Comprehensive Guide on Skin Tag and Wart Removal: Understanding the Differences

How are skin tags and warts diagnosed?

Skin tags and warts are typically diagnosed through clinical evaluation by a dermatologist. While both are usually benign, understanding their differences and reasons for removal can guide appropriate treatment and removal if desired.

• Visual examination: Doctors often diagnose skin tags and warts based on their distinct appearances.
• Biopsy: In cases where the diagnosis is uncertain or the lesion appears unusual, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions such as malignancies.

Removal and Treatment Options for Skin Tags and Warts

Skin tags and warts often do not cause medical harm and can be left alone to resolve on their own. However, here are some scenarios where removal for skin tags or warts may be recommended:

• Aesthetics: Both skin tags and warts may be considered unappealing, leading some people to seek removal for improved appearance and self-esteem.
• Preventing spread: Warts are contagious and can spread to other parts of the body or other individuals through direct contact. Removing warts can help prevent transmission.
• Discomfort: Skin tags can become irritated or uncomfortable, especially when they rub against clothing or jewelry, potentially causing pain or bleeding. Warts, particularly on weight-bearing areas like the feet, can be painful and may interfere with daily activities.

There are several removal options for both skin tags and growths, depending on the doctor’s recommendation and patient’s preference. Here are some common removal methods:

Understanding the various treatment options for skin tags and wart removal is essential for selecting the most appropriate method based on individual needs and medical advice. Below is an elaboration on the mentioned procedures:

Skin Tag Removal:

• Cryotherapy: A common and quick procedure often used for small skin tags, this technique involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin tag, causing its cells to die and the tag to fall off.
• Electrocautery: This method uses an electric current to burn off the skin tag.
• Shave Excision Surgery: This minor surgery involves removing the skin tag with a scalpel or surgical scissors. Local anesthesia is typically administered to minimise discomfort.
• Carbon Dioxide Laser: This laser therapy targets the water within skin cells to vaporise the skin tag with precision and is beneficial for removing tags in sensitive areas or when other methods are unsuitable.

Wart Removal:

• Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter solutions that contain salicylic acid are commonly used to treat warts. These treatments work by gradually exfoliating the infected skin through consistent application over several weeks.
• Cryotherapy: Similar to its use in skin tag removal, cryotherapy for warts involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart tissue.
• Shave Excision Surgery: This surgical technique involves cutting the wart off at the skin’s surface, often followed by cauterisation to prevent bleeding.
• Carbon Dioxide Laser: Laser therapy can also be employed for warts that are resistant to other treatments. The laser precisely targets and destroys wart tissue, minimising damage to surrounding skin.
• Intralesional MMR Injection: This immunotherapy approach involves injecting the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine directly into the wart. The treatment [5] stimulates the body’s immune response to combat the wart virus.

Prevention and Aftercare for Skin Tag and Wart Removal

While not all skin tags and warts can be prevented, certain habits can reduce the chances of developing them.

Here are some tips to prevent skin tags:

• Minimise friction: Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid excessive rubbing of the skin, especially in areas prone to skin tags.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Reducing excess skin folds can help lower the chances of friction-related skin tags.
• Keep skin dry and clean: Apply talcum powder or anti-friction creams in high-friction areas to reduce irritation.
• Regular skincare: Moisturise and cleanse your skin to maintain skin health and prevent irritation that may contribute to skin tags.

Preventing warts:

• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands regularly and avoid touching warts on yourself or others.
• Avoid sharing: Do not share personal items such as towels, razors, socks, or nail clippers to prevent the spread of HPV.
• Wear protective footwear: Use sandals in public areas such as locker rooms, pools, and showers to reduce the risk of plantar warts.
• Cover wounds: HPV enters through breaks in the skin, so covering wounds can help prevent infection.
• Strengthen immunity: A strong immune system can help fight off HPV infections. Maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress are some ways to improve your immune system.
• HPV vaccination: Vaccines are available to protect against certain strains of the HPV virus that cause genital warts.

Aftercare for Skin Tag and Wart Removal

Proper aftercare ensures a smooth healing process and reduces the risk of infection or recurrence after removal procedures. Here are some tips for aftercare:

• Keep the area clean and dry: Gently wash with mild soap and water, and pat dry to avoid irritation.
• Avoid picking or scratching: Let scabs fall off naturally to prevent scarring or infection.
• Protect the treated area: Apply an antibiotic ointment if required and cover with a bandage if necessary.
• Minimise sun exposure: Apply sunscreen to prevent hyperpigmentation or scarring in exposed areas.
• Follow post-procedure instructions: Depending on the removal method, you should follow your dermatologist’s specific aftercare guidelines.
• Cryotherapy (Freezing): A blister may form after treatment, and you should keep it clean and avoid popping it.
• Electrocautery and Laser Removal: Avoid excessive moisture and direct sun exposure.
• Shave Excision Surgery: Keep the wound covered as advised, and follow up with your doctor if you have excessive pain or signs of infection.
• Topical Treatments: Apply as directed and avoid using on broken or irritated skin.

How to Choose the Right Dermatologist for Skin Tags and Wart Removal

Selecting the appropriate dermatologist for skin tag and wart removal is essential to ensure effective and safe treatment. It’s important to choose a board-certified dermatologist who has completed specialised training and is experienced in diagnosing and treating various skin growths.

Another important consideration is the range of treatment options available. A dermatologist should offer multiple treatment options tailored to individual needs, such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or minor surgical procedures. This ensures that patients receive personalised care suited to their specific condition and requirements.

Choosing a dermatologist who offers consultations also ensures that your concerns are addressed promptly. During the consultation, assess whether the dermatologist provides clear explanations and is open to answering questions, fostering a comfortable and transparent experience.

For treatment or advice for skin tag and wart removal in Singapore, consider consulting Dr. Sean Leong at Livingstone Dermatology. With over a decade of clinical experience, Dr. Leong has honed his skills in treating various skin conditions, with his prior roles at National University Hospital and National Skin Centre equipping him with extensive expertise in dermatology. Schedule a consultation at Livingstone Dermatology today.

Conclusion

While they may appear similar, understanding the distinctions between skin tags and warts is important for effective treatment and prevention. Skin tags are benign, non-contagious growths often resulting from skin friction, while warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are contagious. Accurate identification by a dermatologist is essential for treatment or removal options for both skin growths, while minimising concern and preventing the spread of warts.