If you have a strange skin growth that you are unsure about, speaking to a dermatologist is a smart idea. Changes to the skin may indicate cancer. However, there are some skin growths that are easily diagnosed and removed that are not cancerous. This includes skintags.
What is a skintag?
The dermatologists of Remington Laser Dermatology Centre describe the skintag as a benign growth that can occur anywhere on the body. It is essentially a small flap of skin that has a connecting stalk that roots into the skin’s layers. While these are typically harmless and painless, they can be a cosmetic concern or become bothersome depending on their location. When patients have skintags in uncomfortable places or are embarrassed by their appearance, they will want to speak to the dermatologists at Remington Laser Dermatology Centre about removal.
What causes skintags?
Approximately 25% of Americans will develop one or more skintags during their lifetime. They can be found anywhere on the body, and may become uncomfortable due to irritation from clothes or jewelry rubbing against them. This friction can cause discomfort that may need to be addressed with a medical professional.
How are skintags treated?
At Remington Laser Dermatology Centre, our professionals find that treatment of skintags may range depending on the location and size of the skintag. Removal may be completed with:
- Surgical excision
- Cauterization
- Cryosurgery
Which removal method is appropriate for me?
During an initial evaluation, patients can ask their doctor about the best removal method. This may be determined due to size of the skintag or the skintag’s location.
What other skin concerns should I be aware of?
Developing certain growths on the skin may be an indication of skin cancer. This is why our team urges patients to schedule yearly skin cancer screenings to look for the signs of skin cancer in growths, scabs, and moles. Any unusual changes to the skin or new growths should be evaluated by a doctor for early diagnosis.
Are you interested in the removal of a skintag or other growth?
Contact Remington Laser Dermatology Centre of the Calgary, AB area today to speak with Drs. Todd Remington and Kent Remington about your skincare needs. We are here to help new and current patients of our practice with dermatological solutions.
