Cauterization
Cauterization is a quick and effective way to remove skin tags. The procedure uses an electric current to destroy the tissue of the tag. Dermatologists have performed cauterization since the 1950s.
Skin tags can be removed when they are small or large—the process is the same with either size. Small tags can be removed using a sterile needle and tweezers to remove them from their base. Cauterizing with a needle and tweezers is also an option, but cauterizing after removing it from its base is easier and more effective at preventing the re-growth of the skin tag. Larger tags can be removed using an electrocautery unit applied directly on the skin tag (similar to how a tattoo artist applies ink). This will burn away the entire growth from its roots, which prevents it from regrowing in that spot again.
Aftercare for both methods includes keeping the area clean and dry for about two weeks, followed by gentle exfoliation if needed. The site will be red for a few weeks, but this should go away with time. If the skin tag is removed from its base and doesn’t regrow, it will take up to six months for new skin cells to grow and fill in the space where the growth used to be.
