Skin tag removal treatments are widely available in Singapore. While skin tags are generally harmless, removing them can cause temporary redness, scabbing and, in some cases, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) or scarring. This makes appropriate assessment and treatment technique particularly important, especially for Asian skin.
Skin Tags Removal in Singapore
Skin tags are very common and tend to become more common from midlife onwards. They can appear anywhere on the skin. A skin tag is a small, raised piece of skin that may grow from a narrow stalk, giving it the appearance of a small piece of soft, hanging skin. Under the microscope, skin tags consist of collagen fibres and blood vessels surrounded by skin tissue.
The exact cause of skin tags is not fully understood. However, skin-to-skin friction and repeated rubbing are thought to contribute to their development. This may explain why skin tags frequently appear in skin creases and folds, as well as areas where the skin regularly rubs against clothing.
Common areas include the:
- Neck
- Eyelids
- Underarms
- Under the breasts
- Groin
- Other areas of skin folds or friction
Skin tags are generally benign and harmless. However, they may become irritated when they repeatedly rub against clothing, jewellery or surrounding skin. Some people may also choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons.
The Difference Between Skin Tags And Warts
Although skin tags and warts can sometimes appear similar, they are different types of skin growths. Warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus can spread through direct skin contact or indirectly through contaminated surfaces, making warts contagious. Skin tags are not caused by HPV and are not contagious. They are benign skin growths and generally do not require treatment unless they become irritated, uncomfortable or cosmetically bothersome.
Skin tags themselves do not become cancerous simply because they are left untreated. However, not every raised skin growth is necessarily a skin tag. A doctor may need to assess an unusual or uncertain lesion before removal to rule out other types of skin growths.
Skin tags can be removed using several methods, including laser treatment. At Ensoul Medical Clinic, we prefer to use an Erbrium Yag ablative laser rather than a COâ‚‚ laser for suitable skin tags.
Erbium Yag laser energy is highly absorbed by water in the skin, allowing controlled ablation of the targeted tissue with relatively limited surrounding thermal damage. This can be particularly relevant when treating Asian skin, where excessive inflammation following treatment may increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
How is Skin Tags Removal Done?
Skin Tag Removal Options
The doctor first assesses the skin growth to determine whether it is consistent with a skin tag and whether laser removal is appropriate. Depending on the size, location and number of skin tags, removal options can include:
- Ablative laser removal, such as Erbium YAG or COâ‚‚ laser
- Electrosurgery or electrocautery
- Cryotherapy
- Snip or surgical excision
For suitable skin tags, an ablative laser removes the raised tissue in a controlled manner. The treatment can target individual skin tags while limiting unnecessary treatment of the surrounding skin.
How does laser help with skin tag removal?
Lasers remove both skin tags and scars by targeting the damaged skin cells that are causing them in the first place. As skin tags are located deep in the layers of the skin, lasers can help eliminate them by creating microscopic wounds that encourage the skin to go through the healing process. This process forces the body to produce new skin cells and collagen while removing skin tags without damaging the skin surface. You will be able to notice the skin feels smooth after several laser treatments.
Is there downtime?
The treatment involves minimal to no downtime. However, some patients may experience slight redness and swelling, which typically fades after a few hours.
How many sessions to remove skin tags?
The number of sessions required to remove skin tags can vary individually. Some individuals may need only one session, while others might require a few additional sessions, depending on the number and size of the skin tags. It is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation. During the consultation, your doctor will assess the skin tags and provide a personalized recommendation on the number of sessions needed for optimal results.