Skin tags are a common problem for many people. These small, soft bumps are harmless, but they can affect appearance or cause discomfort.In recent years, skin tag removal pens have gradually gained popularity as a home care tool and have become a new choice for many people.But then the dilemma arises: Will this little device hurt a lot? Can it really remove stubborn skin tags completely?
How does a skin tag removal pen work?
Mainstream products on the market are essentially divided into several categories, with vastly different working principles and completely different user experiences:
- Laser type: Through high-energy laser beam to produce photothermal effect, directly make wart tissue vaporize and carbonize, and the accuracy is relatively high.
- Electrocautery type: It uses the heat generated by high-frequency current to cauterize warts, requiring the pen tip to directly contact the skin, and has a low operational threshold.
- Plasma type: It generates "low-temperature plasma energy" by exciting gas through a high-frequency electric field. This energy can be precisely applied to skin tag tissue, causing it to quickly vaporize and carbonize, while simultaneously coagulating tiny blood vessels, achieving a two-in-one "cutting + hemostasis".
- Cryotherapy: This type of tool mimics the principle of liquid nitrogen freezing in hospitals, causing skin tags to die and fall off due to low temperatures.
Will it hurt when using it?
Pain is the biggest concern for everyone, but there is no absolute pain or no pain. It is closely related to the type of product, individual tolerance, and the area where it is used.
- Laser type: A slight burning sensation. Because the laser acts on warts precisely, it has little damage to the surrounding skin, and the pain is concentrated on the wart itself. Most people describe it as an instant burning and stinging pain, which lasts no more than 1 second, is slightly stronger than a mosquito bite, but is completely bearable.
- Electrocautery: A double pain of needle pricks and burning; use with caution if you have sensitive skin. Because the pen tip comes into direct contact with the skin, there is a noticeable needle prick sensation upon application of electricity, followed by a continuous burning sensation. The pain is more intense than with laser treatment, especially in areas with dense nerves such as the fingers and joints. Treating a small wart usually takes only 2-3 seconds.
- Plasma type: Instantaneous tingling and slight stinging, lasting no more than 1 second, similar to the feeling of being pinched hard after being bitten by a mosquito. If the skin tag is located on the finger or joint, or is close to 1 cm in diameter, the pain will be slightly stronger, and there may be a burning sensation lasting 2-3 seconds.
- Frozen type: Low temperature will stimulate the skin to produce an icy sensation. After the temporary numbness caused by low temperature subsides, there may be a slight soreness.
Practical Tips to Reduce Pain
1. Use after cleaning: First clean the skin with alcohol to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Pre-anesthesia is allowed: If you are afraid of pain, you can apply local anesthetic cream.
3. Choose low gear: Start with the lowest intensity for the first use.
How would you rate the effect?
The effect of skin tag removal pens is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The size, depth, and type of the wart directly determine the final result. Blindly using them may result in wasting money.
These are situations worth trying; the results are 8 out of 10：
For superficial warts (such as small new growths on the neck) with a diameter of less than 5 mm, inconspicuous protrusion, and short growth time, laser, electrocautery, or plasma methods can all be used for precise removal. The removal rate of these warts in a single treatment can reach over 80%. The scabs will fall off 1-2 weeks after the procedure, and with proper care, scarring is generally not a problem.
These methods are not recommended; the effectiveness score is below 3：
l For warts larger than 1 cm in diameter and with deep roots (such as plantar warts on the soles of the feet): skin tag removal pens can only remove surface tissue and cannot eradicate deep lesions. On the contrary, they may stimulate the spread of the virus, leading to recurrence or infection.
l For Dense Warts (More Than 5 in Number):Household devices cannot be disinfected thoroughly, and continuous use is likely to cause cross-infection. It is recommended to go to the hospital first to check for HPV infection.
l For Special Areas Such as Around the Eyelids and Genitalia:The skin in these areas is thin and delicate. Improper energy control of the removal pen may lead to scarring or complications, so the procedure must be performed by a professional doctor.
No matter which type of skin tag removal tool is used, it can only remove the surface tissue of the warts and cannot eliminate the deeper tissues. The postoperative recurrence rate is approximately 10% - 20%. Especially for people with lower immunity, the recurrence probability is even higher. After the operation, it is necessary to continue applying antiviral ointment and supplement vitamins to enhance immunity, which can effectively reduce the risk of recurrence.
FAQ
1.How long can see the effect?
A: Usually after a few days the skin tag color becomes dark, starts to shrink, and falls off within 1-2 weeks.
2.Will it leave a scar?
A: With proper operation, the risk is relatively low. However, pigmentation (temporary darkening of the color) may occur, and it usually fades within a few months.
3.Can everyone use it?
A: pregnant women, heart patients, have scar constitution or skin infections is not recommended. Diabetic patients must consult a doctor before use.
4.How does it compare to clinic treatment?
A: Clinic laser or cryotherapy is faster and more professional, suitable for multiple or larger lesions. Removal pens are better suited for fewer, smaller, and more defined skin tags, and are a more economical and convenient alternative.
5.Are there any important points to note?
1. Be sure to disinfect before use. Wipe the pen tip and the skin around the skin tag thoroughly with alcohol or normal saline to avoid infection. Don’t think it’s a hassle—this prevents inflammation.
2. Avoid sensitive areas such as the eye area within 3 centimeters, and the private parts should not be used. The skin in these areas is very thin and is prone to burning normal tissues.
3. Do not get the area wet, apply cosmetics, or pick at it with your hands before the skin tag falls off.
Conclusion
You are looking for a relatively painless and home-based solution. The wart removal pen is a good choice. It really works, the pain is mild and short for most people. But remember it is only a beauty tool, not a medical device. If you have any doubts, go to see a dermatologist first, safety is always the first. Be patient with the results as skin repair takes time. Give it trust and you will probably be satisfied with the outcome in the mirror.
