Can small skin tags on the body be cut off?
Disease description:
I am a 30-year-old female. Recently, I noticed several small skin growths on my body. They are neither painful nor itchy, but I find them aesthetically displeasing. I want to remove them myself with scissors, but I am concerned about potential risks. Is it safe to cut off these small skin growths by myself?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Small skin tags should not be cut off by oneself, as this practice may lead to infection or other health problems. These small growths are usually benign skin lesions, such as fibromas or sebaceous gland hyperplasia, and although mostly harmless, self-removal may result in wound infection, bleeding, or scarring. Additionally, some skin growths may be related to viral infections, such as common warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Cutting them may spread the virus or lead to recurrence. Therefore, any treatment should be performed under the guidance of a qualified physician.
If removal is desired, it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital or dermatology clinic to consult a professional doctor. The doctor will make a diagnosis based on the specific condition and choose an appropriate treatment method, such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgical excision. In daily life, maintain good skin hygiene and avoid repeated friction or irritation of the affected area to reduce discomfort or the risk of infection. If skin tags suddenly increase in number, grow larger, or become painful, prompt medical consultation is advised to rule out the possibility of underlying diseases.
