Friction & Skin Folds
The most significant factor in skin tag development. Repeated rubbing of skin against skin, clothing, or jewelry in areas like the neck, armpits, groin, and under breasts creates conditions for tag formation.1
Understanding & Treating Skin Tags
Skin tags are among the most common benign skin growths, affecting up to 50-60% of adults at some point in their lives.1 While completely harmless, these small flaps of tissue can become irritated by clothing, jewelry, or shaving, prompting many people to seek treatment options.
At Hideaway Spa, we specialize in professional thermolysis treatments for skin tags using the Skin Classic device — a precise, low-scarring method ideal for treating multiple skin tags safely and effectively. Whether you're dealing with a single bothersome tag or multiple growths, understanding your options helps you make the best decision for your skin.
Why choose professional treatment for skin tags? While single skin tags may respond to at-home methods, professional thermolysis offers the lowest scarring risk and most reliable results, especially when treating multiple tags or delicate areas like the eyelids and neck.2
Skin Tags
Personalized treatment planning
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"Erika did an amazing job taking a skin tag off of my eye. Took only a few seconds to do it after consulting me. The pictures show how huge it was on my eye and then how it looked less than two weeks later."
— Len Ziraldo
"I came to hopefully remove a tag that was just beneath my eye... Erica was able to talk me through all of my anxieties before we began... I would highly recommend going to Erica for anyone considering doing a treatment like this."
— Misty & Me 360
"High quality spa services and products. Everything is clean and hygienic. She cares about giving great service to her clients."
— Laura P.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft, benign (noncancerous) growths that protrude from the skin on a narrow stalk called a peduncle. They typically appear as flesh-colored or slightly darker bumps ranging from 1-5 millimeters in size, though larger ones occasionally develop.
Common Characteristics
- Appearance: Soft, wrinkled tissue that hangs from a thin stalk; may be flesh-colored, brown, or slightly darker than surrounding skin
- Size: Usually 1-5mm, but can grow larger (up to several centimeters in rare cases)
- Texture: Soft and movable; not firmly attached like moles
- Locations: Most common on neck, underarms (axillae), groin, eyelids, under breasts, and upper chest — areas where skin folds or experiences friction1
- Symptoms: Usually asymptomatic, but may become irritated, itchy, painful, or bleed if caught on clothing, jewelry, or during shaving
Are Skin Tags Dangerous?
Skin tags are completely benign with no risk of becoming cancerous. They are not contagious and pose no health threat. However, sudden appearance of multiple skin tags, especially in unusual patterns, may warrant medical evaluation as they can occasionally be associated with underlying metabolic conditions like insulin resistance or diabetes.3
How Skin Tags Form — The Science
Skin tags develop when clusters of collagen fibers and blood vessels become trapped within thicker areas of skin. This creates excess tissue growth in both the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (underlying layer), forming the characteristic pedunculated (stalk-like) structure.
The exact biological mechanism isn't fully understood, but research suggests a combination of mechanical friction, hormonal factors, and genetic predisposition contribute to their formation. The areas where skin tags commonly appear — body folds and high-friction zones — support the friction hypothesis.1
What Causes Skin Tags?
While the exact cause remains unclear, several contributing factors have been identified through dermatological research. Understanding these risk factors can help explain why certain individuals develop more skin tags than others.
Age & Genetics
Prevalence increases significantly with age, typically beginning in middle adulthood (40+). Family history plays a role — if your parents or siblings have numerous skin tags, you're more likely to develop them as well.
Hormonal Changes
More frequent during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations and weight gain that increases skin friction. Many pregnancy-related skin tags resolve spontaneously postpartum, though some persist.4
Metabolic Factors
Strong association with obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol (dyslipidemia), metabolic syndrome, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Studies suggest 25-50% of people with multiple skin tags may have underlying insulin resistance.3
Body Weight
Higher BMI correlates with increased skin tag frequency, likely due to greater skin fold development and friction. Weight loss sometimes reduces new tag formation but doesn't eliminate existing ones.
