Skin Tags

Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center

Dermatologists & Dermatopathologists located in Glen Allen, VA & Chesterfield, VA

Skin tags

Protruding skin tags aren’t usually a cause for concern, but they might still embarrass you, and occasionally cause discomfort when they catch on clothing. Patricia O’Connor, MD, and the expert team at Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center in Glen Allen and Chesterfield, Virginia, offer simple treatments for skin tag removal to give you the beautifully smooth and comfortable skin you desire. Call the nearest Richmond-area office today or send us a message to book an appointment on our contact page.

What are skin tags?

Skin tags are noncancerous outgrowths of skin that protrude from the rest of your skin. Skin tags are most common at sites of friction but might appear just about anywhere on your body including your:

• Neck
• Chest
• Groin
• Eyelids
• Armpits
• Under the breasts

The growths might be skin-colored, light brown, or dark brown. They can stay small or increase in size over time. While not a cause for concern, they can rub against jewelry and clothing, make shaving difficult, or cause embarrassment.

What are the benefits of skin tag removal?

Some of the numerous benefits associated with skin tag removal include:

• Less skin irritation
• Easier shaving
• Improved self-esteem
• Smooth skin

Skin tags are often unsightly. The Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center team can easily remove them right in the office without pain or downtime. Skin tag removal might not be covered by insurance unless they are irritated or inflamed.

How are skin tags diagnosed?

Your Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center specialist diagnoses skin tags with a simple skin evaluation. They also review your symptoms and medical history. If you have a skin lesion that looks suspicious, your provider might send a skin biopsy to a lab to detect or rule out skin cancer.

How are skin tags treated?

Skin tag removal is a simple treatment. Your dermatologist might use:

Snipping

Your doctor can numb the treatment area and snip off skin tags using special tools without any discomfort.

Electrodesiccation

During electrodesiccation, your dermatologist dries out tissue using a needle-like electrode, which passes electric currents into skin tags to destroy them.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery uses liquid nitrogen to freeze off skin tags. After the procedure, tags usually develop a scab and fall off within 10-14 days.

Shave removal

If the skin tag is particularly large, your Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center specialist numbs your skin and uses a scalpel or blade to cut off skin tags.

Which skin tag treatment is right for me?

The skin tag removal method that’s right for you depends on the size of the skin tag and your preferences. Whichever way you and your dermatologist choose, there’s little discomfort or downtime afterward.

Don’t live with skin tags that embarrass you or rub against your clothing and jewelry. Schedule an appointment with Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center by phone or send us a message to book an appointment on our contact page.

References and Resources:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/skin-tags-and-cysts-when-you-should-worry/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/67317

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