What are skin tags?

Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that hang off the skin. They are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker and often occur on areas of the body where skin rubs against skin, such as the neck, armpits, or groin. While skin tags are generally harmless and do not require medical treatment, some people may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons or if they are causing discomfort.

How are skin tags removed?

• Skin tags can be removed by a dermatologist using several methods, including:
• Snipping – The dermatologist uses a pair of sterile scissors to snip the skin tag off at the base.
• Freezing – The dermatologist applies liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag, causing it to fall off within a few days.
• Burning – The dermatologist uses an electric current to burn off the skin tag.
• Ligation – The dermatologist ties off the base of the skin tag with a surgical suture, cutting off the blood supply and causing it to fall off.

Does skin tag removal hurt?

Skin tag removal is generally not painful, as the area is usually numbed with a local anesthetic before the procedure. Some people may experience a slight burning or stinging sensation during the procedure, but this is typically mild and goes away quickly.

How long does skin tag removal take?

The length of time it takes to remove a skin tag depends on the method used. Snipping or burning off a skin tag usually takes just a few minutes, while freezing or ligation may take several days for the skin tag to fall off completely.

What are the aftercare instructions for skin tag removal?

After skin tag removal, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. Your dermatologist may recommend applying an antibiotic ointment and covering the area with a bandage for a few days. You should avoid strenuous activity or exposing the area to water or sunlight until it has completely healed. If you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, you should contact your dermatologist right away.