FAQ’s- Skin Tag Removal

Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths of skin that commonly appear in areas where the skin rubs together, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin or beneath the breasts. They are very common and are usually harmless, but some people choose to have them removed if they become irritated, catch on clothing or jewellery, or for cosmetic reasons.

Skin tags are very common and often develop in areas where there is friction or rubbing of the skin. They can occur naturally with age and are also more common in areas such as the neck, underarms, groin and under the breasts. Some people are simply more prone to developing them than others.

Skin tags do not usually go away on their own. They often remain the same, although some may become irritated or catch over time. If a skin tag is bothering you, becomes inflamed, or you would like it removed for cosmetic reasons, treatment options can be discussed at your appointment.

Skin tag removal depends on the size, appearance and location of the lesion. Small, typical flesh-coloured skin tags may be suitable for cryotherapy, while others may be better treated with minor surgical removal such as a shave procedure performed in clinic under local anaesthetic. The most appropriate option will be discussed with you during your consultation.

Skin tags are usually harmless benign growths and are very common. They do not usually cause any medical concern, although they can become irritated if they catch on clothing, jewellery or during shaving. If a lesion changes in colour, shape or size, bleeds, or does not look like a typical skin tag, it is best to have it assessed professionally.

It is not recommended to remove a skin tag yourself. Home removal can cause bleeding, infection, scarring or incomplete removal, and it may not be possible to tell whether the lesion is definitely a skin tag without professional assessment. Having it checked in clinic helps ensure the most appropriate and safest treatment is chosen.

Skin tag removal is usually quick and well tolerated. Some treatments may cause brief discomfort, and if minor surgical removal is needed, a local anaesthetic is used to keep the procedure as comfortable as possible. The treatment approach will depend on the size, type and location of the skin tag.

Any treatment that removes a skin lesion can leave a small mark or scar, but this often depends on the size and location of the skin tag and the method used to remove it. In many cases, any mark is minimal and fades well over time. This will be discussed with you before treatment so you know what to expect.

Skin tag removal is usually a quick procedure and can often be carried out in a short clinic appointment. The exact time will depend on the number of skin tags being treated and the removal method recommended. Your consultation will help determine the most suitable option for you.

The cost of skin tag removal depends on the size, appearance and treatment method recommended. For a typical flesh-coloured skin tag, removal with cryotherapy is £75. We can also offer surgical shave removal under local anaesthetic, which is £350. In some cases, if the lesion appears unusual, histology may be recommended and this would always be discussed with you at your appointment.

A skin tag that has been completely removed will not usually grow back, but new skin tags can develop in the future. This is quite common, especially in areas where the skin rubs together such as the neck, underarms or groin.

It is sensible to have a lesion checked if it changes in size, colour or shape, becomes painful, bleeds, or if you are unsure whether it is truly a skin tag. A professional assessment can confirm the diagnosis and help decide whether removal is appropriate.