Other Associations
Some research has identified human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in certain skin tags, though this connection remains debated and is not considered a primary cause. Hormonal imbalances beyond pregnancy may also contribute in some cases.5
When to See a Doctor: If you develop multiple skin tags suddenly, or if any growth changes in appearance, color, or sensation, consult a healthcare provider. While skin tags themselves are harmless, sudden onset may indicate an underlying metabolic condition worth investigating.
⚠️ Critical First Step: Verify It's Actually a Skin Tag
Before attempting ANY treatment method (home or professional), proper identification is essential. What appears to be a skin tag could actually be:
Common Look-Alikes
- Warts - require different treatment; viral
- Moles - need medical evaluation; can be atypical
- Seborrheic keratoses - benign but different structure
- Neurofibromas - need medical assessment
- Basal cell carcinoma - requires medical treatment
Warning Signs - Seek Medical Evaluation
- Irregular borders or asymmetry
- Multiple colors within the growth
- Bleeding without trauma or irritation
- Rapid growth or changing appearance
- Painful without obvious cause
- Hard or firmly attached (not movable)
Our Professional Assessment Process
At Hideaway Spa, every growth is examined using a dermatoscope (dermlite) before treatment. This specialized magnification tool allows detailed visualization of skin structures to:
- Confirm the growth is indeed a benign skin tag (acrochordon)
- Rule out concerning features that require medical referral
- Assess blood supply and depth for appropriate treatment planning
- Document baseline appearance for clinical records
Any lesion exhibiting irregular features, suspicious pigmentation, or clinical uncertainty is referred to a physician or dermatologist before treatment proceeds.
⚠️ Never treat a growth at home without being absolutely certain of what it is. When in doubt, get professional assessment.
Skin Tag Treatment Options: Complete Comparison
Once a growth is confirmed as a benign skin tag, several treatment methods exist ranging from at-home approaches to professional medical treatments. Below is an evidence-based comparison to help you understand the pros, cons, and risks of each option.
| Method | How It Works | Best For | Scarring Risk | Time to Result | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tying Off (Ligation) | Dental floss or string tied around base cuts off blood supply; tag dries and falls off | Small, accessible tags with narrow stalks | Low-Moderate | 5-10 days | $0-50 |
| OTC Freezing Kits | Consumer cryotherapy products freeze tissue, causing blister and shedding | Single small tag; convenient home use | Moderate | 10-14 days | $10-30 |
| Professional Cryotherapy | Dermatologist applies liquid nitrogen (-196°C) to freeze and destroy tag tissue | Small to medium tags in accessible areas | Moderate | 10-14 days | $50-200 |
| Surgical Excision | Doctor cuts tag with scissors or scalpel, may use local anesthesia and sutures | Large tags or those requiring pathology | Moderate-High | Immediate (7-10 day healing) | $100-300 |
| Laser Treatment | Laser energy vaporizes tag tissue through targeted heat | Multiple small tags; vascular tags | Moderate | 3-7 days | $150-500+ |
| Thermolysis (Our Method) | Radiofrequency probe dehydrates tag base; body naturally sheds treated tissue | Multiple tags; delicate areas; all skin tones | Very Low | 3-7 days (full healing 21 days) | $50-200 |
Cost estimates reflect typical Windsor/Ontario market rates as of 2025. Individual needs and outcomes vary.
Understanding Risks & Complications for All Methods
Every treatment method carries potential risks. Understanding these helps you make informed decisions and set realistic expectations.
