What Are Skin Tags And Non Surgical Options?

What are skin tags or growths? They are accumulations of various types of cells that can look different than other surrounding areas. These growths are usually small benign tumors and are typically the size of a grain of rice. Their appearance can be smooth or irregular and benign growths are non cancerous in nature. It is not currently known what causes these growths to form and randomly occur on men and women.

Where do they grow and how do they look? The are dark or fleshy colored soft growth connected by a stalk. Commonly seen on the neck or eyelids, they may also grow in the armpits, genital areas or under breasts. They could be multiple or single growths and have various shapes and sizes.

What are skin tags, a cosmetic or medical issue? Rarely causing major complications, some persons may feel they are unattractive. The nature of their location and number may cause some individuals a few self esteem issues. Various sizes and exact locations of the growths are traditionally reasons people consult that doctor to discuss cosmetic removal options.

Do they hurt? When growths cause irritation or discomfort, consider asking your medical profession about removal options. Causes of irritation are friction against clothing, zippers, jewelry or other types of fasteners. Also, discomfort may occur from abrasive skin contact and one may choose to remove them. The simple procedure can be performed in the medical office.

Simply performed during a scheduled office visit, safe removal procedures are often performed by a dermatologist or general medical professional. To ensure patient comfort, a local anesthetic may or may not be applied to the area before the procedure. There are various choices in tag removal using a liquid nitrogen solution or a sterilized electric needle to carefully burn it off.

Are there other removal options? Yes. Lasers may be used to remove the growths successfully. Other standard options require the doctor using a simple tool such as a pair of scissors or a scalpel. All options include the application of an anesthetic injection or cream to be used for a patient's comfort before the procedure.

What are some skin tag recommended treatment options after removal? Have a doctor or dermatologist (skin specialist doctors) to perform a thorough annual skin examination. If growths are successfully removed, keep a keen eye on the affected areas. In between scheduled checkups, be observant for the appearance of new growths and their locations. If they cause discomfort or irritation, alert your doctor for an appropriate treatment plan and available options quarterly or annually.

Make sure you research the different ways to remove your skin tags. If you don't have the time or the money to see a doctor there are some home removal remedies you should try first.

Discover how to remove your unsightly mole, wart, or skin tag at Mole Wart Removal.

Are you still looking into if what you have is really a skin tag? Learn exactly how to tell by finding out more about What Causes Skin Tags.