An estimated half of all adults in the United States have at least one skin tag. And while these common skin growths are harmless, they can be bothersome. You might dislike the appearance or find that they frequently get caught on clothing or jewelry, which could pave the way to pain or injury. 

If you’re bothered by a skin tag, you may want to consider skin tag removal. The minimally invasive procedure is safe and effective when performed by a qualified professional.

Dr. Javier Sosa and our expert team at Woodlands Primary Healthcare offer a range of in-office procedures, including skin tag removal, as well as other customized treatments for skin conditions. Read on to learn more about skin tags, including ways we can help.

Skin tags 101

No one knows exactly why skin tags form, but they’re believed to form in response to friction or irritation to your skin. That may be why they’re more common in obese individuals who have rolls or folds due to excess fat. They are also common in older adults, once the skin becomes looser and saggier. Genetics and family history of skin tags also play a role. 

While most skin tags are small, some grow to be several centimeters in size. And you’re most likely to develop them on parts of your skin where friction is common, such as your neck, underarms, eyelids, and under your breasts.

Skin tag diagnosis and treatment

Getting your skin tag properly diagnosed is important for ruling out other conditions that may be more harmful. Dr. Sosa or a member of our team can usually diagnose a skin tag through a visual exam. In some cases, a biopsy may be useful for confirmation.

Once you know it’s indeed a skin tag you’re dealing with, it can be removed for your physical or emotional comfort. Common means of removal include:

• Cryosurgery, or freezing it off
• Electrocautery, or burning it away
• Ligation, which involves tying it off with surgical thread
• Scissor excision

If a skin tag changes or becomes painful, seek medical support from our team even if you aren’t bothered by its existence. These may be signs of a condition in need of treatment. In addition, do not attempt to remove a skin tag on your own. Doing so could cause bleeding, burns, or an infection.

To learn more about skin tags or get the care you need, call Woodlands Primary Healthcare, located in The Woodlands, Texas, or request an appointment with Dr. Sosa on our website today.