Up to 60% of adults will develop a skin tag at some point in their lives. While they’re generally harmless, they can cause symptoms if irritated.
For example, they can become snagged by jewelry or clothing and that can cause pain or discomfort. In some rare cases, they can also become precancerous or cancerous.
Fortunately, they can be removed. In fact, there are several options when it comes to skin tag removal.
Interested? Looking for a guide on how to remove skin tags? If so, you’re at the right place. Keep reading to learn more about the topic!
1. Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy can be used to treat a range of skin conditions, including skin tags. Also known as ‘cold therapy’, it involves using freezing or near-freezing temperatures to destroy tissue.
The doctor will start by numbing the area with a cream or injection. They’ll then freeze off the tag with liquid nitrogen. Depending on the size of the growth, it can take anywhere between 5 to 10 minutes.
A blister may form afterward but it should dry up over the next few days. In most cases, the treated area will heal within 7 to 10 days with little to no scarring.
2. Electrocautery
Electrocautery is another option for those who are looking for skin tag removal. It involves using a light electrical current to remove benign skin growths. More specifically, the doctor will heat a blade or needle with electricity and apply it to the treatment area; this will kill the abnormal skin cells.
Not only is the procedure quick, but a topical anesthetic will also be applied to minimize discomfort. The heat from the needle will also close the wound so there will be minimal bleeding.
And there’s no downtime involved. Following treatment, the tag will become dry and will fall off within one to two weeks.
3. Surgical Excision
Surgical excision is often performed on large skin tags, sometimes as part of a biopsy procedure.
To begin the treatment, the doctor will clean and numb the area with a topical anesthetic. They’ll then cut off the tag with a scalpel or surgical scissors; there may be a bit of bleeding, but the pain will be minimal.
And since the incisions are small, they tend to heal quickly, usually within one to two weeks. Some people may experience light scarring with larger tags, but it shouldn’t be very noticeable. If anything, they’ll fade over the next few months.
Choosing Between Different Skin Tag Removal Methods
As you can see, there are several options when it comes to skin tag removal, all of which are highly effective. At the end of the day, it all depends on your preference. For those who are interested, talk to your local healthcare provider.
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