First published: 2024-11-25 / Last reviewed: 2026-05-28
This is a guide to CO2 laser for moles and seborrheic keratosis compiled by Dr. Choi Byeong-geun of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk (3 minutes walk from Konkuk Univ. Station Exit 1).
Skin tags are soft fibroepithelial polyps ranging in size from 1mm to several centimeters. As they are benign tumors, I didn't pay much attention to them at first, but as they started to increase one by one, the aesthetic stress became significant. Even though they are similar in skin color, their raised structure makes them difficult to express smoothly with makeup, so I looked into removal methods.
Skin tags can appear in various areas such as the neck, armpits, eyelids, and groin. The exact cause has not been revealed in detail. However, they may appear more frequently in the following cases:
- During pregnancy, or if you have diabetes or obesity
- Middle-aged or older
- A tendency to increase in surrounding areas once they appear
As the cause is not clear, there were virtually no detailed methods for self-prevention.
Different in Nature from Acne
Although both are skin troubles, skin tags and acne differ in nature and cause.
| Category | Skin Tags | Acne |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Collagen and epidermal cell proliferation (benign tumor) | Caused by accumulated sebum |
| Structure | Protruding tissue with nerves and blood vessels | Inflammation centered on pores |
| Self-care | Not recommended | Relatively common |
Skin tags are tissues with nerves and blood vessels, so picking at them with your hands can leave scars or increase the risk of infection.
Reasons Why They Are Difficult to Conceal with Makeup
Skin tags are three-dimensional, so there was a limit to concealing them imperceptibly with cosmetics. If they appeared in areas with a lot of movement, makeup would easily rub off, requiring repeated touch-ups, and applying too much concealer and powder sometimes caused further irritation.
If you are unsure whether it's a skin tag or another skin condition, inquire first via chat consultation.
Removal Methods Vary by Size
Removal methods varied depending on the size. Small ones can be removed with a carbon dioxide laser or cut with small scissors, while larger ones can be cut with an electric scalpel heated by high-frequency current. There is also a possibility that picking them with tweezers or irritating them incorrectly could make them larger, so it was important to handle them in a hygienic environment.
Importance of Recurrence Possibility and Differentiation
Once removed, they may not reappear, but there is a possibility of recurrence, so it is advisable to remove them using the correct method. It was also necessary to systematically differentiate them from other skin conditions that resemble skin tags. I had the experience of applying over-the-counter products based on self-diagnosis, but they did not improve, so I regretted not getting them checked earlier.
If you start to see skin tags, check with a chat consultation before handling them with your hands. If you are also concerned about moles or seborrheic keratosis, you can also consider CO2 laser for moles and seborrheic keratosis or Agnes sebaceous gland destruction.
Authored by: Dr. Choi Byeong-geun (Chief Director of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk / Member of the Korean Society for Laser Dermatology and Hair, Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Medicine, Korean Filler Society, etc.) Last reviewed: 2026-05-28
This article is for general information on procedures and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. The suitability and results of procedures may vary by individual.