What should you know about getting skin tags removed?

A clinician examines the lesion, its attachment, and the surrounding skin. Removal may be considered when a tag catches on clothing or jewellery, becomes irritated, or affects appearance. The approach depends on whether it has a narrow stalk, a broader base, or features that make the diagnosis uncertain. An unexpected appearance may call for further examination instead of immediate cosmetic treatment.

Tell the clinician about medicines that affect bleeding, allergies, healing problems, and previous raised scars. Keep the area clean and avoid picking or shaving over the tag before the appointment. Discuss [Skin Tag Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-tag-removal/), [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/), and [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/) so you understand whether the method uses freezing, heat, or removal of the tissue. Follow the wound-care instructions afterward.

Before treatment, request an assessment if the lesion is changing, hard, multi-coloured, painful, or bleeding without clear friction. After treatment, contact the clinic about worsening pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, heavy bleeding, or a wound that is not improving as expected.

Ask how the diagnosis was made, which method fits the location, whether a sample needs examination, how to protect the wound, and whether a mark or recurrence is possible.