rejuvenate, tighten and brighten the skin.
Erbium laser skin resurfacing removes the upper layer of the skin to reveal smoother and younger-looking skin.
