Don't Do It Yourself: Why You Need to Go in to Remove a Skin Tag or Wart

We’ve all been there — spotting an annoying skin tag or wart and formulating a game plan to remove it ourselves. Maybe you’ve even seen a slick DIY hack on social media or heard about a home remedy that “worked” for a friend of a friend. 

Before you grab the scissors, apple cider vinegar, duct tape, or any other makeshift surgical instrument, get advice from Dr. Caleigh Rodriguez. 

Skin tag and wart removal are one of our specialties, and in this blog, we cover a few reasons why you should avail yourself of our expertise rather than go after your skin issues solo. 

A closer look at the problem

Skin tags and warts are both types of skin growth. 

Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that appear in areas when skin rubs together, such as the neck, armpit, and groin. Skin tags aren’t a health threat but can be bothersome or embarrassing. 

Warts result from a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. They’re usually small, rough bumps that can appear anywhere on the body, especially on the hands, feet, and fingers. 

You may attempt to remove these growths, but we’re here to show you why that’s a bad idea. 

Infection risk

Our primary concern with bathroom surgery is the risk of infection. Cutting, burning, or freezing skin growths without properly sterilizing or preparing your tools can introduce bacteria into your skin, leading to redness, swelling, and even more serious complications like cellulitis. 

Pain and bleeding

You might not think removing your skin tag or wart will hurt, but it can be much more painful than you bargained for. Skin tags have small blood vessels, so cutting them can cause significant bleeding. Warts, especially plantar warts, can be deeply rooted in your skin, making removal tricky and painful. 

Scarring

Improper removal methods can leave behind scarring and/or discoloration, especially if you wind up with an infection. 

You might not be dealing with a skin tag or wart

Sometimes, skin tags and warts aren’t what you think they are. Some moles and even early signs of skin cancer can look similar. Removing any lesion at home without a proper diagnosis could delay necessary medical care. 

Warts can spread

Warts are viral, and improper removal can cause them to spread to various parts of your body or even to other people. Only a medical professional can ensure safe and total removal. 

The doctor difference

Dr. Rodriguez can safely and effectively remove skin tags and warts using sterile tools and medically approved techniques. When you see us for skin growth removal, we ensure you receive:

• Painless or minimally painful removal
• Sterile and safe procedure
• Proper diagnosis

While removing a skin tag or wart at home may seem easier or cheaper, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Visit our expert for safe, effective, pain-free removal without worrying about infection, scarring, and misdiagnosis. 

Need help with a skin tag or wart? Call our friendly staff at 830-745-4631 or use our online booking feature to schedule an evaluation. We proudly serve those in the New Braunfels, Texas, area.