Skin Tag Removal

Quick answer: Skin Tag Removal affects roughly 1 in 4 adults in our practice. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Township practices. Call (810) 206-1402.

✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8v4GNFQD7bQ

Skin Tag Removal
in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI

Safe, professional skin tag removal by experienced podiatrists at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist—serving patients in Howell, Bloomfield Township, and nearby Michigan communities.

Schedule a Skin Tag Evaluation https://youtu.be/OBhpphxW5lw

What Is Skin Tag Removal?

Professional Skin Tag Removal by a Podiatrist

Skin tags are common, benign growths that can develop on the feet, ankles, or toes due to friction or pressure. While many skin tags are harmless, those that become painful, irritated, or caught on footwear may require professional treatment.

At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, our podiatrists safely evaluate and remove skin tags using sterile, in-office medical techniques.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, benign skin growths commonly occurring on the neck, armpits, eyelids, groin, and other areas where skin creases or folds.

They are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters.

Skin tags are typically harmless, but they can be a cosmetic concern for some people or cause discomfort if they rub against clothing or jewelry.

Statistics & Studies

Skin tags are common in adults and affect up to 46% of the population.

Although the exact cause of skin tags is unknown, studies have suggested that they may be related to obesity, insulin resistance, and hormonal changes.

One study found that skin tags were more prevalent in individuals with type 2 diabetes and that the frequency of skin tags increased with increasing levels of insulin resistance.

Other studies have found a positive association between skin tags and obesity, with higher BMI and waist circumference being risk factors for skin tag development.

One study showed that individuals who lost weight significantly reduced the number of skin tags they had, suggesting a link between obesity and skin tag formation.

Serving Howell, Bloomfield Township & Nearby Michigan Cities

If you’re searching for skin tag removal near me, Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist offers professional, in-office treatment at our Howell and Bloomfield Township, Michigan podiatry clinics. Our locations make it easy for patients to receive safe, medically supervised skin tag removal close to home—without relying on at-home methods or cosmetic procedures that can lead to infection or scarring.

We proudly serve patients from surrounding Michigan communities, including Brighton, Hartland, Fenton, South Lyon, Milford, Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, and Auburn Hills. Whether your skin tag is painful, irritated by footwear, or needs professional evaluation, our podiatrists provide convenient, expert care close to home.

Pregnancy & Hormone Changes:

Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause have also been associated with an increased incidence of skin tags.

One study found that skin tags were more prevalent in pregnant women than non-pregnant women and that the frequency of skin tags increased with the duration of pregnancy.

The exact mechanism by which obesity, insulin resistance, and hormonal changes contribute to skin tag formation is still unknown.

It has been suggested that genetic and environmental factors may cause skin tags.

Causes of Skin Tags:

The exact cause of skin tags is unknown, but several factors may contribute to their development. Here are some of the most common causes of skin tags:

1. Friction: Skin tags often develop where the skin rubs against clothing, other skin, or jewelry. This friction may irritate the skin and cause skin tags to form.
2. Genetics: Some people may be more prone to developing skin tags due to genetic factors.
3. Age: Skin tags are more common in older adults, although they can occur at any age.
4. Obesity: People who are overweight or obese may be more likely to develop skin tags, possibly due to the increased friction and skin folds in these individuals.
5. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy may contribute to developing skin tags.
6. Diabetes: People with diabetes may be more likely to develop skin tags, although the exact reason is unknown.
7. Human papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV have been linked to the development of skin tags, although this is rare.

It is important to note that while these factors may contribute to developing skin tags, not everyone exposed to them will create skin tags. Skin tags are typically harmless, but if you are concerned about a skin tag or are considering removing it, it is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist.

Skin Tag Symptoms:

Skin tags are typically benign and harmless, and many people may not experience any symptoms. However, some people may notice certain symptoms associated with skin tags. Here are some of the most common skin tag symptoms:

1. Appearance: Skin tags usually appear as small, soft, fleshy growths on the skin. They may be flesh-colored or slightly darker and can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters.
2. Location: Skin tags often develop in areas where the skin creases or folds, such as the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, chest, and back.
3. Number: Some people may develop multiple skin tags in a single area or across different body areas.
4. Irritation: Skin tags may become irritated if they rub against clothing or jewelry, causing discomfort or itching.
5. Bleeding: Rarely, skin tags may become irritated or injured, causing them to bleed.

