Skin tags and moles are common skin growths that can change in color, size, or texture over time. While most are harmless, some may cause irritation or signal underlying issues that must be evaluated. At Dermatology Associates Skin & Cancer Center, our dermatology team, led by fellowship-trained dermatologist Dr. Christopher Wolfe, provides expert evaluation and care.
Evaluate and Remove Bothersome Growths
Skin tags and moles are among the most common benign skin growths. Though usually harmless, changes in their appearance or irritation may require professional evaluation. Understanding their differences helps determine whether treatment is recommended.
Skin Tags
Skin tags are small, soft growths that typically appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, or groin. They are composed of collagen fibers, blood vessels, and skin. While painless and noncancerous, they can become irritated by jewelry, clothing, or shaving. They can usually be removed quickly using in-office methods like cryotherapy.
Moles
Moles, or nevi, form when pigment-producing cells called melanocytes grow in clusters. They can vary in color from tan to dark brown and may be flat or raised. Most moles remain stable throughout life, but any changes in color, border, size, or sensation should be examined by a dermatologist, as these may indicate early signs of melanoma or other skin conditions.
Professional Skin Tags & Moles Diagnosis & Treatment
During your visit, your dermatologist will begin with a thorough visual examination of your skin, carefully assessing the size, shape, and color of any moles or skin tags. Dermoscopic imaging may be used to magnify surface structures and detect subtle irregularities that aren’t visible to the naked eye. If there is any concern about potential malignancy, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for microscopic evaluation to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Your treatment plan will depend on the findings and your personal goals. Benign skin tags can be gently removed through cryotherapy (freezing), electrocautery (heat-based removal), or a minor excision. Suspicious or bothersome moles may also be removed for both medical and cosmetic reasons. Each procedure is performed with precision to minimize scarring.
When is a Professional Evaluation Required?
Moles and skin tags are usually harmless, but changes in their appearance or sensation can indicate a more serious concern. A professional evaluation ensures that any abnormal growths are examined early, helping detect skin cancer before it progresses. Regular monitoring is especially important if you have many moles or a family history of melanoma.
You should schedule a dermatology visit if you notice any of the following:
- Rapid change in size, shape, or color of a mole
- Irregular or poorly defined borders
- Multiple colors or uneven pigmentation within a mole
- Itching, tenderness, bleeding, or crusting of a growth
- A new mole or spot appearing after age 30
- A skin tag that becomes painful, inflamed, or infected
- Any growth that looks distinctly different from surrounding moles (“ugly duckling” sign)
- Concern about cosmetic appearance or frequent irritation from clothing or jewelry
Schedule Your Consultation With One of Our Dermatology Providers
Dermatology Associates Skin & Cancer Center is a trusted, community-focused practice led by Dr. Christopher Wolfe, a board-certified and fellowship-trained dermatologist. For over 50 years, our team has provided compassionate, detail-oriented care for patients across Bay County. Whether you’re concerned about changing moles or bothersome skin tags, we offer gentle, precise treatments. Schedule your consultation today to have your skin tags and moles evaluated and treated by our experienced dermatology team.
