Warts : What they are and how to treat them

All you need to know about warts and methods of treatment!

Skin Tags

What are skin tags? Skin tags are benign , small, soft growths that resemble moles and appear on various parts of the body. Their color varies, although they are most often the same as that of the skin . They usually appear in clusters, close to one another, and their size ranges from 1-5 millimeters . Skin tags are manifestations of the body's infection by certain genotypes of the HPV (Human Papillomavirus).

Skin tags usually appear after the age of 25-30 , but sometimes at younger ages as well.

Key areas of appearance Skin tags most often appear in areas where heat , moisture , and friction coexist, conditions that promote their development. Face (eyelids) Neck Armpits Chest Genitals Thighs

Symptoms of skin tags Skin tags are generally asymptomatic , but if their size increases significantly or if they multiply , they can cause itching and a burning sensation.

Sometimes, skin tags can become injured and bleed, and there is a possibility of inflammation developing in the affected area, presenting with swelling and pain .

If you have skin tags on your neck, avoid wearing jewelry as it can injure them, potentially leading to inflammation !

Categories of Skin Tags Verrucous Skin Tags They appear on the body and face and have an uneven , not smooth, surface. They resemble warts but are caused by different HPV genotypes and are less contagious than warts. Genital Skin Tags An examination by a Dermatologist - Venereologist is essential for proper diagnosis, as they may be condylomata (genital warts) and not true skin tags. Condylomata are a sexually transmitted disease and are highly contagious , therefore requiring immediate treatment! Diagnosis is made with an HPV - DNA test . HPV - Condylomata (Genital Warts) Vaginal Skin Tags They are located on the labia and the vagina . In this case also, an examination by a specialized Dermatologist - Venereologist is necessary for the differential diagnosis from condylomata . A colposcopy , a sample for biopsy, and an HPV-DNA test may be needed, and a Pap Test is also recommended. Pap Test Anal Skin Tags They usually appear around the mucous membrane of the anus as soft growths . Often people confuse them with hemorrhoids . They require immediate treatment, as due to their location they are vulnerable to injuries and infections . In this case, a differential diagnosis from condylomata must also be made, via the HPV - DNA test, and an Anal Pap Test is also recommended. Anal Pap Test Oral Skin Tags They resemble small lumps , which are usually pointed. They appear mainly on the edges of the lips but also on their inner surface , on the tongue , or on the mucous membranes . They can become quite painful when injured during chewing and eating, so their treatment is considered necessary.

Skin tags in the vagina and anus must be treated immediately , as they can cause pain , bleeding , and inflammation .

Transmission Warts are not easily transmitted from person to person, but they can spread on the same individual when there is an injury or after intense friction in the area. Warts are not associated with an increased risk of skin cancer , as they appear to be caused by strains of HPV 6 & 11 and other low-risk strains.

Diagnosis & Treatment of Warts The correct clinical diagnosis of warts is made by a specialized Dermatologist-Venereologist. Their treatment is imperative for both medical and aesthetic reasons. The methods of wart treatment are: CO2 Laser - The most modern and effective treatment.

The cauterization of warts with the CO2 ablation laser is the most modern and effective method for the complete elimination of lesions. The lesion is treated with millimeter precision, without affecting the surrounding skin. Pain-free and bloodless method Does not leave scars or marks Minimal recovery time

Papilloma Removal: Before & After

Preventing the spread of papillomas Avoid wearing jewelry , chains , and necklaces around the neck Immediate treatment of papillomas upon detection. Avoid using a razor in the affected area

Can skin tags cause skin cancer?

Skin tags do not turn into malignant tumors and are not associated with any form of cancer . However, they should be removed , both to prevent injury that could lead to infection , and for aesthetic reasons.

Why is CO2 laser vaporization of skin tags the ideal treatment method?

The use of CO2 laser is painless , bloodless , leaves no marks or scars , and is performed with precision , only on the lesion without affecting the surrounding skin. Furthermore, even just 1 session with a CO2 laser can be enough for the complete elimination of skin tags, and it can also be applied to rather large skin tags, such as fibromas.

Are there complications after using the CO2 Laser?

No serious complications exist , though a slight burning sensation might appear in the treated area. CO2 Laser vaporization is associated with the lowest risk of recurrence compared to other methods. It is an easy , fast , and painless method for treating skin tags that offers excellent results .