It is important to note that while skin tags are typically harmless, some skin growths, such as moles or lesions, can be cancerous.

Are Skin Tags Cancerous?

Skin tags are not cancerous growths. They are benign, harmless increases commonly occurring on the neck, armpits, eyelids, groin, and other body areas where skin creases or folds. Skin tags are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters.

While skin tags are not cancerous, it is essential to note that some skin growths, such as moles or lesions, can be cancerous. If you notice a new or unusual skin growth, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can perform a skin biopsy or other tests to determine if the growth is cancerous or benign.

In summary, skin tags are not cancerous growths. However, it is essential to have any new or unusual skin growths evaluated by a healthcare provider or dermatologist to determine if they are cancerous or benign.

Most Common Skin Tag Locations

Skin tags can occur on any body part but most commonly develop in areas where the skin creases or folds. Here are some of the most common skin tag locations:

1. Neck: Skin tags commonly occur on the neck, particularly around the base of the neck.
2. Armpits: Skin tags are common in the armpit area, where the skin rubs against clothing and other skin.
3. Eyelids: Skin tags can occur on the eyelids, although they may be more noticeable and potentially bothersome in this area due to their location.
4. Groin: Skin tags can develop in the groin area, where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
5. Chest: Skin tags can develop on the chest, particularly in the area between the breasts.
6. Back: Skin tags can develop on the back, particularly where clothing or backpack straps rub against the skin.
7. Abdomen: Skin tags can develop on the stomach, particularly where skin rubs against clothing or skin.
8. Under the breasts: Skin tags can develop under the breasts, particularly in women with larger breasts.
9. Face: Skin tags can develop on the front, particularly around the eyes and mouth.

It is important to note that skin tags can also occur in other areas of the body, and their location can vary from person to person. While skin tags are typically harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern or cause discomfort if they rub against clothing or jewelry.

Prevention:

There is no sure way to prevent skin tags from developing, but some steps can be taken to reduce the risk of their formation. Here are some tips for preventing skin tags:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity and excess weight have been linked to an increased risk of skin tag development. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise may help reduce the risk of skin tags.

• Avoid skin irritation: Skin irritation and friction can affect skin tag formation. Avoid wearing tight clothing, jewelry, or other items that may rub against the skin and cause irritation.

• Good skin hygiene: Keeping the skin clean and dry can help prevent skin irritation and inflammation that may contribute to skin tag formation.

• Manage underlying conditions: Certain underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or hormonal imbalances, may increase the risk of skin tag formation. Managing these conditions through proper medical care may help reduce the risk of skin tags.

• Sun protection: Overexposure to the sun can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin tags. Wearing protective clothing and sunscreen can help prevent skin damage and reduce the risk of skin tags.

While these tips may help reduce the risk of skin tag formation, it is essential to note that some people may be more prone to developing skin tags due to genetic factors or other unknown causes. If you notice a new or unusual skin growth, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How to Get Rid of Skin Tags at Home:

• While several home remedies are often recommended for treating skin tags, limited scientific evidence supports their effectiveness.
• It’s important to note that attempting to remove skin tags at home can be dangerous and may result in infection, bleeding, or scarring.
• If you are concerned about a skin tag or are considering removing it, it is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
• Here are some common home remedies that are often recommended for treating skin tags:

Tea tree oil:

• Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and has been used for treating various skin conditions.
• One small study found that applying tea tree oil to skin tags twice a day for four weeks significantly reduced the size and appearance of the skin tags.
• However, the study was small and further research is needed to confirm these findings.

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Apple cider vinegar:

• Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for various skin conditions, including skin tags.
• It is believed that the acidity of the vinegar causes the skin tag to dry out and fall off. However, no scientific evidence supports this claim, and some people may experience skin irritation or burns from the vinegar.

Vitamin E:

• Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that is believed to have skin-healing properties
• Some people apply vitamin E oil directly to skin tags to help reduce their size and appearance. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of this remedy.

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Garlic:

• Garlic is believed to have antifungal and antibacterial properties and has been used for treating various skin conditions.
• Some people apply crushed garlic directly to skin tags and cover it with a bandage overnight. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of this remedy, and garlic can cause skin irritation and burns.

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Duct tape:

• Some people use duct tape to remove skin tags by covering the label with tape and leaving it in place for several days. The video is removed, and a sterile instrument scraps the skin tag. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of this remedy, and it can result in skin irritation or infection.

