Never remove skin tags yourself. Here’s what you should do instead

 

Never Remove Skin Tags Yourself. Here’s What You Should Do Instead

Skin tags are small, soft, harmless growths that many people develop as they age. They’re common, especially in areas where the skin folds—like the neck, armpits, eyelids, groin, or under the breasts. Because they’re usually painless, most people don’t think twice about them… until they catch on clothing, become irritated, or simply become cosmetically bothersome.

While it may be tempting to snip, twist, or freeze off a skin tag at home, dermatologists strongly advise against DIY removal. What looks like a simple procedure can lead to complications you may not expect.

Here’s why you should never remove skin tags yourself—and what you should do instead.

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Why You Should Avoid DIY Skin Tag Removal

1. Infection Risk

Removing a skin tag without proper sterilization can introduce bacteria into the wound. This can lead to redness, swelling, pain, or even an infection that requires medical treatment.

2. Excessive Bleeding

Skin tags may contain small blood vessels. Cutting or pulling them off can cause bleeding that’s difficult to control, especially if the tag is larger or on a sensitive area like the eyelids or groin.

3. Scarring

Improper removal can damage the skin and result in permanent scarring—something especially problematic when skin tags are on visible areas like the face or neck.

4. Misdiagnosis Risk

Not everything that looks like a skin tag is a skin tag. Certain growths, including warts, moles, or other lesions, may resemble common tags but require very different medical evaluation. Removing something that hasn’t been properly diagnosed can delay important care.

5. Pain and Nerve Damage

Some tags grow near nerve endings. Trying to remove them at home can be more painful than expected and, in rare cases, cause nerve irritation.

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So What Should You Do Instead?

1. Have a Professional Examine It

A dermatologist or qualified healthcare provider can confirm that the growth is a skin tag and not something requiring further investigation. This simple step ensures safety and peace of mind.

2. Discuss Removal Options With a Professional

If the tag is causing irritation or you simply want it gone, a healthcare professional can explain safe removal options. These procedures are generally quick and performed under clean, controlled conditions to reduce risks.

3. Monitor Any New or Changing Growths

If you notice a new skin growth, or if a tag suddenly changes in size, color, or shape, seek medical advice. These changes sometimes point to other skin conditions that should be evaluated promptly.

4. Consider Whether Removal Is Necessary

Since skin tags are usually harmless, you may decide they don’t need removal at all—especially if they’re small, painless, and located somewhere inconspicuous.

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When to See a Healthcare Professional Right Away

You should seek professional evaluation if:

• A skin tag becomes painful, irritated, or bleeds repeatedly

• It grows rapidly or changes appearance

• It’s located on a sensitive area like the eyelid

• You have many new tags appearing at once

• You’re unsure whether it’s really a skin tag

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The Bottom Line

Skin tags are common and usually harmless, but removing them yourself can lead to unnecessary complications. A healthcare professional can safely evaluate and remove them with minimal discomfort and far less risk.

When it comes to your skin, the safest choice is the simplest:
Don’t remove tags at home—get expert guidance instead.

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