Skin tags, medically known as acrochordon, are benign fleshy growths that form in areas where the skin forms creases, such as the neck, armpit, and groin. They may also occur on the face, usually on the eyelids. It is believed that skin tags occur from skin rubbing up against skin, since they are so often found in skin creases and folds.
Skin tags can be cut off with a scalpel or medical shears. They can be burned off with a medical cautery device or they can be frozen with liquid nitrogen, in which case the skin tag then falls off. In all three instances, the idea is to stop the blood flow to the skin tag. However, most of these methods can involve some blood loss and are relatively painful.
At Inkfree, MD we use a method known as electodessication. A pin sized electrode is applied to the stalk of the skin tag and an electric current is passed through. This current will cut off the blood supply and the tag with gradually fall off over the course of a week. Larger tags may need an additional treatment. The procedure is relatively painless, the majority of people will feel a slight stinging sensation. At Inkfree, MD we do offer a prescription strength numbing cream for our more sensitive patients.
More information and pricing can be found on our dedicated Skin Tag Removal page.
