Skin tags (medically termed acrochordons) are soft, flesh-coloured benign growths that typically appear where skin rubs against skin or clothing. As a dermatologist, I frequently encounter them in patients across all age groups - they are not a cause for medical alarm, but their location on visible areas like the neck, eyelids, underarms, groin folds, and under the breasts can affect confidence and comfort.
The procedure is straightforward, well-tolerated, and typically completed within a single outpatient session.
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RF (Radiofrequency) skin tag removal is a minimally invasive dermatological procedure that uses high-frequency electrical energy to precisely ablate and remove skin tags at their base - without cutting, bleeding, or stitches. The surrounding healthy skin remains largely unaffected, making it one of the safest and most precise methods available for skin tag removal. The procedure is performed in-clinic by a dermatologist under topical anaesthesia, and most patients experience little to no discomfort.
RF skin tag removal is generally well-tolerated and considered a low-pain procedure. Before the treatment begins, a topical anaesthetic cream is applied to the treatment area for 20-30 minutes, effectively numbing the skin. During the procedure, patients may feel a mild warm or tingling sensation but rarely report significant pain. Post-procedure discomfort, if any, is minimal and usually resolves within 24-48 hours.
In most cases, skin tags are fully removed in a single RF session. RF technology allows the dermatologist to completely ablate each skin tag in one precise application of energy. The number of tags that can be treated per session depends on their size, number, and location - your dermatologist will assess this during your consultation and provide a clear treatment plan.
When performed by a trained dermatologist, RF skin tag removal carries a very low risk of scarring. The procedure creates a small superficial wound at the treatment site that heals naturally within 7-14 days, leaving smooth skin. Some patients, particularly those with darker skin tones or a history of keloid scarring, may experience temporary post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the treated spot), which typically fades over 4-8 weeks with appropriate sun protection and topical care. Your dermatologist will assess your skin type before proceeding to minimise any risk.
Yes - RF skin tag removal delivers permanent results. Once a skin tag has been successfully ablated using radiofrequency energy, it will not regrow at that specific site. However, it is important to understand that RF treatment removes existing skin tags but does not prevent new ones from forming, particularly if the underlying causes (such as friction, insulin resistance, or hormonal imbalance) remain unaddressed. Your dermatologist may advise certain lifestyle modifications or medical investigations if you have multiple recurrent skin tags.
