Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Skin Tag? (acrochordon)

A skin tag, or skin growth, is a benign mass of cells (a small tumor) that does not metastasize. As opposed to malignant tumors, i.e. cancerous tumors, a benign tumor, for the most part, grows slowly. Skin tags have a well defined structure. They are often skin colour, but can be darker as well. They are encased by an outer surface called the epithelium. Moles and uterine fibroids are examples of benign tumors.

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How long does the treatment take?

Depending on the size & number of skin tags, minor conditions can be treated in one 15-minute session.

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How many sessions will I need?

Large growths may need two sessions a few weeks apart to create a smooth surface.

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Is the procedure safe?

Yes. Typically, benign skin tags are superficial.

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Does it hurt?

With topical anesthetic application & a specialized cooling system, most clients find these treatments quite comfortable.

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What other methods can be used to treat skin growths?

Many physicians use hyfrecation or liquid nitrogen devices. A hyfrecator applies a direct current to the surface of the skin. With this method you can smell burning flesh & it tends to be very painful. Often, scars are left where the mole or skin tag was. With the liquid nitrogen method, the skin tags are frozen, which actually burns them. This method can cause a fair bit of trauma and is not very effective on more protruding skin growths. Incision with stitches are often used on larger growths with resulting scarring. Laser technology tends to be over the top both in results & cost.

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Is there any special post care I need to do?

Typically, within 3-4 days treated skin tags will fall off & other areas of treatment will begin to form a scab. You should NOT disturb the treated areas by picking or over moisturizing. Removal of skin tags from the face will generally normalize within 10 - 14 days. The neck area may take 21 days. The decolletage may take 30 days, while body areas may take 12 to 24 months to fully balance out in colour. You will also need to avoid steam rooms, saunas, tanning beds & vigorous rubbing of the treated areas for seven to ten days after treating skin tags.

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How is the treatment performed?

The surface of the skin is cleaned & prepped. A fine tipped sterile probe is placed on the surface of the mole or skin tag. Low level RF & DC current is passed through the probe to the area. The growths literally begin to disintegrate while simultaneously being cauterized, so typically no bleeding occurs.

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