If you have noticed that you have skin tags, you are not alone. These skin growths are extremely common among both men and women of almost any age. The good news is that they are harmless to your health, however, some people wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. If you are bothered by the appearance of your skin tags, Dr. Gray at Pinnacle Dermatology & Skin Rejuvenation can treat them, so you can return to your busy schedule more confidently and comfortably.
Skin tags are small, soft, hanging pieces of skin that are connected to the skin with a peduncle, or stalk. They are painless and noncancerous and can appear on anyone of any age. However, they are most commonly found in those over the age of 50.
Skin tags are usually found in places where your skin folds, including:
While it is not known what causes the formation of skin tags, it is thought that they develop due to friction against the skin. Individuals with insulin resistance, who are pregnant, are overweight or have a family history of these growths also seem to develop skin tags more often.
Because skin tags are not harmful to your health, removal is usually done for cosmetic reasons or because they become irritated easily. It is important that you never try to remove a skin tag at home, as there is a risk of bleeding, damage to surrounding skin, and infection. Treatment options for removal include:
Cryotherapy: This involves using liquid nitrogen to freeze off the skin tag.
Electrosurgery: During this procedure, the skin tag is burned off with a tool that emits high-frequency electrical energy.
Surgical shave: The skin tag can be removed by Dr. Gray using medical scissors or a scalpel.
Sometimes, a growth that appears to be a skin tag may be something else, such as a wart, or in rare cases, skin cancer. If you believe you have a skin tag or notice any other kinds of growths that appear on your skin, please contact our office for a skin examination.
For more information regarding skin tag treatment in the Bellevue, WA area, contact Pinnacle Dermatology & Skin Rejuvenation today! Our friendly team will be happy to schedule your appointment with Dr. Gray or one our medical professionals. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have any questions regarding treatment.
