Skin tag is one of the common skin conditions, seen at least once in the lifetime of nearly half of all adults. It causes no physical harm but still, many people go ahead with skin tag removal in Bangalore for comfort and enhanced appearance.
By understanding the skin tag causes, symptoms, and available treatment options, as discussed in this post, we make sure that the readers make well-informed choices regarding skin health and appearance.
What Is a Skin Tag?
Skin tag, medically termed as Acrochordon, is soft, flesh-colored, or slightly brownish, benign skin growth of 1mm to 1cm diameter that protrudes from the skin surface. Within it are present collagen fibers, blood vessels, nerves, adipocytes, and ducts- all of which are covered by the skin. This harmless growth usually develops in the skin folds, like the armpits, neck, groin, anus, eyelids, and under the breasts.
Skin tag can even be referred to by other names like Cutaneous tag/papilloma, Fibroepithelial polyp, Soft fibroma, Fibroma molluscum, Fibroma pendulum, and Templeton skin tag.
Causes of Skin Tags
Skin tag growth can happen for unknown reasons. The most likely reasons for skin tag formation are:
- Lifestyle
- Genetic predisposition
- Being overweight or obese
- Being aged
- Having PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome)
- Having type 2 diabetes
- Being pregnant
- Wearing tight-fitting clothing and accessories in areas prone to friction.
Types of Skin Tags
Based on the size, location, and shape, there are variations in skin tags' appearance. The two different skin tag shapes are filiform (thread-like) and pedunculated (tag with stem/stalk).
- Small skin tags, the furrowed papules, of 1-2 mm in width and height mostly develop on the neck and armpits.
- Filiform skin tags are mid-sized, about 5mm in length and 2mm in width, and can occur in any area of the body.
- Pedunculated skin tags are large, appearing as a bag or soft fibromas, mostly seen in the groin area.
Symptoms of Skin Tags
Most of the skin tags cause no discomfort and symptoms. However, depending on the size and location of the skin tags, various signs of skin tags can be noticed.
Skin tags must not be confused with warts. They are small, soft, flesh-colored, or slightly darker growths that tend to hang off the skin because of the small stalk that connects them to the skin unlike warts- the benign skin growth that develops flat on the skin surface.
When the skin tags get rubbed on clothing, jewelry, or skin, they may become sore and bleed. One would feel discomfort, minor irritation, itching, and tenderness.
Here is when to worry about skin tags and seek prompt dermatologist attention:
- Persistent pain or bleeding
- Changes in color of skin growth; multiple colors presented within one skin tag
- Abrupt, unusual changes in the size or shape of existing skin tag
- Multiple skin tags grow in a short period
- Repeated irritation or infection of skin tag.
Skin Tag Treatment Options
Sometimes skin tags can wither off on their own over time. If considering skin tag treatment in Bangalore, it’s advised to share concerns with dermatologist, Dr. Rasya Dixit and seek dermatologist-recommended skin tag removal. A dermatologist can determine the best method based on the skin tag location, number, and size.
The safe and effective, professional skin tag removal options include:
- Cryotherapy- A liquid nitrogen is applied to the skin tag to freeze it and let it fall off.
- Electrocautery- A special electrical equipment is used to burn off the skin tag.
- Ligation- A surgical thread is tied at the base of the skin tag to cut off the blood supply to the tag.
- Surgical excision- A scalpel or scissor is used to cut off the skin tag.
Risk of Removing Skin Tags Yourself
There are some dangers of removing skin tags at home, so self-removal must be avoided. The potential risks and complications of skin tag removal without professional assistance include:
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Scarring
- Infection
- Damage to healthy skin surrounding the skin tag
- Recurrence of skin tag
- Neuroma- chronic pain due to removal of nerve in the skin tag
- Incorrect usage of skin tag remover.
Preventing Skin Tags
Skin tag prevention is hard to achieve entirely. However, one can adopt certain measures to reduce skin tag formation. Here are key strategies to prevent skin tags:
- Maintain a healthy weight by regularly exercising and having a balanced diet to avoid rubbing of skin in areas prone to friction and skin tags.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid wearing anything that may rub against the skin and irritate it.
- Maintain hygiene of the skin. Keep it clean and dry as well as well-moisturised.
- Avoid attempting self-removal of skin tags at home. Seek professional guidance and treatment.
- Keep monitoring the skin for new skin tags or any unusual changes in the skin by going regularly to a dermatologist for skin check-ups.
Get Your Skin Tag Removed Today!
Skin tag is one of the common harmless skin issues, with no definite cause. Those having them generally consider their removal when they turn out to be problematic or aesthetically unappealing. There are varieties of skin tag treatment options, including over-the-counter products, natural remedies, and dermatologist-recommended treatments. Professional methods are usually recommended to remove skin tags safely and effectively. Preventive measures must be undertaken to avoid further occurrence of skin tags.
If seeking professional skin tag care, contact Dr. Dixit Cosmetic Dermatology Clinic to get your skin concern best addressed and your looks improved without straining your budget. Our priority is to help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin!
FAQs on Skin Tag Removal
Are Skin Tags Dangerous?
No. Skin tags are benign skin growths that pose no health risks. People choose to get rid of them if they are cosmetically bothersome or causing discomfort.
Can Skin Tags Reoccur After Removal?
No. The skin tag won’t show up again on the same spot. However, new skin tags may develop on the skin of the same site or a different site of the body.
Is Skin Tag Removal Covered by Insurance?
Usually, not. Skin tag removal is considered as an aesthetic procedure and no insurance plan covers the price of cosmetic skin treatment like such.
Can Skin Tags Be Removed Without Scarring?
Yes, if done by a licensed and experienced dermatologist. The different skin tag removal methods that leave no scars include cryotherapy, laser treatment, and electrocautery.
Are There Any Natural Remedies for Skin Tag Removal?
Natural remedies shouldn’t be considered as their effectiveness is backed with very little scientific evidence.
For details on skin tag removal cost in Bangalore, book a visit with the expert dermatologist Dr. Rasya Dixit today!