At-Home Tying Off (Ligation) - Risks
- Infection: Non-sterile materials can introduce bacteria (cellulitis, abscess)
- Incomplete removal: Loose ties may cause partial necrosis requiring professional intervention
- Excessive bleeding: Vascular tags may bleed heavily if disturbed
- Prolonged pain: Strangulation process painful for 3-7 days
- Scarring: Improper technique increases scar formation
- Misdiagnosis: Treating wrong lesion type can delay proper care
OTC Freezing Kits - Risks
- Inadequate freezing: Consumer products less powerful than medical-grade; incomplete treatment common
- Damage to surrounding skin: Difficult to control freeze zone; healthy skin can be injured
- Blistering and pain: Freeze reaction causes significant blistering for 7-14 days
- Infection: Open blisters and damaged skin vulnerable without proper wound care
- Pigmentation changes: Hypopigmentation (lightening) or hyperpigmentation possible
- Multiple treatments needed: Often requires 2-3 applications for full clearance
Professional Cryotherapy - Risks
- Hypopigmentation: Permanent skin lightening possible, especially darker skin tones8
- Blistering: Expected side effect; open blisters can become infected if not kept clean
- Infection: Blistered or damaged skin vulnerable to bacterial infection without proper care
- Nerve damage (rare): Superficial nerve injury possible with aggressive treatment
- Incomplete clearance: Deeply rooted tags may require repeat sessions
- Cold-induced urticaria: Rare allergic reaction to freezing
Surgical Excision - Risks
- Bleeding: Immediate bleeding common; rarely requires cauterization
- Linear scarring: Cutting produces visible scar line
- Infection: Any surgical wound carries infection risk
- Anesthesia reactions: Local anesthetic allergies rare but possible
- Keloid formation: Higher risk in predisposed individuals
- Nerve injury: Small risk if tag near sensory nerves
Laser Treatment - Risks
- Burns: Excessive energy can burn surrounding skin; damaged tissue vulnerable to infection
- Infection: Any laser-induced wound carries infection risk with improper aftercare
- Pigmentation changes: Hyper/hypopigmentation especially in darker skin
- Contraindicated for some skin tones: Many lasers unsafe for Fitzpatrick IV-VI
- Scarring: Deeper penetration can cause permanent marks
- Eye injury: Requires protective eyewear; risk if treating near eyes
- Incomplete treatment: Multiple sessions often needed
Thermolysis (Our Method) - Risks
- Temporary pigmentation changes: Mild hyper/hypopigmentation possible but typically resolves
- Crusting and scabbing: Expected healing response lasting 3-7 days
- Temporary redness: Treatment site may remain pink for 1-3 weeks
- Infection (rare): Any skin injury carries infection risk with improper aftercare
- Incomplete clearance: Large/deep tags may need follow-up (uncommon)
- Scarring (minimal): Lowest risk of all methods when properly performed2
Proper aftercare significantly reduces all risk factors. Strict sun avoidance and no picking at crusts essential.
All risk information based on dermatological literature and clinical experience. Individual outcomes vary based on skin type, lesion characteristics, technique, and aftercare compliance.
Which Method Should You Choose?
The best treatment depends on several factors:
- Number of tags: Single tags may respond well to OTC methods, while multiple tags benefit from professional treatment efficiency
- Location: Delicate areas (eyelids, neck folds) require professional precision
- Skin tone: Darker skin types have higher risk of pigmentation changes with certain methods; thermolysis is safe for all tones2
- Size: Larger tags often require medical-grade treatments
- Scarring concerns: If minimizing scar risk is priority, thermolysis and professional cryotherapy offer best outcomes
Why Home Remedies Aren't Recommended
You may encounter suggestions for home remedies like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, or other topical applications. These methods lack scientific evidence of effectiveness and carry risks of skin irritation, chemical burns, or infection without reliably removing the tag.6
While tying off small tags at home is a recognized technique, it requires proper hygiene and technique. For safety and optimal results, professional treatment is recommended for most cases.
Thermolysis Treatment for Skin Tags at Hideaway Spa
Our thermolysis treatment uses the Skin Classic device to deliver precise radiofrequency energy that dehydrates the skin tag at its base. This process allows your body to naturally heal and shed the treated tissue over the following days — a gentle, low-trauma approach that minimizes scarring risk while providing reliable results.
How Our Treatment Works
During the procedure, a fine probe (sub-millimeter diameter) briefly contacts the skin tag's base for 2-10 seconds depending on size. The controlled radiofrequency energy rapidly dehydrates the tissue without cutting or freezing. Within 3-7 days, the treated tag naturally falls away as your body completes the healing process.
