Skin tags & moles: causes, differences & treatment options

Learn about skin tags and moles, when they may need attention, and your options for safe, personalised removal

Considering skin tag or mole removal?

Understand your skin tags and moles and explore personalised removal options

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Facial skin tag assessment and treatment
What are skin tags and moles?

Skin tags are small, soft growths that usually appear on the skin’s surface. They are often flesh-coloured and may hang slightly from the skin. They commonly develop in areas where skin rubs together, such as the neck, underarms, groin and eyelids.

Moles are common skin growths that can be flat or raised and are usually brown, black or similar in colour to the surrounding skin. They can develop anywhere on the body and may be present from birth or appear over time.

Raised mole on shoulder before removal
What can causes skin tags and moles?

The exact cause of skin tags is not always clear, but friction, genetics, age and hormonal changes may play a role. Moles develop when pigment-producing cells grow in clusters, with genetics and sun exposure influencing their development. Most skin tags and moles are harmless, but changes in a mole should always be assessed appropriately.

How can I tell a skin tag from a mole?

Skin tags are usually soft, smooth and flesh-coloured and often have a small stalk or hang from the skin. 

Moles are generally more pigmented and can be either flat or raised.

Although they can look quite different, not every skin growth is easy to identify by appearance alone. If you are unsure what a growth is, it is important to have it assessed before considering cosmetic removal.

Skin tag and mole removal in Melbourne
When should I have a skin tag or mole checked?

Skin tags can often be removed with a simple cosmetic procedure. Moles are different and should be medically assessed before considering removal to make sure cosmetic treatment is appropriate.

If a mole is new or changing in size, shape or colour, or shows other unusual features, it should be checked by a medical practitioner before removal.

If the lesion is suitable for cosmetic removal, we can then discuss the treatment options and what you can expect from the process.

What is the best way to remove skin tags and moles?

The right treatment depends on the type, size, location and appearance of the lesion. Suitable skin tags and some benign lesions can be removed with a cosmetic procedure, while moles require more careful assessment before removal.

At Medix, we assess the area first to determine whether cosmetic removal is appropriate. If a mole is new, changing in size, shape or colour, bleeding or otherwise unusual, it should be checked by a medical practitioner before removal.

For suitable lesions, we can discuss the available removal options and what to expect from treatment. 

Not sure if your skin tag or mole is suitable for removal?

Book a consultation with Elly to have the area assessed and discuss your options.

Skin Tag & Mole Removal Price List

Plasma Pen

Single sessions

Up to 2 Spots

$150

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"Highly recommend for skin tag removal." - Chris W.
Frequently asked questions

Skin tags are usually harmless and do not generally require treatment. They may be removed if they are bothersome, become irritated or you are concerned about their appearance. instantly fall off.

Yes. Skin tags can often be removed for cosmetic reasons, particularly if they affect your confidence or catch on clothing or jewellery.

A mole should be assessed if it is new or changes in size, shape or colour, or if it becomes itchy, crusted or starts bleeding. If you notice a concerning change, see a medical practitioner for assessment.

It is best to avoid cutting, burning or tying off skin tags yourself, as this can cause bleeding, infection or scarring. Professional assessment and removal provide a safer approach.

A treated skin tag or mole generally does not return in the same spot, although new skin tags or moles can develop elsewhere.

Skin tags are common and can develop for several reasons. They often appear in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, underarms, groin and eyelids. Some people are simply more prone to developing them, and new skin tags can appear over time.

Treatment time varies depending on the number, size and location of the skin tags being treated. Small, straightforward skin tags can usually be treated relatively quickly. During your consultation, we can assess the area and give you a clearer idea of what to expect.

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