1. Contact a Dermatologist
Skin tags are benign growths of accumulated skin, which usually appear on small stalks. They are often found under the arms, on the neck or face, in the groin area and underneath women's breasts, though they can appear anywhere. Because they are usually benign, they pose no real health risk, which means you can take your time to treat them properly. People usually want them removed because they are unsightly or because they are irritated by clothing or jewelry. Talk to a dermatologist about a safe way to remove them. He can treat the skin tag in his office or even suggest a way for you to do it at home if he feels it's safe.
2. Tie a Piece of Dental Floss Around the Stem
Dental floss is firm and if you tie it tightly enough, it will cut off the blood flow to the skin tag. Strong string works well too. After a few days, the skin tag will wither and fall off. Don't attempt this without talking to your dermatologist first.
3. Let Your Dermatologist Use Liquid Nitrogen
Liquid nitrogen can be used to freeze the skin tag and kill the cells, similar to the way warts are treated. You should always let your dermatologist do this, since liquid nitrogen can be very dangerous if improperly applied. She will dip a pair of forceps into the nitrogen, then use them to squeeze the stalk of the skin tag for 10 or 15 seconds. The tag with then wither and drop off on its own, usually after a week or so. Larger skin tags may require multiple treatments.
4. Use Electrolysis
Electrolysis can be used treat skin tags. It should only be undertaken by a dermatologist or medical professional. She will insert a needle into your skin beneath the tag and use jolts of electrical current to kill the cells. The treatment may leave a small scar behind after the skin tag is removed.
5. Snip the Skin Tag Off With Scissors
Again, you should always consult your dermatologist before trying this, and you may want to let him do it in his office rather than trying it at home. But removing the skin tag with a quick cut is often a very good way to get rid of it for good. If your doctor thinks it's okay, you can use a sharp pair of scissors and disinfect the blades with rubbing alcohol before you do it. Disinfect the cut after you remove the skin tag and put a bandage over it. Contact a doctor right away if it starts to bleed excessively or other complications arise.
