Safe, Quick, and Professional Skin Tag Removal
Skin tags are common, harmless skin growths that often develop in areas where the skin experiences frequent friction. While they typically do not require medical treatment, many people choose to have them removed because they become irritated, catch on clothing or jewelry, or simply for cosmetic reasons.
At Boise Dermatology & Medspa, we provide safe, in-office skin tag removal using techniques that minimize discomfort and help you achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags (acrochordons) are soft, flesh-colored growths that hang from the surface of the skin. They are benign (noncancerous) and usually develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
Common locations include:
- Neck
- Underarms
- Eyelids
- Groin
- Under the breasts
- Upper chest
Skin tags can vary in size from just a few millimeters to over a centimeter.
Although they are harmless, it’s important to have any new or changing skin growth evaluated by a dermatologist to ensure it is not another type of skin condition.
What Causes Skin Tags?
The exact cause of skin tags isn’t fully understood, but several factors may increase your likelihood of developing them, including:
- Friction between skin folds
- Aging
- Genetics
- Weight gain
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes or insulin resistance
Some people naturally develop more skin tags than others, especially as they get older.
How Are Skin Tags Removed?
At Boise Dermatology & Medspa, we offer several safe and effective removal techniques based on the size, location, and appearance of the skin tag.
Surgical Removal
Small skin tags can often be removed by carefully snipping them with sterile surgical scissors or a scalpel. This method is quick and usually leaves little to no visible scarring.
Cryotherapy (Cryosurgery)
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag. The frozen tissue gradually dries up and falls off over the following days.
Cryotherapy is a common treatment for many benign skin growths and may be recommended for certain skin tags.
During your consultation, we’ll determine which removal method is best for you.
Does Skin Tag Removal Hurt?
Most patients experience very little discomfort.
Small skin tags can often be removed with only a brief pinching sensation.
For larger or more sensitive skin tags, a local anesthetic may be used to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Can I Remove a Skin Tag at Home?
We do not recommend removing skin tags yourself.
Attempting to cut or tie off a skin tag at home can result in:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Pain
- Scarring
- Incomplete removal
More importantly, not every skin growth is a skin tag. A dermatologist can determine whether the lesion is truly benign before recommending removal.
Will Skin Tags Grow Back?
Once a skin tag is completely removed, that specific skin tag typically does not return.
However, the procedure does not prevent new skin tags from developing in the future. People who are prone to skin tags may continue to develop new growths over time.
What Is Recovery Like?
Recovery after skin tag removal is usually quick.
Depending on the treatment method, you may experience:
- Mild redness
- Slight tenderness
- A small scab as the area heals
Most patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
Your provider will give you detailed aftercare instructions to promote proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.
Benefits of Professional Skin Tag Removal
Choosing professional removal offers several advantages:
- Quick in-office procedure
- Safe, sterile treatment
- Minimal discomfort
- Reduced risk of infection
- Minimal scarring
- Accurate diagnosis of the skin growth
- Fast recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Are skin tags cancerous?
No. Skin tags are benign growths and are not skin cancer. However, any new, changing, bleeding, or unusual skin lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Can skin tags fall off on their own?
Occasionally, a skin tag may twist and lose its blood supply, causing it to fall off naturally. Most remain unless they are professionally removed.
Is skin tag removal covered by insurance?
Coverage varies depending on the reason for removal. Skin tags removed because they are irritated or medically necessary may be covered, while cosmetic removal often is not. Our office can discuss your individual situation during your consultation.
Will there be a scar?
Most skin tags heal with little or no noticeable scarring, particularly when removed by an experienced dermatology provider.
How long does the procedure take?
Most skin tag removal appointments take only a few minutes, depending on the number of skin tags being treated.
Schedule Skin Tag Removal in Meridian, ID
If you have skin tags that are bothersome, irritated, or affecting your confidence, our experienced dermatology team can safely remove them during a quick office visit.
At Boise Dermatology & Medspa, Dr. Naomi Brooks and Physician Assistant Sammy Verner provide personalized treatment for skin tags and other benign skin growths. We proudly serve patients throughout Meridian, Boise, Eagle, Nampa, Kuna, and the surrounding Treasure Valley.
Request an appointment online or by calling (208) 888-0660 to schedule your consultation today.