Skin tags are growths of skin that protrude from the skin’s surface. They are common in adults and are not harmful but can become bothersome in some cases depending on their location. Commonly, they appear in areas where the skin folds or rubs together, such as the thighs, neck, underarms, under the breasts, or around the eyes.
Although they aren’t harmful, some people elect to have their skin tags removed, either due to irritation or not liking the appearance of the protruding skin. Skin tags can become irritating if they rub against clothes or jewellery or if they are in an uncomfortable area. Additionally, sometimes moles or other skin conditions can be mistaken for skin tags, in which case, it’s best to seek the opinion of a professional to ensure you have a correct diagnosis.
If your skin tags are bothering you, you may speak to a doctor such as Dr Omarjee about potential treatment options in a private consultation at The DOC Clinic.
Consultations at The DOC Clinic
If you wish to identify or remove a skin tag, the first thing to do is consult with a doctor about your concerns and treatment options. Dr Omarjee is an experienced practitioner, able to help patients treat a variety of skin concerns and conditions. He can assess the area and inquire about when it developed, whether it causes you any issues, and whether any testing is required. You can then discuss potential treatment options and what you can anticipate from the results.
Even if you don’t wish to remove the skin tag, it may still be worth getting it checked. Dr Omarjee can explain your options for possible removal, answer any further questions about your skin tags, and help you understand what treatment will involve.
Treatment of Skin Tags (Removal Options)
It is not medically necessary to remove skin tags, and in some cases, they will go away on their own with time. However, if the skin tag is in an inconvenient or bothersome location, you might wish to have it removed. If this is the case, you have several different options, subject to the recommendations of Dr Omarjee, such as Ellman radiofrequency shave, cryotherapy (freezing) and surgical excision. You might seek to remove your skin tags if you have:
- Any pain or discomfort
- Dissatisfaction with their appearance
- Irritation from contact with clothing or jewellery
Following treatment, Dr Omarjee may give you care instructions to encourage the area to heal. This might include carefully washing the area and replacing the dressing in order to keep the area clean, as this helps to prevent infection. The exact instructions for how to care for the treated site will depend on the type of procedure you undergo. Dr Omarjee will also inform you of the risks of your chosen lesion removal treatment and what you can expect as the treated site heals.
Other Considerations
A common question regarding skin tags is: can they be prevented? There is no known way to prevent skin tags, but in general, it is advisable to maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet. Getting regular exercise and avoiding clothing and jewellery that rub against the skin can also help minimise the development of skin tags.
Another common curiosity is whether at-home treatments are appropriate for skin tag removal. The answer is typically no, as home remedies and treatments come with a higher risk of complications, such as skin damage, scarring, and infection. At-home remedies can involve drying out the skin tag and waiting until it reduces in size and drops off, which may not be as effective or efficient as treatment by a professional.
It is important to remember that individuals should never attempt to remove their skin tag by cutting it themselves. This can be harmful and may lead to complications such as infection. If you are unsure of how to safely remove a skin tag, it’s always best to seek the advice of a medical practitioner to ensure your diagnosis and treatment is correct and appropriate. You are welcome to book a private consultation with Dr Omarjee, who will recommend a suitable approach.
Book Your Consultation
If you have concerns about any skin lesions, it is important to get them checked. While skin tags are not dangerous themselves, it is possible to mistake an abnormal and potentially dangerous lesion for something else, like a skin tag. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional who can assess your concerns and recommend options for either cosmetic or medical treatment if necessary.
When in doubt, always consult with a skilled and experienced practitioner such as Dr Omarjee and his team at The DOC Clinic. We treat each patient with individualised and professional care, providing guidance towards the most appropriate treatment option. Book your consultation for more information about skin tags and other skin concerns.
