Edmonton Dermatology | Skin Tags and Seborrheic Keratosis
Hi, and welcome to the Edmonton Dermatology YouTube channel. We’re so glad you joined us today. Today, we’re talking about skin tags and seborrheic keratosis. I’m here with Andrea, a registered LPN at Edmonton Dermatology Clinic. She’s going to break this down for us and help us understand these terms because some of them can be quite complex.
I want to start with a quote from Erno Laszlo: “Beautiful skin requires commitment, not a miracle.” I think that’s very true, don’t you?
Yes, definitely. Every day care is key.
So, let’s dive in. I found out that skin tags are more common in women than men, which was surprising.
Yes, I find that men often want to get rid of them quickly and sometimes even try to remove them themselves. Please don’t do that! Those Google and Pinterest tricks can be dangerous. It’s best to come talk to us before attempting to remove them. We’ll explain why this is important.
Yes, that’s a great point. So, let’s back up for a moment.
What exactly are skin tags?
Skin tags are overgrowths of skin cells that literally flap in the wind. They’re commonly found around the neck, underarms, groin area, behind the knees, and even around the eyelids. The ones on the eyelids might not flap as much, but they’re noticeable as small, slightly discolored dots. Some are the same color as your skin but can be felt more easily than seen. They can be annoying and get caught on things. Essentially, they’re just extra skin cell growths.
Why do skin tags grow?
We actually don’t know for sure. Research hasn’t given us a definitive answer. Some dermatologists suggest it’s due to irritation, while others believe it’s genetic. It’s probably a mix of different factors. They’re not caused by sunburn or skincare habits; they just happen. I like to blame genetics—so you can blame your parents for that!
So, are skin tags dangerous?
Not necessarily. However, it’s crucial not to try removing them at home. If they start bleeding or crusting on their own, without irritation or touching, it could be a sign of a possible skin cancer. Here at Edmonton Dermatology, we require a referral from your family doctor to see a dermatologist. Removing something that’s bleeding or crusting can make it harder for us to identify what it actually is. Most skin tags just linger; they may grow a bit but generally just hang around.
How do you treat skin tags?
It depends on whether they’re flat or if they flap around. I usually use electrocautery, which involves using electricity to burn them off the surface. Skin tags grow on the very top layer of your skin, so they don’t have deep roots. If they’re larger, especially in areas like the underarms or groin, we numb them with a local anesthetic and snip them off. All of this is done using a clean technique to minimize the risk of infection.
Can skin tags be permanently removed?
Yes, once you remove a skin tag, it won’t grow back in the same spot. However, if you’re prone to them, you’ll likely grow more elsewhere. Don’t be surprised if you have a treatment and a few years later start seeing new ones pop up. It’s just a natural part of life.
Is there any way to prevent skin tags?
Unfortunately, no. No creams or magical serums will stop them from growing. It’s better to catch them when they’re small, as they’re easier to treat. Larger ones are more challenging and often need to be snipped off.
Let’s move on to the next topic: what is seborrheic keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis, or SKs, are benign spots. They’re essentially an overgrowth of dead skin cells. Normally, our skin cells flake off, but as we age, this process slows down, and the cells accumulate. Some people call them age spots, but I call them experience spots. They’re like barnacles that can appear anywhere. Women often get them around the breast area, and men on their backs, but they can show up on the face too.
Why do seborrheic keratosis spots grow?
We’re not entirely sure. It seems to be age-related, as the skin doesn’t naturally shed as well as we get older. Genetics also play a role. If your parents had them, you’re more likely to get them too.
Are seborrheic keratosis spots dangerous?
No, they’re not. However, like skin tags, if they start bleeding or crusting on their own, you should see a dermatologist. We require a referral from your family doctor for our clinic. Keep an eye on the color of these spots—if they’re very dark or black, have them checked out to make sure they’re not anything serious.
How do you treat seborrheic keratosis?
It depends on the size. I prefer using electrocautery to lightly burn the surface, which then crusts and peels off in a few days. Some dermatologists may use lasers, but the approach can vary.
Can seborrheic keratosis be permanently removed?
Yes, once you remove it, it’s gone. However, you’re likely to grow more because you’re prone to them. It’s easier to treat them when they’re small.
Is there a way to prevent seborrheic keratosis?
Moisturizer can help, as well as retinol creams, especially if they appear on the face. Retinol helps the skin naturally shed. It’s also good for fine lines and wrinkles, so there’s a bonus there! Proper skincare can keep them at bay, but they may still occur.
Thank you so much for providing all this great information!
You’re welcome! If you found this video helpful, please give it a thumbs up, and don’t forget to subscribe to Edmonton Dermatology’s YouTube channel for the latest information on skincare.
Have a great day!