Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are noncancerous soft growths that typically develop in the armpits, neck, eyelids, breasts, and groin area. Loose collagen fibers become stuck inside thicker regions of the skin, causing these growths.
Skin tags, which affect around half of the population, are also highly -frequent. They are also more common in elderly- people, those who are overweight, or those who have diabetes. These skin sores are typically painless unless touched by jewelry or clothing. Skin tag removal is not necessary unless it is causing pain or you want to remove it for cosmetic reasons.
Skin Tag Causes
Acrochordons form when the body produces more cells in the top layers of the skin. They most typically form in skin folds and regions where natural movement causes the skin to grind against itself.
How likely is it that I will develop skin tags?
Skin tags become more common as people age. You may also be in jeopardy if.
Skin tags run in your family.
Have skin issues such as Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, diabetes, or obesity.
High amounts of growth factors, can occur during pregnancy.
How Do You Remove Skin Tags at Home?
Some home skin tag removal procedures are more effective and safer than others. Many various products on the market can be used to treat skin tags. Consult with a doctor before attempting any of the following.
1. Bands and Patches
A skin tag removal band cuts off blood flow to the skin tag’s root. The cells die without a blood supply, and the tag slips off. This is referred to as ligation.
Medicines are contained in the removal patches. If you leave a patch on the tag for too long, the tag may slip off.
2. cremes
These creams can be useful in specific situations. However, avoid treatments containing tea tree oil or salicylic acid, which can cause skin damage or contact dermatitis. Some of these products’ instructions recommend washing the skin with a moist cloth and filing down the tag before applying the medicine to ensure that it is thoroughly absorbed by the skin. Some of these products claim that the skin tag will fall out in 2-3 weeks.
3. Freezing Supplies
Chemicals in over-the-counter freezing kits lower the temperature of the skin tag. The low temperature destroys irritating skin tissue. Over-the-counter kits, on the other hand, do not drop the temperature sufficiently to act promptly. It may take several applications before you see any results. Dermatologists use liquid nitrogen to cool down the skin. It makes their freezing treatment more effective and faster than over-the-counter skin tag removal methods.
Apple Cider Vinegar 4
Some people claim that soaking a piece of cotton in apple cider vinegar and applying it to the skin with a little bandage would remove a skin tag. The apple cider vinegar process is thought to take up to two weeks to work, although there is no scientific evidence that it works to eliminate skin tags.
Lodine 5
Anecdotal evidence suggests that liquid iodine can be used to remove skin tags. However, there isn’t much study to back this up. Anyone interested in trying it should first apply coconut oil or petroleum jelly to the skin around the tag. After that, dab an iodine-soaked Q-tip on the tag. Bandage the damaged area until the iodine has fully dried. Repeat this method twice a day until the tag is removed.
When Should You Avoid Home Remedies?
Avoid removing skin tags at home if they are near the eyes or genitals, are excessively large or long, and are causing pain, itching, or bleeding. Seek medical attention in such cases.
Professional Services
Skin tag removal is a popular outpatient procedure. After numbing the region with an anesthetic, your doctor will conduct one of the following treatments based on the size and location of the skin tag.
The following are professional skin tag removal treatments:
- Cauterization:
removing the skin tag by burning it off. The majority of tags vanish after a few treatments.
- Cryotherapy:
Use liquid nitrogen to freeze the tag. Most of the time, one or two treatments are sufficient.
- Ligation:
A medical professional ties a surgical thread around the tag to restrict blood flow, causing it to fall out.
- Excision:
Using surgical scissors, your doctor will easily take away the skin tag at its root. The size and location of the skin tag will determine whether stitches or bandages are necessary.
Electrocautery is the fifth method. Your doctor may employ a specialized electric current to burn off the skin tag.
Aftercare
The method used to remove a skin tag dictates how you should care for your skin in the future. You’ll almost probably be told to keep your skin clean and dry. Wash and dry gently once or twice a day.
If the skin tag was surgically removed, you may be required to put a bandage over it for many days. In some cases, leaving the wound exposed may be advised. Your doctor may also advise you to apply antibiotic ointment.
Larger wounds may necessitate stitches. Your healthcare provider will explain how to care for your sutures and wounds. Keep the area clean and covered for the first 24 to 48 hours after the removal surgery.
If you have cryosurgery or cauterization to remove a skin tag and your clothes rub against the region, you may need to bandage it to reduce discomfort.
Cleansers, peroxide, antimicrobial soap with alcohol, and iodine should all be avoided following skin tag removal.
Can skin tags regrow?
Skin tags that have been entirely removed will not regrow. However, it is possible to acquire a new skin tag near where you previously had one.
Is Toothpaste Effective for Skin Tag Removal?
Toothpaste is a harsh home remedy for skin tags. Menthol in toothpaste may cause skin sensitivity, especially if you have sensitive skin. Furthermore, putting toothpaste on your skin might cause it to become excessively dry and flaky, therefore it is best to avoid using it to remove skin tags.
Is it possible to get rid of a skin tag using clippers?
We strongly advise against removing skin tags with this procedure. Using a clipper necessitates frequent pushing and twisting of the skin, which results in a great deal of blood. If left untreated, this can be extremely painful and lead to skin infections. Furthermore, utilizing this method of skin tag removal would almost probably result in a scar, which you do not want.
Is it painful to remove skin tags?
Skin tag removal procedures can be moderately painful. You are offered pain reliever medication.
How Will the Skin Look After the Skin Tag Is Removed?
The treated area will most likely scab over in the days following the surgery. Once the scab falls off, you may see small skin imperfections. However, they will be scarcely noticeable to others.
How Can I Avoid Getting More Skin Tags?
While prevention is not always practicable, various actions can be taken to lessen the risk of skin tags. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, practicing good cleanliness, and avoiding irritation or friction in areas prone to skin tags can all help.
Can I get rid of skin tags at home without risk?
While home eradication methods might be effective, they can also be dangerous. To reduce the risk of infection, scarring, and other consequences, proper cleanliness, safety precautions, and instructions must be followed.
What Are the Symptoms of Infection Following Skin Tag Removal?
Increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or persistent pain are all symptoms of infection. Seek medical assistance right away if you suspect an infection.
Can I get rid of skin tags when pregnant?
Skin tags should not be removed during pregnancy unless they are causing substantial discomfort. Skin tags can be more common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Before attempting any removal treatments during pregnancy, see your doctor.
Summary
Skin tags are usually harmless and do not necessitate treatment unless they irritate. Although home remedies and over-the-counter medications can be successful and cost-efficient, if a skin tag does not respond to home therapy, bleeds, or spreads, see your doctor. Several methods can be utilized to remove a skin tag with minimal discomfort and scarring.