SKIN CONCERN
Warts & Skin Tags
Common growths. Different causes. Thoughtful treatment starts with knowing what they are.
Warts and skin tags are both common, but they develop for very different reasons. Warts are caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), while skin tags are benign growths that often form in areas of friction.
Recommended Treatments
Treatment begins with assessing the growth and determining whether it is appropriate for treatment at Woodland.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR SKIN
What are warts and skin tags?
Warts are common, non-cancerous skin growths caused by certain types of HPV. They can be rough, flat, raised or clustered and may develop on many areas of the body. Warts are contagious and can spread to other areas of the skin or to other people.
Skin tags, also called acrochordons, are soft, benign growths of skin tissue. They are often attached to the skin by a small stalk and commonly appear on the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin or other areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
Why do they develop?
Warts and skin tags develop for different reasons. Certain exposures, skin conditions and individual factors can make each more likely to occur.
HPV Exposure
Warts develop when wart-causing types of HPV infect the skin.
Breaks in the Skin
Cuts, scrapes, shaving and tiny skin injuries can provide an entry point for wart-causing HPV.
Friction & Skin Folds
Skin tags commonly develop where skin repeatedly rubs against skin, clothing or jewelry.
Hormonal & Metabolic Factors
Skin tags are more common during pregnancy and in people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
Individual Susceptibility
Some people are simply more prone to developing warts or skin tags, and family history can increase the likelihood of skin tags.
YOUR TREATMENT JOURNEY
What to expect
Starting treatment
We assess the growth first and make sure it appears appropriate for cosmetic treatment before proceeding.
As treatment progresses
The treated area may become red or darker and may develop a small crust as it heals. Avoid picking or disturbing the area and follow the aftercare provided.
Longer term
Small skin tags may respond after one treatment, while warts can be more persistent and may require additional sessions. Warts can also recur because they are caused by HPV.
