Skin tags are small, soft flaps of skin that often appear on the neck, underarms, groin or eyelids. They rarely cause harm, but can snag on clothing, jewellery or simply bother you on a cosmetic level.
In Singapore, there are many clinics that offer specialised skin tag treatment. For many people, one of the most preferred facilities is this one: https://apaxmedical.com/skin-tag-removal-surgery/.
Post treatment outlook is a major consideration which is why you may wonder; “will it leave a scar?” In response to this very common question, we created this guide to explain what causes skin tags, how clinics typically remove them, which methods carry the lowest risk of scarring and practical steps to support smooth healing. Keep reading!
Why do People get Skin Tags?
It is still not very clear why people get skin tags but it is largely believed that they form as a result of friction, genetics, and hormonal shifts. Some are also linked health factors.
You might have spotted skin tags them under your arms, around your neck, beneath your breasts or in your groin. As skin repeatedly rubs, it can trigger extra cell growth.
Over time, this can form a tiny stalk topped by a soft flap of tissue. Age may also increase your risks of getting skin tags because many people start to see skin tags after forty.
As you age, your skin thins and loses some strength. At the same time, if you carry extra weight, your skin creases deepen.
Those deeper folds brush more often, and that increases your chance of developing tags. Hormones may also speed up this process.
During pregnancy, for example, rising levels of growth factors and oestrogen make your cells divide more quickly. That can mean new tags that often shrink back once your hormone levels settle after childbirth.
Alongside friction and hormones, your genes may also influence your risks of developing skin tags. For example, if you have close family members who have skin tags, you are more likely to get them too.
In regard to health issues, people with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance tend to spot more tags. High insulin and blood sugar may encourage skin to bulge and form extra tissue.
In most cases, skin tags stay harmless as they don’t turn into anything serious. If they catch on clothing or jewellery, they can itch or bleed. In that case, your doctor can easily remove them.
Does Skin Tag Removal Leave Scars?
Any time skin is cut, frozen or burnt, a scar can form. So, it is understandable if the concern you have about skin tag removal in Singapore is scar formation.
The simplest answer is yes, skin tag removal may leave a scar. However, the likelihood and severity of the scar depend on several factors, including the removal method, size and location of the tag, and individual healing tendencies.
Modern techniques aim to keep marks nearly invisible. Cryotherapy for example, often leaves a light, temporary mark that fades over weeks. In darker skin, slight pigment changes may occur but usually settle over time.
With cauterisation, the burnt tissue forms a small dark crust. Once it falls off, you’re left with fresh skin underneath.
If you follow after-care advice like keeping it clean and moisturized, the fine line that forms can be barely noticeable. Over weeks, the new skin blends with its surroundings.
Excision may leave a very fine line at the base, similar to a small surgical scar. Skilled practitioners use fine sutures and precise cuts to minimise tension on the skin.
This approach encourages a thin, flat scar rather than a raised or wide mark. Ligation avoids open wounds altogether. Since the tag drops off on its own, the site heals like a minor bruise, often leaving no visible scar.
However, ligation suits only smaller tags on thinner skin. Factors like tag size, skin tone and location can affect healing speed. Areas that stretch like the underarms may form slightly thicker scars but with expert technique and good after-care, most marks fade to almost nothing. Here are some tips to minimise scarring after your skin tag removal in Singapore;
- Follow post-procedure care instructions: Your clinic will provide specific steps like cleaning the area gently with mild soap and water, applying any prescribed ointment and replacing dressings as directed. Keep the site moist to prevent scab cracking, which can deepen scars. Follow this routine until the wound fully closes.
- Avoid sun exposure: UV rays darken new skin and can make scars more noticeable. Cover the area with clothing or apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30+ once the wound heals. Preventing pigment changes will be key to helping your new skin blend in.
- Don’t pick or scratch: It can be tempting to remove scabs, but picking reopens the wound and ups infection risk. Let scabs fall off naturally to allow smooth skin formation. If itching bothers you, apply a thin layer of recommended cream.
- Use silicone gel or sheets: Medical-grade silicone creates a protective barrier that keeps the skin hydrated. It helps flatten and fade scars over several weeks. Apply gel or sheets daily as instructed for best results.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Protein, vitamin C and zinc support collagen formation and wound repair. Eat lean meats, citrus fruits, nuts and whole grains to provide these nutrients. Staying hydrated also helps with skin regeneration and reduces inflammation.
Closing Thoughts
Skin tag removal in Singapore rarely leaves obvious scars when done by skilled hands and followed by good after-care. You only need to choose the right removal method for you.
If you ever spot warning signs or worry about a tag’s appearance, please seek expert assessment. Proper treatment and simple scar-care steps could be all you need to enjoy smooth, clear skin without lasting reminders.
If you’re looking for a smooth, scar-free result, please book your skin tag removal at our Singapore clinic today. Trust our experienced team to offer safe, precise methods and personalised after-care plans to keep scarring to a minimum. To schedule your consultation, call or visit us at;
APAX Medical & Aesthetics Clinic (Bukit Panjang J10) – Acne & Acne Scars Clinic Singapore
1 Woodlands Rd, #02-11 Junction 10, Singapore 677899