Amarose Skin Tag Remover

Amarose Skin Tag Remover is an over-the-counter product that claims to remove skin tags effectively.

It is a topical solution applied directly to the skin tag, causing it to dry up and fall off within a few days.

The product contains natural ingredients such as Thuja Occidentalis, essential oils, and plant extracts that are believed to have skin-healing properties.

While some people may find Amarose Skin Tag Remover compelling, it is essential to note that the effectiveness of this product may vary from person to person, and it may not be suitable for all types of skin tags.

Additionally, it is essential to follow the instructions carefully and consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist if you have any concerns about a skin tag or are considering removing it.

It is also important to note that attempting to remove skin tags at home can be dangerous and may result in infection, bleeding, or scarring.

If you are concerned about a skin tag or are considering removing it, it is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for safe and effective removal options.

Skin Tag Dental Floss Treatment

Skin tag dental floss treatment, also known as ligation, involves tying a piece of dental floss tightly around the base of a skin tag to cut off its blood supply.

This causes the skin tag to fall off on its own eventually.

While this skin tag removal method is often recommended as a home remedy, it can be dangerous and result in infection, bleeding, or scarring.

It is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for safe and effective skin tag removal.

Risk Factors?

• In addition to the risks associated with skin tag dental floss treatment, it may also not be effective for all types of skin tags.
• Larger skin tags may require a more invasive removal method, such as surgical excision or electrocautery.

Bottom line: while several home remedies are often recommended for treating skin tags, limited scientific evidence supports their effectiveness. Attempting to remove skin tags at home can be dangerous and may result in infection, bleeding, or scarring. If you are concerned about a skin tag or are considering removing it, it is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist.

How to Cut Off Skin Tags Painlessly?

• If a healthcare provider or dermatologist has recommended cutting off a skin tag, they will typically numb the area with a local anesthetic to minimize pain during the procedure. They may use a scalpel or scissors to cut the skin tag off at its base. This is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure that can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic.

• It is important to note that attempting to cut off a skin tag at home can be dangerous and may result in infection, bleeding, or scarring. It is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for safe and effective removal options. Additionally, following your doctor’s instructions for aftercare is essential to avoid complications such as bleeding or infection.

In summary, cutting off a skin tag should only be done by a healthcare provider or dermatologist who can provide safe and effective removal options. They typically numb the area with a local anesthetic to minimize pain during the procedure. Following your doctor’s instructions for aftercare is essential to avoid complications such as bleeding or infection.

Risk Factors?

• In addition to the risks associated with skin tag dental floss treatment, it may also not be effective for all types of skin tags.
• Larger skin tags may require a more invasive removal method, such as surgical excision or electrocautery.

Podiatrist Treatment for Skin Tag

Skin tags are typically harmless and do not require treatment. However, if they are causing discomfort or are a cosmetic concern, they can be easily removed by a dermatologist or other healthcare provider. There are several methods for removing skin tags, including:

• While skin tags are typically harmless, they can be a cosmetic concern or cause discomfort if they rub against clothing or jewelry.
• A podiatrist or dermatologist can provide safe and effective removal options for skin tags. Here are some methods that a doctor may use to remove skin tags:

Excision:

• Excision involves cutting the skin tag off with a scalpel or scissors. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area before the procedure.
• Excision is a standard method for removing skin tags and is considered safe and effective.

Cryotherapy:

• Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, which causes it to fall off within a few days.
• Cryotherapy is a non-invasive method of removing skin tags and is considered safe and effective. However, it may not be suitable for larger skin tags.

Electrocautery:

• Electrocautery: This involves burning the skin tag off with an electric current.
• Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area before the procedure.
• Electrocautery is a safe and effective method for removing skin tags, but it may not be suitable for larger skin tags.

Ligation:

• Ligation: This involves tying a string or thread tightly around the base of the skin tag, cutting off the blood supply and causing it to fall off within a few days. Ligation is a safe and effective method for removing skin tags, but it may not be suitable for larger skin tags.

