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What causes skin tags?
Skin tags develop in areas of friction and skin-on-skin contact. They are more common in overweight individuals, during pregnancy, and in people with diabetes or insulin resistance — likely due to hormonal factors and skin fold formation. They are also associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) in some cases, though they are entirely harmless.
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Are skin tags dangerous?
No. Skin tags are benign growths that carry no risk of malignancy. However, any lesion that is growing rapidly, bleeding, painful, or does not look like a typical skin tag should be assessed by a clinician before removal, to ensure the correct diagnosis is made.
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Can I remove a skin tag myself?
Home removal using over-the-counter freezing kits, tying off with thread, or cutting with scissors is not recommended. These methods carry a significant risk of infection, bleeding, incomplete removal, and scarring — particularly around delicate areas such as the eyelids or groin. Professional removal is fast, safe, and definitive.
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Will skin tags grow back?
Once removed, a skin tag will not regrow at the same site. However, new skin tags may develop in the same body areas over time, particularly in individuals who are prone to them. This reflects the underlying tendency rather than recurrence of the treated lesions.
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How many skin tags can be removed at one time?
There is no strict limit, and multiple skin tags across different body areas can be addressed efficiently within a single appointment. For very large numbers of lesions, your clinician will advise on the most sensible approach — whether to treat all at once or in staged sessions.
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Is the procedure suitable for sensitive areas such as the eyelids?
Yes. Eyelid skin tags are very common and can be safely removed under local anaesthetic by an experienced clinician with the appropriate training and technique. The periocular area requires particular care, and your clinician will select the safest approach for this location.
Your Patient Journey
1. Your
Consultation
Your clinician will examine the skin tags and confirm the diagnosis. The number, size, and location of the tags will be assessed and the most appropriate removal technique discussed. For tags in sensitive areas such as the eyelids or groin, particular care is taken in technique selection. The procedure, expected results, and any risks are explained before proceeding.