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Due to regulatory guidelines, we are unable to list specific brand names on our website and have used replacement terms instead. To find out what these terms refer to, please contact us directly.
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How to Safely Remove Skin Tags on Your Neck Without Causing Scars

By SL Aesthetic Clinic
  • Published Date:
Last Updated:
July 4, 2025
Safe Skin Tags Removal on Neck without Causing Scars

TL;DR 

  • Safe removal methods for skin tags on the neck include CO₂ laser, cryotherapy, cauterisation, or excision. They are done in a medical setting to minimise scarring and risk.
  • Avoid DIY remedies or creams — they can lead to pain, infection, or unsightly scarring, especially on delicate areas like the neck.

Table of Contents

Skin tags can be annoying. These tiny, soft growths can pop up on various parts of the body, but the neck seems to be one of their favourite hangouts. And while they’re harmless in most cases, they can be a source of discomfort or self-consciousness, which is entirely understandable.

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about these pesky little tags, why they appear, and how we can safely remove them.

What causes skin tags on the neck?

Skin tags are small overgrowths of normal skin and connective tissue that form due to repeated friction or minor trauma to the skin.

While anyone can develop skin tags, they are more likely to occur due to friction from clothing, jewellery, or skin folds. This is why you often find them on the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, and sometimes under the breasts.

Genetics can also play a role. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy, ageing, weight gain or obesity, and underlying metabolic conditions like insulin resistance, can all contribute to their formation.

Also Read: The Removal Of Skin Tags, Milia Seeds, Moles, And Lumps In Singapore

How do you distinguish between a skin tag and a wart?

FeatureSkin TagsWarts
CauseFriction, genetics, and metabolic factorsHuman papillomavirus (HPV)
AppearanceSoft, flesh-coloured or slightly darkerRough or grainy in texture
SizeUsually small (2-5mm), but can grow largerVaries—some remain as small raised bumps, while others may grow larger and form clusters
SurfaceSmooth or slightly wrinkledOften rough with small black dots (clotted blood vessels)
SensationPainless, unless irritatedSometimes painful
SpreadDo not spread to other areasCan spread to the surrounding skin

When in doubt, always let a professional take a look, especially if the growth changes in size, shape, or colour or becomes painful.

When should you see a doctor?

While most skin tags are benign, there are certain situations where it’s recommended to seek medical attention:

  • If you notice a sudden rapid growth or a significant increase in the number of skin tags, it’s worth having them checked. A sudden change can signal an underlying issue that needs attention.
  • Irregular borders or changes in colour are always red flags for any skin growth. Skin tags are typically uniform in shape and colour, so any deviation may require further assessment to rule out other skin conditions.
  • Bleeding or persistent irritation, especially if the skin tag frequently catches on clothing or jewellery, can lead to inflammation and possible infection. If you consistently experience discomfort, professional removal is advisable.
  • Lastly, significant discomfort or cosmetic concern is entirely valid. Many of my patients seek removal not because the tags are dangerous but because they feel self-conscious or physically uncomfortable. Your comfort and confidence matter.

A proper assessment allows us to rule out other skin conditions and discuss the best course of action for removal.

Treatment options to safely remove skin tags on neck

Here’s where it gets practical—let’s talk about the removal options. And yes, there are multiple effective ways we safely remove skin tags without leaving behind unsightly scars.

CO2 Laser (from $250)

The CO2 laser is an effective method for treating multiple small skin tags, particularly on delicate areas like the neck. Using precise beams of laser energy, we target the skin tag while minimising damage to the surrounding skin.

The laser vaporises the growth layer by layer, leaving a smooth surface behind. Healing is generally quick, with minimal downtime. Most patients experience mild redness or sensitivity for a few days after treatment, and any mild scabbing typically resolves within a few days.

Cauterisation

Cauterisation involves using a heated instrument (electrocautery) to burn off the skin tag. It’s fast, effective, and beneficial for small to medium-sized tags. The heat seals blood vessels instantly, reducing bleeding and lowering the risk of infection.

While some redness or a small scab may appear temporarily, proper aftercare ensures excellent healing with minimal scarring. This method is often done in-clinic with local anaesthetic for comfort.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy removes skin tags by applying extremely cold temperatures and using liquid nitrogen to freeze and eliminate excess tissue. The treated skin tag will darken, dry up, and usually fall off within a few days to weeks.

This method is most effective for small to medium-sized skin tags and is a quick, minimally uncomfortable procedure with minimal downtime.

Excision Surgery

In some cases where the skin tag is particularly large or cannot be addressed with non-invasive methods, excision may be considered. This involves carefully removing the growth under local anaesthetic.
However, for most skin tags, non-invasive treatments are sufficient, and excision is typically reserved for select situations where other options aren’t suitable.

Can I remove skin tags using creams?

We strongly advise against using skin tag removal creams you find online.

Many patients try a variety of home remedies—from tying off the skin tag with a string or dental floss (ligation) to applying creams, apple cider vinegar, or essential oils. While these approaches may seem harmless or even ‘natural,’ they can actually backfire badly.

Ligation can cause pain, bleeding, or improper healing if not done under sterile conditions. Acid-based creams may leave behind half-destroyed, inflamed tissue that’s prone to infection. Meanwhile, vinegar or oils can trigger chemical burns, irritation, and prolonged inflammation, especially on delicate neck skin.

I always tell my patients: imagine a dangling skin tag that’s half alive and half dead, surrounded by swollen, irritated skin. That’s what these methods can create. The risk of scarring, delayed healing, unnecessary inflammation, and infection is not worth it.

Safe, clean removal under medical supervision is always the better option for both cosmetic and safety reasons.

Contact us for safe, clean removal without scarring or guesswork.

Do skin tags on the neck mean diabetes?

Now, here’s an important point we often discuss during consultations.

While skin tags themselves are not dangerous, several studies have observed a higher incidence of skin tags in individuals with insulin resistance, diabetes, or obesity. However, this doesn’t automatically indicate diabetes.

However, if you’re noticing a sudden increase in skin tags, or if it’s accompanied by darkening of the skin folds (also known as acanthosis nigricans) or other diabetic symptoms, I typically recommend a comprehensive health check-up to rule out any underlying metabolic concerns.

That being said, many people develop skin tags without any systemic issues. They can simply be a result of friction, genetics, or natural skin changes.

Final thoughts: A little love for your skin

Skin tags may be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them if they bother you. Thankfully, modern treatments offer safe, effective, and minimally invasive ways to remove them without risking scars or complications from risky DIY methods.

As always, it’s best to let your doctor evaluate your skin and help you choose the method that best suits your situation, skin type, and comfort level.

If you’re concerned about skin tags or wondering whether they’re a sign of something more, feel free to book a consultation with us.

Your skin and peace of mind deserve proper attention.

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