Skin Tags

Skin tags may be only mildly irritating for some, but for others, they can cause pain, annoyance, or embarrassment. If you wish to have skin tags examined or removed, turn to the board-certified dermatologists at Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, Maryland. The skilled dermatologists can provide precise removal for optimal aesthetic results. Learn more by calling the office or booking a consultation online today.

What are skin tags?

Skin tags are benign growths that can form anywhere on your body that commonly experiences friction, such as your neck, armpits, or groin. Certain risk factors increase your likelihood of getting skin tags, such as:

• Being middle-aged or older
• Experiencing hormonal changes, as with pregnancy
• Being overweight or obese, as skin rubs against skin
• A family medical history of skin tags
• Wearing clothing that causes skin friction

Your skin tags may be stretched long and thin or low-profile growths. Colors range from reds or pinks to the same tone as the surrounding skin.

What are the benefits of skin tag removal?

Although skin tags are not cancerous, it’s important to get your skin examined by a medical professional to ensure more concerning growths aren’t missed. Removing skin tags can make it easier to spot lesions or warts changing in appearance.

Additionally, while skin tags are not inherently dangerous, they can get caught or pinched in clothing and cause daily irritation. Safe removal can eliminate the discomfort and give you back the smooth skin you want.

How are skin tags treated?

Your provider at Shady Grove Dermatology adapts the removal method to best serve your needs. After a thorough evaluation of your skin tags, they may recommend:

Ligation

Ligation involves tying off the base of a skin tag to stop its blood supply. Shortly after, the skin tag simply falls off without damaging the surrounding skin.

Surgical removal

For this method, your provider may use a scalpel or surgical-grade scissors to snip the skin tags off safely.

Cryotherapy

Liquid nitrogen, used with precision, can freeze off a skin tag.

Electrosurgery

Instead of the cold of cryotherapy, electrosurgery uses meticulously controlled electric currents to remove skin tags.

Can I prevent skin tags?

While you can’t prevent skin tags completely, you can reduce the odds of getting them by eliminating the conditions that make it easier for them to form.

Specifically, you can adapt your clothing and jewelry to find beautiful pieces that don’t rub against your skin. Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight also helps to keep you comfortable and reduces skin-on-skin friction.

Talk to the skilled team at Shady Grove Dermatology for solutions to all of your skin care needs, including skin tags. Schedule your appointment today by calling the office or booking online.