Can You Use Wart Freeze on Skin Tags?

Skin tags typically appear in middle age.

Many over-the-counter wart freezes contain dimethyl ether, a propellant that can be used as a refrigerant. Warts are hard, knobby skin growths that are the result of a viral infection. Wart freezes "burn" away the dead skin cells on top of warts.

Skin Tags

The neck is a common location for skin tags.

Skin tags are soft, fleshy tissue connected to the body by a stalk, which is called a pedicle. Blood vessels inside the pedicle nourish the tag. Skin tags are covered by epidermis--an outer layer of skin.

Misidentification

A dermatologist can determine whether a growth is a skin tag.

Skin tags, although unsightly, are benign. However, they can resemble other skin conditions that should be seen by a dermatologist. Removing the wrong kind of growth can delay treatment.

Considerations

An infection can necessitate a visit to the doctor.

The ingredients in over-the-counter wart freezes can cause skin to blister, leading to infection. These same ingredients can cause skin to scar.

Dermatologists use liquid nitrogen to freeze warts and other skin growths. Their training lessens the likelihood of adverse reactions.

Nerves

Wart freeze can hurt skin.

Skin tags, like the rest of the skin, contain nerve cells. Using wart freeze on skin tags can hurt.

Bleeding

Skin tags contain blood vessels.

Improper removal of skin tags can cause bleeding. Occasionally, this is excessive.

Contraindications

Never use wart freeze around the eyes.

Skin tags often develop in areas where skin is already chafed. Wart freeze can irritate already sensitive skin. Some tags are on the eyelids, and wart freeze should never be used near the eyes.

References

• Patient UK: Family Doctor: Warts: Removal by Freezing
• Warts and Verrucas
• Dermanet NZ: Skin Tags