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What Is a Skin Tag?

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Skin TagIf you’ve ever noticed a little piece of dangling skin on your body, then you’ve most likely found a skin tag. While these little growths are completely benign, they can develop in places where clothes can rub against them and cause discomfort. Skin tags are most often found in and around the armpits, eyelids, groin, and neck. If you find that your skin tag is in an awkward or uncomfortable place, a dermatologist can easily remove it.
Treating Skin Tags Yourself
Chances are good that you’ve already googled “skin tags” and found a variety of home remedies and ways to remove the skin tag yourself. While some methods are safe and even effective at removing skin tags, it’s incredibly important that you consult your dermatologist first before trying any of these at-home treatments.
Not all skin tags should be treated with home remedies. Any large skin tags, are bleeding or painful, or are located in sensitive areas such as the genitals or the eyes should be treated by a dermatologist who will make sure to provide a safe, effective removal treatment.
Turning to a Dermatologist
There are several ways in which a dermatologist can remove skin tags. Some of these methods include,
  • Cryotherapy: Just like with warts, a dermatologist will freeze off the tag with liquid nitrogen (it usually only takes 1-2 treatments to remove the tag)
  • Cauterization: Burning off the skin tag can also effectively remove the benign growth after a couple of treatment sessions
  • Ligation: Tying a thread around the tag will cut off blood flow and make the growth eventually fall off
  • Excision: Your dermatologist may simply cut off the skin tag
If the skin tag isn’t large, uncomfortable, or in an awkward location then there is no reason to remove it; however, we understand that this may be purely for cosmetic reasons. In which case, your dermatologist is happy to remove the skin tag (but your health insurance is unlikely to cover the procedure).
If you want to have a skin tag removed, or if you aren’t sure whether a skin growth could be a tag, you must see your dermatologist first before you start trying any home remedies or treatments. It’s also important that everyone get an annual skin cancer screening with their dermatologist to check for suspicious or potentially cancerous growths.

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I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

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We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

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The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

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David M was great in all key areas that were important to me. Skill, bedside manner, updates during the surgery and his summary after the procedure. His nurse was also first rate. Thank you both for all that you did for me. NP Donna has treated me previously at this practice and I echo my comments here for her and the nurses, reception and scheduling employees. Thank you all for a great experience

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This was the most pleasant doctors appointment I’ve ever experienced. The wait wasn’t too long and there were so many beautiful and interesting things to look at while I was there: beautiful art well presented with identification and background details, fascinating terrariums and other plants, and even an Asian meditation garden. Dr. Macallister was very personable, professional and thorough. I was quite happy with her care. The staff too, were professional and pleasant.

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Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

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Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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