Minimal Scarring
Thermolysis offers the lowest scarring risk of all treatment methods when properly performed. The precise, controlled energy delivery minimizes damage to surrounding tissue.2
Safe for All Skin Tones
Unlike some lasers that target melanin, radiofrequency energy works safely on all skin types (Fitzpatrick I-VI) with equal effectiveness and minimal pigmentation risk.7
Ideal for Multiple Tags
Treatment is quick (a matter of seconds per tag), making it efficient for addressing multiple skin tags in a single session. Most people with 5-30 tags complete treatment in 10-20 minutes total.
Precision for Delicate Areas
Sub-millimeter probe tip allows safe, accurate treatment of tags on eyelids, neck folds, and other sensitive locations where precision is essential.
Well-Tolerated Procedure
Most clients experience only a brief stinging or burning sensation during treatment. The discomfort is momentary and no anesthesia is typically needed for small to medium tags.
Usually One Session
Most skin tags achieve complete clearance after a single treatment session. Larger or more vascular tags may occasionally require a brief follow-up but it's very rare.
What to Expect During Your Visit
- Consultation & Assessment: We examine your skin tags, discuss your goals, and confirm they're appropriate for thermolysis treatment
- Treatment: Each tag is treated individually with brief probe contact (2-10 seconds)
- Immediate Aftercare: Treated areas may appear slightly raised or crusted immediately following treatment
- Natural Healing: Your body naturally sheds the dehydrated tissue over 3-7 days; complete healing within 3 weeks
Session Duration: Most appointments last 10-30 minutes depending on the number of tags being treated. Multiple tags can be addressed in a single visit for efficiency and convenience.
Aftercare Instructions
- Keep treated areas clean and dry for the first 24 hours
- Apply thin layer of antibiotic ointment (we'll supply a packet of bacitracin) as directed
- Avoid direct sun exposure during healing; use SPF 30+ after re-epithelialization
- Critical: Do not pick, scratch, or forcibly remove crusts — allow natural shedding to prevent scarring
- Avoid swimming, hot tubs, and excessive sweating for 48-72 hours
- Mineral makeup may be applied after 24 hours if needed
The Science Behind Thermolysis
Thermolysis uses radiofrequency energy (typically 13.56-27.12 MHz) to generate heat through ionic agitation within tissue fluids. This resistive heating causes targeted protein denaturation and cellular dehydration without cutting or vaporization.
The technique differs from electrocautery (which uses direct current) and laser ablation (which uses light energy). Each pulse lasts only milliseconds, producing controlled, superficial effects that minimize lateral thermal spread and protect surrounding skin.2
Learn more about thermolysis technology on our blemish correction page.
Watch: Real Skin Tag Treatment
See exactly how quickly and safely thermolysis treatment is performed on actual skin tags.
Treatment demonstration both a skin tag and a keratosis being treated around an eye
Skin Tag Treatment Pricing
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We'll help you choose the most cost-effective option during your consultation.
- $50 — Single small skin tag (any location)
- $15 — Each additional small tag (same visit)
- $100 — 10-minute treatment block for multiple tags
- $200 — 20-minute treatment block for extensive treatment
Unsure how many tags you have or which option is best? Book a single spot online and we'll create a treatment plan during your consultation.
Clinical Results — Before & After
These images document actual client outcomes following thermolysis treatment at Hideaway Spa. Individual results vary based on skin tag size, location, and healing response.
Large skin tag on upper eyelid (and keratosis on the side) — complete clearance after single treatment session
Results shown represent typical outcomes. Healing time and scarring vary by individual factors including skin type, tag size, and aftercare compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you remove my skin tags?
Yes, I can treat your skin tags using thermolysis. Here's how it works: I use the Skin Classic device to deliver precise radiofrequency energy that dehydrates the skin tag at its base. This treatment causes the tissue to dry out and detach from its blood supply.
Your body then naturally completes the removal process. Over 3-7 days following treatment, your body's natural healing mechanisms shed the dehydrated tissue as part of normal wound healing.
