Understanding skin tag removal
Skin tags are harmless and usually appear where skin rubs against skin or clothing. They are more common with age, weight gain, pregnancy and insulin resistance.
Removal is quick and typically permanent for the tags treated, although new tags can form elsewhere if the contributing factors continue.
Multiple tags are usually treated in one session, with local anaesthesia adjusted to the number and site.
This may suit you if
- Tags catching on clothing, jewellery or razors
- Tags on the eyelids, neck or underarms that are cosmetically bothersome
- Multiple tags needing removal in one visit
What happens at the clinic
- 1
Examination
Lesions are confirmed as skin tags rather than other growths, and any pattern suggesting an underlying factor is noted.
- 2
Anaesthesia
Topical or injected local anaesthetic is used depending on the number and size of tags.
- 3
Removal
Radiofrequency cautery or fine snip excision is used. Each tag takes only seconds.
- 4
Aftercare
Ointment and simple wound care are advised; small scabs separate over about a week.
Aftercare
- Keep the treated area clean and dry as instructed
- Apply the prescribed ointment and dressing until healed
- Do not pick or scratch scabs
- Use sun protection on the healed area to reduce marking
Possible side effects
- Temporary redness or pigment change at treated sites
- Small residual marks, usually fading over months
- New tags forming elsewhere over time
- Infection — uncommon with proper aftercare