Skin tags can be irritating or unsightly, but they are most often benign. They are overgrowths of tissue that most often appear at the neck or underarms, or where the skin folds, such as on your eyelid or underneath your breasts. They appear to be caused by friction, either by skin rubbing against a seam or against another area of skin. While there are a variety of methods available to remove them, the Mayo Clinic recommends a doctor's visit rather than home remedies to cure this skin issue. Be aware that most insurance plans consider skin tags to be a cosmetic issue and will not pay for their removal--check your insurance for coverage.
Freezing
Often called cryotherapy, this process requires a doctor's visit. While larger skin tags require the use of a local anesthetic, most skin tags don't, according to Skintaghelp.com. The doctor simply freezes them off and applies ointment and a small bandage at the end of the procedure.
Surgical Scissors
Not to be confused with simply using a pair of scissors at home (which offers not only a high risk of infection, but also the potential for causing yourself quite a bit of pain), surgical scissor removal involves a doctor's visit. The doctor will anesthetize larger skin tags, though small skin tags don't require numbing. Using a sharp blade or scissors, the doctor will clip off the skin tag and apply ointment and a bandage.
Cauterization
A doctor's visit is again required here. The doctor should numb the area first, as the process can otherwise be quite painful. The doctor burns the skin tag off using an electrically heated metal tool. This is often done in conjunction with surgical scissor removal, which minimizes bleeding. It can, however, cause scarring and should be discussed with your doctor prior to proceeding if the skin tag is being removed from a visible area, such as your neck.
Laser Surgery
Very large skin tags may require the use of a laser for removal. This type of procedure is also appropriate for skin tags that are in delicate areas, as the Erbium laser has a very gentle approach, removing skin layer by layer to avoid scarring and pain. Typically, you will not need anesthesia for laser surgery removal of skin tags.
Avoid Home Remedies
Because skin tags may be confused with warts or moles, it's critical that a doctor examine you prior to trying a treatment method. Anything that looks suspicious can be biopsied by the doctor and appropriate treatment can be put in place if the skin tag turns out to be something other than cosmetic. In addition, some home remedies risk infection or damage to the skin in the affected area.
