Have you noticed small, benign growths on your skin areas, such as the neck, underarms, or groin? These growths, known as skin tags, are usually harmless and not painful. However, some people may want to get them removed for cosmetic reasons or any associated discomfort. Hence, most people opt for removal patches, which contain medication or herbal remedies to remove skin tags. But how do they work and more importantly, are they safe? We spoke to Dr Shireen Furtado, Senior Consultant, Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, who explained how skin tag removal patches work and their associated side effects.
What Are Skin Tag Removal Patches?
"Skin tag removal patches contain medication or herbal remedies that can help in removing skin tags. You need to apply the patch on your skin tag to remove it. After applying the patch to your skin tag, it gets absorbed by the growth, which will cause it to fall off," said Dr Furtado. The process may take several days to a few weeks, depending on the size and location of the skin tag.
However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned regarding the risks associated with using over-the-counter products for removing skin tags. You may experience side effects, such as skin damage, potential infections that may necessitate antibiotics, and the possibility of scarring.
Are Skin Tag Removal Patches Safe?
"The safety of skin tag patches largely depends on the skin of the person, their sensitivity, and any pre-existing skin conditions. Many users are positive towards overall results, but side effects must also be considered," said Dr Furtado. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), it is advised to consult a healthcare expert before removing your skin tags. This is because some growths on the skin can appear as tags but are warts or skin cancer.
- Skin Irritation: You may notice redness, itching, or a burning sensation when using these patches. This may be due to the active ingredients being too harsh for their skin type.
- Allergic Reactions: Some formulations contain essential oils or plant extracts that can cause swelling or discomfort.
- Infections: You may develop infections if the patch is applied to broken or irritated skin due to bacteria exposure.
- Scarring: In rare cases, some people may even report scarring or dark spots after the skin tag falls off if they develop keloids or hyperpigmentation
Best Practices for Using Skin Tag Removal Patches Safely
To minimise the risks and maximise the effectiveness, follow these expert-recommended practices:
- Before using a skin tag removal patch, especially if you have underlying skin conditions, seek medical advice.
- Follow the instructions supplied by the manufacturer to reduce the chances of having an adverse reaction.
- Test the patch on a small skin area before use to check for potential allergic reactions.
- You should wash and dry the skin before applying the patch to reduce the risk of infections.
Bottomline
Dr Furtado concluded, "Most larger skin tags, or those in sensitive locations, usually require a professional evaluation and treatment rather than at-home remedies. Overall, removal patches for skin tags can be safe for some people, while others need to know the safety profile and side effects before using it."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]