Why You Should Never Remove Skin Tags Yourself

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are tiny, benign growths that typically develop in areas where the skin folds or rubs against itself, such as the neck, underarms, and groin. They're common and harmless but can sometimes be a nuisance or cause discomfort.

Expert dermatologist Douglass Forsha, MD, at Jordan Valley Dermatology Center in South Jordan, Utah, is committed to providing cutting-edge dermatological care for patients of all ages. We take an integrative approach to dermatology because our team understands the importance of combining surgical, medical and research knowledge to create personalized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Whether you're seeking treatment for a specific skin condition or looking to enhance your natural beauty, our compassionate and skilled team is here to help. Trust us to provide exceptional care and results.

What causes skin tags?

Skin tags are often due to friction from clothing or skin rubbing together. The trait can be genetic. They are more common in older adults, overweight individuals, and pregnant women due to hormonal changes. While they're usually harmless, their appearance can cause self-consciousness or discomfort.

DIY skin tag removal: a risky practice

Because of the prevalence of skin tags, many people opt for do-it-yourself removal methods instead of seeking professional help. Common at-home removal methods include tying them off with string, applying over-the-counter products or even attempting to cut them off.

These DIY practices come with significant risks like bleeding and infection. Also, incorrect removal can result in scarring which might be more noticeable than the original skin tag.

This information isn’t meant to scare you but rather to inform and encourage you to make the best decisions for your health. If a skin tag is bothering you, whether it's causing discomfort or you simply don't like how it looks, please contact Jordan Valley Dermatology.The removal of skin tags is often reimbursed through insurance. 

When to seek professional help

While skin tags are usually benign, it's essential to consult us if you notice any changes in color, size, or shape or if the skin tag becomes painful. These could be signs of a more serious skin condition, such as skin cancer.

If a skin tag is causing discomfort or you want it removed for cosmetic reasons, it's best to seek professional help. Dr. Forsha has the instruments and expertise to safely and effectively remove skin tags, minimizing the risk of infection and scarring.

Safe skin tag removal options

There are several safe and affordable options for skin tag removal. These include cryotherapy (freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen), cauterization (burning off the skin tag), and ligation (tying off the blood supply to the skin tag). They frequently are snipped off with surgical scissors. 

Our team can guide you on the best method based on the size and location of your skin tag. In most cases, skin tag removal is quick, with minimal discomfort, and doesn't require any downtime.

While removing skin tags at home might be tempting, the risks far outweigh the benefits. If you have questions about skin tags or other skin care issues, please call us at 801-335-6728.