What are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are soft, noncancerous growths on the skin. They usually form where the skin folds, on neck, armpits, breasts, groin area, and eyelids, though they can form in other areas of the body. Skin tags are formed by loose collagen fibres that become stuck inside larger areas of the skin. Skin tags are generally harmless and painless, and only cause irritation if they are caught on clothing or jewellery. Skin tags that itch, hurt, or grow rapidly or change in shape might be caused by a more serious condition, and should be examined by your doctor.
What Causes Skin Tags?
Skin tags are caused when the body produces extra collagen cells in the skin’s top layers. These extra cells are often produced in areas where the skin naturally rubs against itself.
Non-Surgical Solutions for Skin Tags Treatment
If you have skin tags, there are some non-surgical options you may wish to investigate for their removal.
Fractional CO2 Laser
A fractional CO2 laser treatment passes microscopic columns of energy into deep layers of the skin, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin. The process allows for controlled damage to the cells, triggering the skin’s natural healing process.
Fractional Erbium Laser
Fractional radiofrequency (RF) laser devices use silicone needles to deliver a fractionated RF electrical impulse into deep layers of the skin and/or fat. This treatment can eliminate unwanted skin growths and lesions, including skin tags.
Cryotherapy (Freezing)
Cryotherapy procedures freeze unwanted growths, such as skin tags, to enable their removal from the skin.
Home Remedies for Skin Tags
If you are not interested in having a non-invasive cosmetic procedure performed to eliminate your skin tag, you may find that some home remedies are effective in reducing or eliminating them.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil may dehydrate skin tags, causing them to fall off of the skin. While there is no scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of this approach, some anecdotal evidence exists.
Banana Peel
Banana peels contain antioxidants that may dry out skin tags, causing them to fall off. To try this treatment, place a small slice of banana peel on the skin tag, and cover it with a bandage. Repeat this treatment nightly.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The acidity of apple cider vinegar may break down the tissue surrounding the skin tag, which will cause the skin tag to fall off. To try this treatment, soak a cotton swab in apple cider vinegar and hold it against the skin tag for 15-20 minutes (you can wrap the area in a bandage).
Vitamin E
Since vitamin E is an antioxidant that keeps skin healthy, applying Vitamin E to the skin topically may cause the growth to disappear.
Garlic
Garlic reduces inflammation, and applying garlic to a skin tag may cause the tag to shrink. To try this treatment, crush some garlic and apply it to the skin tag. Repeat the treatment until the skin tag is eliminated.
Can Skin Tags Come Back After Treatment?
If a skin tag is removed by a professional healthcare provider or clinical technician, it is not likely to return after treatment.
Skin Tag Removal Before and After Images
Check out our before and after section here!
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Skin Tag
The cost of fixing a skin tag will depend on your treatment choice, as well as the size of the skin tag being treated and whether you require the removal of multiple skin tags.
Skin Tag Solutions at SpaMedica
At SpaMedica, our team of professional clinicians will work with you to determine the right procedure for removing your skin tag or skin tags. Whether you would prefer laser treatment or cryotherapy, we will discuss your options with you while working to make sure you understand how each procedure is performed, as well as any necessary aftercare or recovery instructions. Contact the clinic to book your consultation today!
Fractional CO2
