Warts and skin tags are similar looking growths on the skin. Warts are caused by viruses. The most common virus that causes warts is the human papilloma virus (HPV). Warts can be contagious. Skin tags are caused by skin rubbing against skin or clothing. Skin tags are not caused by poor hygiene. Like warts, skin tags can occur in people of all ages.
Many abnormal looking growths on the skin concern people and for good reason. People should be aware of growths on their skin so that they can have them evaluated in case they are potentially harmful. Warts and skin tags are two of the least harmful growths that people can get. The good news for people bothered by warts and skin tags is that there are ways to get them removed.
Warts and skin tags can look similar. Health care providers are trained to tell the differences between them and other growths. Health care providers can recommend the best way to treat warts and skin tags. Warts and skin tags can be removed by freezing them or by cutting them off.
Key Facts on Skin Tags:
Description: Fleshy, soft, and usually benign growths
Size: Usually small; about the size of a kernel of corn
Color: Usually the same color as one’s skin, but may be darker
Location: Usually found in the armpits, eyelids, and the neck
Causes: Genetics and hormonal changes; they may also be caused by friction between folds in the skin
Treatment: May be removed for aesthetic reasons
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are not the same as skin tags. Like skin tags, warts are benign. However, unlike skin tags, warts are contagious. Both warts and skin tags may be removed for cosmetic reasons.
Key Features of Warts
Appearance: Rough, may contain small black dots
Location: Anywhere. Common on hands and feet.
Texture: firm and granular
Cause: Infection with Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
Contagious: Yes
Conditions: Weak immune system
Factors: Contact with infected person/place, breaks in skin
Behavior/Habits: Nail biting/picking at skin
Warts and Skin Tags
Both can be diagnosed by a dermatologist during a routine exam. Tests are usually not needed.
Warts and skin tags are generally benign. Although medical removal is not necessarily required or recommended, they can be removed for aesthetic reasons or if they become large, bothersome, or irritated. Treatment depends on size and location. There are a number of safe and effective removal methods available, including freezing, burning, and surgical removal. If over-the-counter methods do not work on your wart, your doctor may recommend a more invasive treatment, such as laser surgery. The removal of a large, irritated skin tag would also warrant a more invasive removal method. In both cases, your doctor will determine the best treatment option for you based on your individual circumstances.
There are ways to reduce your risk of developing skin tags, especially if you are overweight. Losing weight and wearing more lightweight clothing can help reduce irritation caused by skin tags.
Prevention of warts consists of inhibition of HPV infection
- Avoiding bare-foot-info (BFI) in public showers and pools
- No sharing of personal items (razors, towels, nail clippers, etc.)
- Clean and cover raw skin
- Do not traumatize warts (i.e. picking)
After wart removal
- Do not pick at the treated area to remove dried skin
- Keep the treated area clean and dry
- Ask your health care provider for the best way to take care of the treated area
- Watch for signs of infection
Knowing the right questions to ask when selecting a dermatologist for warts and skin tags removal
The most important element for the removal of skin growths is the dermatologist. When choosing a dermatologist, check if the doctor uses the latest equipment and if he/she removes skin growths and if patients are satisfied with the service.
Dr. Trapta Gupta, one of the best dermatologists in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan is skilled in the removal of warts and skin tags.
Make sure the doctor explains to you the pros and cons of each available option for your condition.
When selecting a dermatologist for the removal of unwanted skin growths, consider what past patients have said about the doctor.
Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Skin
Most people have experience with skin tags. Although they are benign, they can be unattractive and unsightly. It is important to be able to identify these growths and know your options for removal.
When you see a new growth on your body, or if you are not happy with an existing growth, you should contact a dermatologist to have it professionally evaluated and removed, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are skin tags and warts dangerous?
Skin tags and warts are benign. If you notice a new growth, and it is not a wart or skin tag, it is important to have this growth evaluated to rule out more serious conditions.
How much does it cost to remove skin tags and warts?
The price for removal of these growths varies depending on the size and the number of growths you want removed. Consulting with a dermatologist will help you determine the exact cost for growth removal.
How long is the recovery process after warts/skin tags are removed?
The type of removal method determines the length of the recovery process. For example, a recovery period of about two weeks is expected after the removal of skin tags or warts by means of cryotherapy or cauterization. On the other hand, the recovery period after the surgical removal of skin tags or warts (surgical excision) is expected to take more than two weeks.
Once skin tags have been removed, are they likely to return? What about warts?
Skin tags, once removed, are not expected to return. New skin tags may develop in other locations. Recurrence of warts is to be expected because if the skin around the wart is infected with HPV, warts may return after they have been removed. This is the reason post treatment follow up is essential.
Who can remove my skin tags and warts?
Skin tags ans warts can be removed by a Dermatologist. In Bhiwadi, Dr. Trapta Gupta is a respected Dermatologist that can assess and remove your skin tags and warts.
