How to Get Rid of Skin Tags: A Complete Guide from Arlington Dermatology

skin tag removal

Skin tags are one of the most common benign skin growths, affecting nearly half of adults at some point in their lives. At Arlington Dermatology, our expert team led by Dr. Ellinor Coyne and Dr. Matthew Livingood specializes in safe, effective skin tag removal. Let’s explore your options for addressing these harmless but often bothersome growths.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags are soft, flesh-colored growths that typically form in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Common locations include:

  • Neck and underarms
  • Eyelids
  • Groin and thigh folds
  • Under the breasts

While completely harmless, many patients seek skin tag removal for cosmetic reasons or because the growths catch on clothing/jewelry.

Professional Removal Methods

Our board-certified dermatologists offer three proven techniques for skin tag removal:

1. Snip

Using sterile surgical scissors, we carefully remove the tag at its base. This instant removal method is ideal for larger growths.

2. Cryotherapy

Liquid nitrogen freezes the growth, causing it to scab and fall off within 1-2 weeks. This painless method works well for smaller tags.

3. Electrocautery

A specialized device uses heat to safely remove the tag while minimizing bleeding. This method promotes quick healing.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Our patient-centered process ensures comfort and safety:

  1. Consultation: We examine the growth to confirm it’s benign
  2. Numbing: If needed, local anesthesia ensures a pain-free experience
  3. Removal: Your dermatologist uses the most appropriate technique
  4. Aftercare: Detailed instructions for optimal healing

Why Choose Professional Removal?

While DIY methods exist, professional skin tag removal offers significant advantages:

  • Minimal risk of bleeding, infection, or scarring
  • Immediate results with excision methods
  • Proper diagnosis of suspicious growths
  • Customized treatment for your skin type

Recovery and Aftercare

Most patients experience:

  • Mild tenderness for 1-2 days
  • Minimal scarring when properly cared for

Our team provides personalized aftercare instructions, including how to clean the area and when to resume normal activities.

Why Trust Arlington Dermatology?

Our expert team combines advanced techniques with compassionate care:

  • 15+ years combined experience in dermatologic surgery
  • State-of-the-art facility with same-day treatments
  • Focus on patient comfort and natural-looking results

Schedule a Consultation

Don’t let skin tags affect your confidence or comfort. Arlington Dermatology makes removal quick, safe, and effective. Schedule your consultation with our expert dermatologists today. Let us help you achieve smooth, clear skin with our professional removal services.

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