Skin tags—medically known as acrochordons are soft and common skin growths that many people like you may develop at any stage of their lives. Though these skin growths are harmless, you may consider removing them because of their appearance and where they occur.
If you want to remove skin tags but need to know how to start or what treatment suits you, this blog is for you. In it, you will explore why you should get these skin growths removed, whether at-home removal is safe, and what popular remedies and professional mole and skin tag removal options are.
Let's get started.
When To Consider Skin Tag Removal?
These skin growths are harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, several cosmetic or other reasons may lead you to remove them.
You can consider a skin tag removal if you have any of the following concerns:
Cosmetic Reasons: Skin tags on visible areas like the neck or eyelids can be aesthetically unpleasant. You may want them removed if they make you self-conscious and lower your confidence.
Irritation: If the skin tag on your neck or any other area irritates due to certain jewellery or causing discomfort while shaving.
Bleeding: If the skin tag ever gets snagged or injured due to any reason, it can bleed, leading to further complications
Diagnosis Confirmation: You may get them removed during the diagnosis process when the doctor wants to test the tissue to confirm that it is a harmless growth and nothing is to be worried about.
Skin Tag Removal Options
There are two main treatment categories for removing skin tags. They include
- Home remedies & OTC options
- Professional treatments
Let's explore these categories in detail.
Home Remedies & OTC Options
Talk to your doctor first to remove skin tags and moles. However, many people report that OTC home remedies have worked for them. They include
OTC Freezing Kits
It works on the principle of cryotherapy. OTC freezing kits use a cryogenic chemical to freeze the skin tag. These are only effective for smaller skin tags, may not work on more significant concerns, and are less potent than a doctor's treatment. Using a doctor's prescribed kit and adhering to their instructions is essential to keeping yourself safe.
Topical Creams
OTC creams and ointments claim to remove skin tags by drying them out. These products typically require daily application for several weeks. Results can vary, and there is a risk of skin irritation.
Home Remedies
Various home remedies are touted for skin tag removal. They include:
Applying apple cider vinegar
Massaging tea-tree oil
Crushing and applying garlic on the skin tag
Binding a thread on the root of the skin tag.
While some people report success with these methods, they are not scientifically proven and carry risks of infection, irritation, and scarring.
Professional Treatments For Removing Skin Tags
The safest and most effective way is to have a healthcare professional perform the removal procedure. Here are some of the most common professional treatments for mole removal in Leeds:
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision involves snipping off the skin tag with surgical scissors or a scalpel. This method is quick and usually erodes after numbing your skin with local anaesthesia—it minimises any discomfort. This method is highly effective, and there is less risk of the skin tag occurring again. However, you may notice scarring, especially when the skin tag is large.
Cryotherapy
This method involved applying liquid nitrogen on the skin tag to freeze it. The extreme cold causes the skin tag to freeze and eventually fall off. This method is quick and relatively painless, although some may experience minor discomfort during freezing. Cryotherapy is an excellent option for smaller skin tags and leaves minimal scarring.
Electrosurgery
Electrosurgery uses an electric current to burn off the skin tag. This method is highly effective and can be done quickly in a doctor's office. Local anaesthesia is typically used to numb the area. Electrosurgery is ideal for more extensive skin tags, but there may be a slight risk of scarring.
Ligation
Ligation means the Doctor will tie a surgical thread at the root of the skin tag, cutting off its blood flow. Over time, the skin tag will shrink and fall off. This method is less invasive and can be performed in a doctor's office. It is beneficial for small to medium-sized skin tags.
These are all the professional ways that your doctor may choose for skin tag removal.
After Care Tips
Taking care properly after the removal is essential as it promotes healing and prevents infections. It is also important to know what causes Skin tags, to avoid the reasons. Here are some aftercare tips for you:
- Keep the area clean with the help of a gentle cleanser
- Avoid using soaps or cleansers containing harsh chemicals
- Apply antiseptic ointment to stay away from infections.
- Avoid picking or scratching at the removal site to prevent scarring
- If you see any signs of infection at the site, such as redness, swelling or oozing, talk to your doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Although harmless and with no health risks, Skin Tag and mole removal Leeds may suit you if you are bothered by their cosmetic appearance or if they cause irritation. Various home remedies, such as applying apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil, are available; you must talk to your doctor about them. Secondly, skin tag removal at home is unsafe as it may cause heavy bleeding or other circumstances.
Always seek professional help to discuss your needs and aesthetic goals so the doctor can help you find the best removal options that keep you safe and provide clear and smoother skin.