This is why thermolysis has such low scarring risk — there's no cutting, no pulling, and no forcible removal. The tag simply falls away on its own as your skin heals underneath.
So technically, I perform the treatment that initiates the process, and your body removes the tag through natural healing. This approach respects your skin's biology and produces the cleanest, most natural-looking results with minimal scarring.
Do treated skin tags grow back?
No. Once a skin tag is successfully treated and removed, that specific tag will not regrow. However, if you're prone to skin tags due to friction, genetics, or metabolic factors, new ones may develop in other areas over time. Thermolysis does not prevent new skin tag formation, it addresses existing ones.
Is thermolysis treatment painful?
Most people describe the sensation as a brief sting or burning that lasts only seconds (while the probe is actively in contact). The discomfort is momentary and well-tolerated by most clients without any anesthesia for small to medium tags. Larger tags may cause slightly more sensation but remain manageable. Pain tolerance varies individually.
How many treatment sessions will I need?
The vast majority of skin tags achieve complete clearance after a single treatment session. Occasionally, larger or highly vascular tags may require a brief follow-up treatment if any residual tissue remains after initial healing. Your treatment plan will be discussed during consultation based on your specific tags.
Can I treat skin tags at home safely?
For a single small skin tag with a narrow stalk, carefully tying it off with dental floss can be effective if done with proper hygiene. Over-the-counter freezing products are another option for single tags in accessible locations. However, these methods carry higher risks of infection, incomplete removal, or scarring compared to professional treatment.
For multiple skin tags, delicate locations (eyelids, neck folds), or larger tags, professional treatment offers significantly better outcomes with lower complication risk. Home remedies like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil lack scientific evidence and are not recommended.6
Are skin tags a sign of a serious health condition?
Skin tags themselves are benign and not dangerous. However, having numerous skin tags (especially with sudden onset) can sometimes indicate underlying metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or metabolic syndrome.3
If you develop multiple skin tags suddenly, or if you have other symptoms like unexplained weight changes, increased thirst, or frequent urination, consult your family doctor for metabolic screening. Most people with skin tags have no underlying condition beyond normal age-related changes and friction.
Can thermolysis be used on any skin tag location?
Yes. Thermolysis is safe and effective for skin tags on all body areas including delicate locations like eyelids, neck folds, underarms, groin, and under breasts. The sub-millimeter probe tip allows precise treatment even in sensitive areas where other methods would be risky or impractical. However, be aware that due to reduced bloodflow anything treated below the waist may take longer to heal.
What's the difference between thermolysis and laser treatment?
Thermolysis uses radiofrequency electrical energy to dehydrate tissue, while lasers use focused light energy. Key differences include:
- Precision: Thermolysis offers sub-millimeter targeting ideal for small, delicate areas
- Skin tone safety: Thermolysis works on all skin tones; some lasers contraindicated for darker skin
- Cost: Thermolysis typically more affordable per treatment
- Scarring: Both have low scarring risk when properly performed; thermolysis slightly lower
Both are effective methods. Your choice depends on individual factors, treatment goals, and practitioner expertise. See our full treatment comparison for detailed analysis.
Will my insurance cover skin tag treatment?
Most insurance plans consider skin tag removal cosmetic and elective, so it's typically not covered unless the tag is causing significant functional impairment (e.g., vision obstruction, repeated bleeding from friction). Check with your insurance provider for your specific policy details.
At Hideaway Spa, we offer transparent self-pay pricing with no insurance billing complexities. Our pricing structure makes professional treatment accessible and affordable for most budgets.
How long after treatment until I can exercise or swim?
Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas, and excessive sweating for 48-72 hours post-treatment to prevent infection and allow initial healing. Light exercise is fine, but activities that cause heavy sweating should be postponed for 2-3 days.
After the crust naturally sheds (typically 5-10 days), you may resume all normal activities. Apply sunscreen to treated areas during outdoor exercise once healed to prevent pigmentation changes.
Can I have multiple skin tags treated in one visit?
