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The Forbury Clinic

Skin Tag Removal

Say goodbye to skin tags with our expert treatments. Enquire today for a consultation and achieve smoother, clearer skin at The Forbury Clinic.

Introduction to Skin Tag Treatment

Skin tags are small, benign growths that often appear in areas where the skin folds. While generally harmless, they can be irritating or cosmetically unappealing. Addressing skin tags can improve comfort and appearance. The Forbury Clinic offers advanced and personalised treatment options for effective skin tag removal, ensuring you receive the best care possible.

What are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, soft growths of skin that hang off the body. They are typically flesh-colored or slightly darker and can appear anywhere on the body but are most common in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids.

Common symptoms and signs:

  • Small, flesh-colored or slightly darker growths
  • Soft and easily movable
  • Painless but may become irritated if rubbed frequently
  • Can vary in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to their development.

Causes

  • Friction from skin rubbing against skin or clothing

  • Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy

  • Insulin resistance and diabetes

  • HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

Risk Factors

  • Being overweight or obese

  • Middle-aged adults and older individuals

  • Family history of skin tags

  • Certain medical conditions such as diabetes

Diagnosis

Diagnosing skin tags is typically straightforward and involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. In rare cases, additional tests may be used to rule out other skin conditions.

Specific tests and assessments:

  • Visual examination
  • Biopsy if the growth has an unusual appearance or is symptomatic

Treatment Options

Treatment for skin tags depends on their size, location, and the discomfort they cause. The Forbury Clinic offers a range of treatment options to effectively remove skin tags.

Non-Surgical Options
  • Cryotherapy:

    Freezing off the skin tag using liquid nitrogen

  • Cauterization:

    Burning off the skin tag using heat

Surgical Options
  • Excision:

    Cutting off the skin tag with a scalpel or scissors

  • Ligation:

    Tying off the skin tag with a surgical thread to cut off blood supply

Innovative Treatments
  • Laser therapy:

    Using focused light to remove skin tags

  • Electrosurgery:

    Using electric current to remove skin tags

Managing Skin Tags

Managing skin tags involves both immediate care and strategies to prevent new ones from forming.

Lifestyle changes and management tips:

  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce skin friction

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing to minimise irritation

  • Keep skin clean and dry

Home care or ongoing care recommendations:

  • Monitor for any changes in size or appearance of skin tags

  • Avoid self-removal to prevent infection or scarring

  • Seek professional treatment for removal

Complications and Prognosis

Possible complications if untreated:

  • Irritation and discomfort from rubbing against clothing or skin
  • Infection if the skin tag is accidentally torn
  • Rare cases of skin tags becoming cancerous

General prognosis:

With proper treatment, the prognosis for skin tags is excellent. Most skin tags can be easily removed with minimal risk of recurrence or complications. Early intervention and professional care are key to successful outcomes.

Why Choose The Forbury Clinic?

Choosing The Forbury Clinic ensures access to expert dermatologists and state-of-the-art technology. Our patient-centered approach focuses on providing personalized care and the most advanced treatment options available. We are committed to helping you achieve smooth, tag-free skin through comprehensive and compassionate care.