Skin tags (or acrochordon) are small, noncancerous growths that are very common, with about half of all adults having at least one in their lifetime. While most skin tags are between 1-5mm, they can grow as large as a few centimeters. They are harmless and do not affect health, yet they can be unsightly and for that reason, many people with skin tags seek to have them removed.(1)
Skin tags are made up of many components, such as collagen fibers, fat, and sometimes nerve cells and tiny blood vessels. They are frequently found in areas of friction on the body, such as skin folds, neck, underarms or eyelids.(2)
There are different methods to remove skin tags, including electrocautery, in which an electric probe is used to burn off the skin tag. Excision, with scissors or scalpel, is another option. A commonly used method is cryosurgery, in which the skin tag is frozen off with a cryogenic gas.(2)
Since cryosurgery only targets the skin tag, little or no damage is done to the surrounding tissue. “Cryosurgery is a good choice for patients with medical conditions that my complicate more invasive surgical methods or have a history of bleeding problems,” states the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. The minimally invasive procedure has few side effects and offers a quick recovery time.(3)
Hydrozid® is an FDA cleared portable cryosurgery device, designed for primary care physicians, pediatricians, dermatologists, and podiatrists, for the treatment of skin tags, warts, and a number of additional benign and premalignant skin conditions. Qualified providers, visit to set up an account and order.
(1) Cleveland Clinic, Skin Tags (Acrochordons), https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21528-skin-tags-acrochordons
(2) Liu, K. MD, MHS, Harvard Health Publishing, Skin Tag Removal: Optional but Effective, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/skin-tag-removal-optional-but-effective-2020032319079
(3) American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Cryosurgery for Skin Conditions, https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/skin-treatments/cryosurgery/cryosurgery-for-skin-growths
