Skin tags are benign growths that can be removed for cosmetic reasons. At-home removal using cryotherapy (e.g., Dr. Scholl’s Freeze Away) is effective but should be avoided in people with diabetes or bleeding disorders. For large or facial skin tags, professional treatments like surgical excision, liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, or electrosurgery are recommended to minimize scarring and complications.
January 13, 2025

Skin Tags: At-Home Removal and Warnings

Evidence-Based Over-The-Counter Guide

William Shen

William Shen

Co-founder & CPO

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Skin tags are benign growths of skin, attached by a stalk or stem to the rest of the skin, that commonly occur in areas of friction. They are not harmful but can be removed for cosmetic reasons. If skin tags are large or occur on the face, professional removal is recommended to prevent complications such as scarring or infection. Otherwise, at-home removal is sufficient. 

First-line Recommendations:

  • Cryotherapy: Application of liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove the skin tag. Follow manufacturer instructions. Do not use if you have diabetes or a bleeding disorder. Dr. Scholl's Freeze Away Skin Tag Remover (FDA Reg. K052259).

Not recommended:

  • Salicylic Acid Ointment: According to the FDA, salicylic acid may not remove all of a skin tag and can cause permanent injury to the surrounding skin, such as scarring or discoloration.

Professional Treatments:

  • Excision by Dermatologist: Surgical removal using scissors or a scalpel under local anesthesia. Requires professional intervention.

  • Liquid Nitrogen Cryotherapy: Application of liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove the skin tag in a doctor’s office.

  • Electrosurgery: Uses electrical energy to remove the skin tag. Requires medical expertise.

Citations:

US Food and Drug Administration. Products Marketed for Removing Moles and Other Skin Lesions Can Cause Injuries, Scarring. 08/10/2022.

Higgins JC, Maher MH, Douglas MS. Diagnosing Common Benign Skin Tumors. Am Fam Physician. 2015; 92(7): p.601-7. pmid: 26447443.

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