Absolutely. In fact, thermolysis is particularly efficient for treating multiple skin tags in a single session. Most clients with 5-15 tags complete their treatment within 15-20 minutes. We offer time-block pricing options (10 or 20 minutes) specifically for those addressing multiple tags, which is typically more cost-effective than per-tag pricing.
What device do you use, what devices are similar?
At Hideaway Spa, we personally use a Skin Classic device. Our main Blemish Correction page has a lot more details about our machine and how it works, but generally the Skin Classic, Lamprobe, ThermoClear, SkinSheer, SIIT Pro, Perfect Touch, Skin Sheek, VascuTouch, Lamskin, and ThermoLo all essentially do the same thing.
What other types of blemishes can you treat?
Aside from skin tags, we safely and effectively treat a variety of common benign skin concerns using our Skin Classic device. These include cherry angiomas, sebaceous hyperplasia, milia, cholesterol deposits, age spots, and more. We also can treat a large selection of wrinkles, fine lines, scarring, texture or pigmentation issues with our Procell microchanneling device, a less traumatic form of microneedling using medical grade stem cell/peptide serums.
See all the Skin Classic's treatable skin conditions →
Learn about microchanneling for overall skin texture & rejuvenation →
About Erika — Certified Esthetician & Thermolysis Specialist
Erika Ziraldo brings over 14 years of experience in advanced skincare and has worked alongside dermatology teams using precision thermolysis, laser and RF devices. She maintains specialized training in the Skin Classic system and takes an evidence-based, personalized approach to skin tag treatment in a private studio setting.
With hundreds of successful skin tag treatments completed, Erika combines technical expertise with a gentle, reassuring approach that helps anxious clients feel comfortable throughout their treatment. Learn more about Erika's background and credentials →
Informed Consent & Treatment Protocol
Informed written consent is required before all thermolysis treatments. During your consultation, we'll review the procedure, expected outcomes, potential side effects, and aftercare requirements to ensure you have complete understanding before proceeding.
We request permission for before/after photography for clinical records and potential marketing use; clients may decline public sharing while maintaining private clinical documentation.
Medical Referral Protocol
Any growth exhibiting irregular borders, color variation, asymmetry, rapid growth, bleeding without trauma, or other clinically suspicious features will be referred for medical evaluation before treatment. Thermolysis is performed exclusively on confirmed benign superficial lesions within cosmetic scope of practice.
Disclaimer: Hideaway Spa provides cosmetic thermolysis for benign skin lesions confirmed through visual assessment. This is not a medical service and does not replace physician evaluation. When medical assessment is indicated, we provide referral recommendations and defer treatment pending clearance. Erika Ziraldo is a certified esthetician, not a medical doctor.
References & Scientific Literature
- Banik R, Lubach D. Skin tags: localization and frequencies according to sex and age. Dermatologica. 1987;174(4):180-183.
- Kim DH, Hyun DJ, Piquette R, et al. 27.12 MHz Radiofrequency Ablation for Benign Cutaneous Lesions. Biomed Res Int. 2016;2016:6016943.
- Tamega Ade A, Aranha AM, Guiotoku MM, Miot LD, Miot HA. Association between skin tags and insulin resistance. An Bras Dermatol. 2010;85(1):25-31.
- Kahana M, Grossman E, Feinstein A, Ronnen M, Cohen M, Millet MS. Skin tags: a cutaneous marker for diabetes mellitus. Acta Derm Venereol. 1987;67(2):175-177.
- Dianzani C, Calvieri S, Pierangeli A, et al. The detection of human papillomavirus DNA in skin tags. Br J Dermatol. 1998;138(4):649-651.
- Lipoff JB, Scope A. Skin Tag Removal: An Overview of Current Modalities. Cutis. 2017;99(2):E5-E6.
- Di Brizzi EV, Russo T, Agozzino M, et al. Plasma Radiofrequency Ablation for Treatment of Benign Skin Lesions. Skin Res Technol. 2019;25(6):773-776.
- Kuflik EG. Cryosurgery for Skin Cancer: 30-Year Experience and Cure Rates. Dermatol Surg. 2004;30(2 Pt 2):297-300.