Skin tags are one of the most common blemishes I treat, and one of the most misunderstood. If you’ve got one, you’re in good company; they affect around 45% of the population, and there is absolutely nothing to worry about medically. Most of my clients want them gone because they catch on clothing and jewellery, or because they’ve quietly chipped away at their confidence over time.
Skin tags are small, benign growths of epithelial tissue that most commonly appear in areas of friction; the neck, armpits, groin, and bra strap line are the classic spots, though I’ve treated them just about everywhere. They can range from a tiny pin dot to a large pea or bigger, and their colour varies too; some match the surrounding skin exactly, while others are noticeably darker.
I use diathermy, also known as electrocautery. A precise method for removing skin tags safely. During your consultation, I’ll assess the tag or tags, discuss the treatment and how it works and walk you through exactly what will happen. We will also discuss a treatment plan if you have multiple tags. Depending on how the skin tag is attached, I will either cauterise and remove it so it’s gone immediately, or I will desiccate/dry out the tag so it scabs and sloughs away naturally.
Your appointment always starts with a full consultation and, where appropriate, a skin test, so we know how your skin is likely to react and heal before we begin. The treatment itself causes a brief tingling or warm sensation that most people tolerate easily. You’ll never be rushed, and you’ll never share your appointment slot with anyone else; it’s just you and me, in a private treatment area, for the whole visit.
Afterwards, I’ll talk you through your aftercare verbally and send you home with written instructions and the right aftercare product for your skin. You’ll also have my direct number for any questions, and a review appointment 6-8 weeks later is included as standard.
Will my skin tag grow back after removal? No. A removed skin tag won’t return. It’s possible to develop a new one in the same area if you’re prone to them, but that’s a new tag, not a regrowth.
How many skin tags can be removed in one appointment? There’s no fixed limit; it depends on you and how your skin responds during the initial patch test, which helps guide how much I treat safely in one sitting.
Does skin tag removal leave a mark? When you follow the aftercare advice properly, there should be minimal to no visible trace once healed. Picking, scratching, or sun exposure during healing typically causes marking, which is exactly why aftercare guidance matters so much.
Read one of my latest blogs about Skin Tags HERE
I run clinics every week in Boxted, Colchester and from Studio One, Chelmsford, with a further clinic now open at Maison Abbeville in Clapham, London. You can view pricing here and book your consultation directly below.