Studies:

• Studies have shown that all these methods are safe and effective for removing skin tags.
• One study found that excision was the most common method of removing skin tags and had a success rate of 99.3%. Cryotherapy had a success rate of 93.5%, while electrocautery had a success rate of 94.2%. Ligation had a success rate of 98.8%.
• While skin tag removal procedures are considered safe and have minimal risks, following your doctor’s instructions for aftercare is essential to avoid complications such as bleeding or infection.
• In rare cases, scarring or changes in skin pigmentation may occur.

Bottom line: a doctor or dermatologist can provide safe and effective removal options for skin tags, including excision, cryotherapy, electrocautery, and ligation. These methods are safe and effective for removing skin tags, but following your doctor’s instructions for aftercare is essential to avoid complications.

The Top 10 Over-the-Counter Skin Tag Removers:

Several skin tag removers are available, including over-the-counter products and home remedies. However, it is essential to note that not all these products are effective or safe for removing skin tags. It is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for safe and effective skin tag removal options. Here are some of the most commonly recommended skin tag removers:

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1. TagBand Skin Tag Removal Kit: This popular skin tag removal kit uses a tight band to cut off the blood supply to the skin tag, eventually causing it to fall off.
2. Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that can treat various skin conditions, including skin tags. Applying tea tree oil to the skin tag may help reduce its size and appearance over time.
3. Compound W Skin Tag Remover: This over-the-counter product contains salicylic acid, a keratolytic agent that can help remove skin tags.
4. Dermabellix: This topical skin tag remover claims to work by drying the skin tag and causing it to fall off within a few days.
5. SkinPro Extreme Skin Tag Remover: This is an over-the-counter product that contains a blend of natural ingredients, including Thuja Occidentalis, which is believed to have skin tag removal properties.
6. Revitol Skin Tag Remover: This topical cream claims to work by breaking down the skin tag cells and causing them to fall off.
7. Apothecary Tea Tree Oil Skin Tag Remover: This over-the-counter product contains tea tree oil and other natural ingredients that can help reduce the appearance of skin tags.
8. PowerStep Skin Tag Remover: This over-the-counter product uses a cryogenic freezing method to remove skin tags.
9. HaloDerm Skin Tag Remover: This topical cream claims to work by penetrating the skin tag and causing it to dry up and fall off.
10. WartStick Skin Tag Remover: This over-the-counter product contains salicylic acid and claims to be effective for removing skin tags.

It is important to note that the effectiveness and safety of these skin tag removers may vary, and some may be more suitable for certain types of skin tags than others. It is best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for safe and effective skin tag removal options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is skin tag removal?

Skin tag removal is a safe, in-office procedure performed by a podiatrist to remove small, benign skin growths on the feet, toes, or ankles. The procedure is quick, minimally uncomfortable, and helps prevent irritation, infection, or catching on shoes.

Is skin tag removal painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Our podiatrists use safe, sterile techniques to reduce pain and promote proper healing.

Can I remove a skin tag at home?

Home removal is not recommended, as it can cause bleeding, infection, or scarring. Professional removal ensures safety, effectiveness, and proper care.

How long does it take to heal after skin tag removal?

Healing typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the size and location of the skin tag. Your podiatrist will provide aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.

Is skin tag removal covered by insurance or Medicare?

Coverage depends on medical necessity. If a skin tag causes pain, bleeding, or infection, insurance or Medicare may cover the procedure. Our office can verify your coverage before your visit.

Where can you get skin tags removed?

If you are in Howell or Bloomfield Township, Michigan, you can visit the Howell or Bloomfield Township offices of Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist for professional skin tag evaluation and removal. Our experienced podiatrists provide safe, in-office treatment for skin tags on the feet, toes, and ankles using sterile, medical techniques to ensure comfort and proper healing.

How do you remove skin tags?

Skin tags on the feet are typically removed in a safe, in-office procedure by a podiatrist. Methods may include trimming with sterile instruments, freezing (cryotherapy), or other medically approved techniques. It’s recommended to see a local podiatrist, such as Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell or Bloomfield Township, Michigan, to ensure proper removal, minimize the risk of infection, and promote proper healing.

Get Safe Skin Tag Removal Near You

Don’t let painful or irritating skin tags affect your comfort. Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist provides professional, in-office skin tag removal in a safe, sterile, and comfortable environment.

Serving Howell, Bloomfield Township, and nearby Michigan communities, our experienced podiatrists can evaluate your skin tags and provide gentle removal—so you can walk comfortably and confidently again.

Schedule Your Skin Tag Evaluation Call Our Office Today

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