What are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are extremely common benign growths that develop in areas where the skin creases or folds over on itself – like the neck, armpits, eyelids, and even under the breasts of females.
Causes of Skin Tags
There are thought to be three main causes of skin tags. One cause is the friction caused by skin rubbing against itself or another surface, like our clothing. Another is weight gain, likely from increased insulin in the body. The third reason is likely a genetic predisposition to their growth.
Skin Tag Removal
Skin tag removal is generally not recommended at home because of risk of infection and bleeding as they tend to have a large blood supply. Some methods for skin tag removal are:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing of the skin tag with liquid nitrogen
- Snip Excision:Removal using sterilized scissors with local anesthesia
- Cautery: Smaller skin tags may be cauterized easily with a hyfrecator
Treatment is not necessary, however, as skin tags are generally harmless. Some people may choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons which is not covered by most insurances unless the skin tag is visibly irritated.
For more information on skin tag removal, contact Nova Dermatology today.
