What Are Skin Tags?
A skin tag is a growth that looks like an extension of your skin. They usually develop in specific areas of your body, such as your neck, groin, or armpits.
We care for you with a collaborative, team-based approach. Our dermatologists, plastic surgeons, primary care providers, advanced practice providers, and estheticians work together to get you the right treatment from the right expert. Our team has access to the latest advanced cosmetic skin care treatment tools. This means we can customize your treatment plan with the most effective option for you.
When to Remove a Skin Tag
You may choose to get a skin tag removed if it’s causing uncomfortable symptoms:
- Bleeding
- Catching on your clothing
- Itching
You can also get a skin tag removed because you don’t like how it looks. But most insurance plans don’t cover skin tag removal unless it’s causing health problems. Our team will help you understand your costs before treatment.
What to Expect During a Skin Tag Removal Procedure
We remove skin tags with a short office procedure. These procedures are simple and don’t require any numbing medicine.
Your provider uses one of two techniques to remove a skin tag:
- Skin tag freezing—We apply liquid nitrogen to the skin tag. This causes the tag to freeze. It will flake off after a few days.
- Skin tag snipping—We use sharp surgical scissors to cut the skin tag. We will pick up the skin tag with tweezers, then quickly cut it at its narrowest point.
Does Skin Tag Removal Hurt?
Skin tag removals may sting a little. However, because they’re quick procedures, you’ll feel little to no discomfort.
Skin Tag Removal Healing Time
You may have a small bandage over the area where we removed the skin tag. You don’t need to do anything special to take care of this area. Most people heal within a few days and have no significant scarring. Scars are usually the size of a pinhead.
Can You Remove Skin Tags at Home?
You should never remove skin tags at home. There are several risks to at-home removal:
- Increased chance of infection from non-sterile tools
- Uncontrolled bleeding
Some people remove a skin growth that they mistake for a skin tag. This can cause infections and additional health problems.
Several over-the-counter remedies claim to treat skin growths at home. These home remedies aren’t safe, and you should never use them.
Find a Dermatologist or Esthetician for Skin Tag Removal
Schedule a Consultation
Request a consultation with our cosmetic and skincare services. You don’t need a referral to schedule an appointment. But your insurance plan may require a referral to pay for your treatment. Our team will help you understand your insurance requirements and costs before treatment.
