What are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are groups of skin cells attached to a tiny stem. They typically are small, growing to 1 to 5 millimeters in size, but they can grow larger and may look like warts or moles.
Where You May Notice Skin Tags
Skin tags often develop in areas where skin rubs against the skin or clothing rubs against the skin. It’s common to notice skin tags in folds of skin. The most common areas in which skin tags are found are the eyelids, neck, armpits, thighs, groin, folds under the breast, or the genitals.
Why You Should Avoid Over-the-Counter Products to Remove Skin Tags
Over-the-counter products marketed as skin tag removal treatments may contain harmful chemicals, which can cause profuse bleeding, infection, skin damage, and scarring.
When You Should See a Dermatologist for Skin Tag Removal
Skin tags are not cancerous and typically don’t require treatment. You should consider seeing a dermatologist for skin tag removal if you have an irritated or bleeding skin tag. You might also want the skin tag removed if it is in a prominent, noticeable area.
Professional Treatments to Remove Skin Tags
Your dermatologist has several safe, effective treatment options to remove skin tags and may recommend:
- Using liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag
- Destroying the tissue of the skin tag by heating it
- Using an instrument to shave the skin tag
How You Can Help Prevent Skin Tags
You can do a lot to help prevent skin tag formation. You should maintain a healthy weight to reduce the possibility of skin rubbing together. You should also wear loose clothing that doesn’t constrict against your body to avoid clothing rubbing against your skin.
Want To Know More About Skin Tags?
To find out more about the causes and treatment of skin tags, call Dr. Matt Goodman at Goodman Dermatology and Mohs Surgery. You can reach him at (623) 254-7375 in Peoria and Sun City, AZ, so call today.
