What Are Skin Tags?

Have you noticed a tiny little growth around your neck, underarms, face or bra line? It’s probably a skin tag. Don’t worry, they are completely harmless and nothing to worry about, but aesthetically they can be a bit annoying.  Luckily, they can be removed easily. But first, let’s discuss what are skin tags?  Who tends to suffer from them? How they can be prevented?

Where Do Skin Tags Appear On The Body?

As mentioned earlier, skin tags are commonly found on the neck, armpits, face (including the eyelids) and under the breasts. They are made up of loose collagen fibres and blood vessels and are surrounded by skin but grow to form a “tag”. They can vary in colour but are usually the same colour as your skin tone and are up to about 2cm wide.

Although both men and women can suffer from skin tags, the most common place for them to grow is in skin folds where skin rubs against itself. This is why those that suffer from type 2 diabetes or are obese have more chance of developing them. As a result of the hormone changes, pregnant women can also develop skin tags.

What Treatments Do You Need To Remove Skin Tags?

Although skin tags are nothing to worry about, many people choose to remove them for aesthetic reasons.

There are two main ways to do this, both are minimally invasive and do not require a lot of time.

The first way is ThermaVein. This is a relatively quick and extremely effective procedure that gives minimal discomfort. ThermaVein uses a small needle that uses advanced microwave technology which cauterises the skin tag, causing it to fall off.

The second way to remove your skin tag is with Cryopen. This method may take more than one appointment, especially for skin tags that have been present for a long time or are more deeply rooted. Cryopen shoots a very fine jet of Nitrous Oxide into the skin tag, this then freezes the skin tag. After a few days, the skin tag will fall off.

How To Stop Skin Tags From Coming Back

There are no guaranteed ways to prevent skin tags from cropping up again, but there are some ways that have been successful for others.

1. Friction reducing powder: if your skin tags tend to appear in the skin folds, it is probably because of the areas rubbing together. Try to apply a medicated powder that helps to reduce friction as well as irritation. Steer clear of anything with fragrance though as these can cause further irritation.
2. Avoid wearing tight fitting clothing: there are two reasons for this, the first being that tight fitting clothing can cause friction on the skin which increases your chance of skin tags forming. The second reason is that you often sweat more when you wear tight fitting clothing and that can increase the chances of irritation and again, friction on the skin.

Can Doctors Remove Skin Tags?

It is very unlikely that Doctors will remove skin tags from any area of the body. Doctors regard the removal of skin tags to be a cosmetic procedure and as such have been instructed not to use their time in removing them. Although you have to pay in a recognised skin clinic, you will find that the cost is affordable for such a delicate non-surgical procedure. Always seek professional advice from a reputable skin clini. Look up their testimonials and awards and ask them what system they use to remove the skin tags.

If you suffer from skin tags, why not pop into our skin clinic in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, for a consultation. Our advanced skin specialists are fully qualified to be able to offer you the best advice and will put your mind at ease about the whole process. Give Skin by Dr Caroline a call now on 01707 662477 to book your consultation and appointment.