Skin Tag Removal

A skin tag, medically known as an acrochordon, is a small, soft, flesh-colored growth that hangs off the skin by a thin stalk. They can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and often appear in areas where the skin folds or experiences friction, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, and beneath the breasts. Skin tags are made up of collagen fibers and blood vessels surrounded by a thin layer of skin.

Although the exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, several factors contribute to their development. They are more common in adults and tend to occur more frequently with age. Friction, genetics, obesity, hormonal changes, and insulin resistance are associated with an increased likelihood of developing them. Pregnant women may also notice new skin tags due to hormonal fluctuations and changes in body weight.

Skin tag removal is a simple dermatologic procedure performed to safely eliminate these benign growths. While skin tags are noncancerous, removal may be desired for cosmetic enhancement or to alleviate discomfort caused by rubbing against clothing or jewelry. Attempting to remove a skin tag at home using over-the-counter products, scissors, or string is strongly discouraged, as this can lead to infection, scarring, or bleeding. Instead, removal by a board-certified dermatologist ensures the procedure is done cleanly, comfortably, and with minimal risk.

Dr. Joshua Freedman is a leading medical and surgical dermatologist in Swedesboro, New Jersey. His expertise ensures each procedure is tailored to the patient’s skin type, and the size, and location of the growth, achieving both aesthetic and functional results.

There are several medical methods for removing skin tags, each chosen based on the size, number, and location of the growths:

• Cryotherapy: This technique involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold causes the tag’s tissue to die and fall off naturally after several days. Cryotherapy is a quick procedure, typically taking only a few seconds per tag, and may cause temporary redness or blistering.
• Excision: For immediate removal, the dermatologist may use sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel to cut the skin tag off at its base. Local anesthesia or a numbing cream is often applied beforehand to minimize discomfort. This method provides instant results and allows for precise removal, especially for larger or pedunculated skin tags.
• Electrocautery: This technique uses controlled electrical heat to burn and seal the tissue. Electrocautery is particularly effective for small tags and helps minimize bleeding during the procedure. Patients may experience a mild tingling sensation, but the treatment is well tolerated and leaves minimal scarring.
• Laser removal: Advanced dermatologic lasers can also target and vaporize skin tags with exceptional precision. Laser removal is a popular option for patients seeking a noninvasive, virtually scar-free result. It is especially useful for delicate areas such as the face or neck.

Dr. Freedman’s aesthetic approach ensures the treatment area heals smoothly and evenly, preserving the natural appearance of the surrounding skin.

Recovery from skin tag removal is generally fast and uncomplicated. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after treatment. The treated area may appear slightly red or sensitive for a few days, but this typically resolves quickly. In cases where excision or electrocautery is used, a small scab may form as the skin heals naturally.
Patients should avoid picking at the treatment site, applying makeup or harsh skincare products over the area until fully healed, and limit direct sun exposure to reduce the risk of discoloration.

Applying a mild antibiotic ointment or protective dressing, as recommended by the dermatologist, can help support optimal healing. Infection and scarring are rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified dermatologist and when aftercare instructions are followed carefully.

The results of skin tag removal are immediate and long-lasting. Once the tag is removed, in most cases it does not grow back. However, some individuals may develop new skin tags over time, particularly in areas of friction or if they have underlying risk factors such as obesity or metabolic conditions. Routine skin care, maintaining a healthy weight, and wearing loose-fitting clothing can help reduce the likelihood of new tags forming.

The cosmetic improvement after removal is often significant, leading to smoother, clearer skin and greater comfort. For patients with multiple tags, Dr. Freedman can remove several in a single session, providing both aesthetic and practical benefits.

Patients who undergo professional skin tag removal often express increased confidence in their appearance and relief from the physical irritation that tags can cause. Because Dr. Freedman’s technique emphasizes precision and aesthetic outcomes, patients experience minimal downtime and beautiful, natural-looking skin afterward.