Skin Tag Removal: Cause, Symptoms, Treatment, and Cost

Skin tags are harmless but cosmetically undesirable growths that can be removed with over-the-counter remedies or in-office procedures. 

We’ve all had our share of skin surprises, haven’t we? Just when we think we know our skin inside out, it presents us with an unexpected guest in the form of a skin tag. These tiny, benign growths might be small in size, but we completely understand how big an impact they can make on your comfort and confidence. But don’t worry. A dermatologist can quickly get rid of skin tags in minutes. 

What are skin tags? 

Skin tags are small, soft, skin-colored growths that can develop anywhere on the body. They are most common on the neck, armpits, groin, and under the breasts. Skin tags are harmless, but they can be irritating or cosmetically undesirable.

What are the symptoms of skin tags?

Skin tags are usually small, soft, and skin-colored. They may be flat or raised, and they may be attached to the skin by a thin stalk. Skin tags are typically painless, but they can become irritated if they are rubbed by clothing or jewelry.

Why do I have skin tags?

The exact cause of skin tags is unknown, but they are thought to be caused by friction or rubbing of the skin. Skin tags can also be hereditary.

Skin tags are more common in the following people:

• People who are overweight or obese
• People with diabetes
• People with a family history of skin tags
• Pregnant women
• People who take certain medications, such as corticosteroids

Skin Tag Removal Treatments

There are two main types of skin tag treatment: over-the-counter remedies and in-office procedures.

Over-the-counter remedies

There are a number of over-the-counter products that claim to remove skin tags. However, there is little scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of these products. Some over-the-counter treatments may be irritating to the skin, and they should be used with caution.

In-office procedures

There are a number of in-office procedures that can be used to remove skin tags. These procedures are typically performed by a dermatologist or other healthcare professional.

1. Ligation and Cutting: This treatment is the most common method of skin tag removal. In this procedure, the dermatologist ties a suture around the base of the skin tag. This cuts off the blood supply to the tag, causing it to die and fall off within a few days or weeks.
2. Cryotherapy: This method involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen. This destroys the tissue of the skin tag, causing it to fall off within a few weeks.
3. Electrosurgery: This skin tag removal method uses an electric current to destroy the skin tag. The skin tag will typically disappear immediately after the procedure. This procedure is quick and effective, but it can cause some pain and bleeding. 
4. Cauterization: This treatment uses heat to destroy the skin tag. This procedure is also quick and effective, immediately removing the skin tag, but it can also cause some pain and bleeding.

Which skin tag removal treatment is right for me?

The best skin tag removal treatment for you will depend on the number and size of the skin tags, their location, and your budget. Over-the-counter remedies may be an option for small, out-of-the-way skin tags. In-office procedures are typically recommended for larger or more visible skin tags.

Does insurance cover skin tag removal?

Most insurance companies do not cover skin tag removal unless it is medically necessary. For example, if a skin tag is infected or interfering with your range of motion, your insurance company may cover the cost of removal. However, if you are having skin tags removed for cosmetic reasons, you will likely pay for the treatment. 

How much does it cost to get skin tags removed?

The cost of skin tag removal varies depending on the number and size of the skin tags, the type of procedure used, and the geographic location. In general, over-the-counter remedies are less expensive than in-office procedures. In-office procedures typically range in cost from $100 to $500 per skin tag. Below is the average cost of professional skin tag removal.

Recovery and Risks from Skin Tag Removal

The recovery time from skin tag removal varies depending on the type of procedure used. Generally, the skin will heal within a few weeks. The risks and side effects of skin tag removal are generally minor and rare. However, they can include the following:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Pain
• Bleeding
• Change in skin color
• Recurrence of skin tags

Consult a Skin Tag Removal Dermatologist in Sugar Land and Memorial, Texas.

If a skin tag is bothering you, we can get rid of it quickly for you. Get your skin confidence back – consult our dermatologists at Team Dermatology in Sugar Land and Memorial, Texas. Our service extends to customers in Houston, Bay Town, Conroe, Deer Park, Tomball, The Woodlands, and the greater Texas area.