Moles and skin tags can be a source of cosmetic concern, physical irritation, or medical uncertainty. If you’ve ever wondered whether a mole or skin tag needs attention or how to safely remove one, understanding the difference between the two can help guide your next step.
At Peach Dermatology, we provide expert mole and skin tag removal in Suwanee, Georgia, and proudly serve the neighboring communities of Duluth, Sugar Hill, Buford, and Johns Creek. Led by Dr. Waqas R. Shaikh, MD, MPH, our board-certified team offers compassionate, patient-focused care using the latest surgical and cosmetic dermatology techniques. Ready to find a solution that fits your needs? Call us or book an appointment online.
Keep on reading to know the key differences between these common skin growths and explore your best treatment options.
How to Differentiate Moles and Skin Tags
Although both moles and skin tags form on the skin's surface, their characteristics and causes differ significantly:
Moles
Moles, or melanocytic nevi, are dark or brown spots composed of clustered skin cells called melanocytes. They can vary in size, shape, and color. A mole can be flat, raised, or even hairy. Most moles form during childhood or adolescence due to genetic and hormonal changes.
Though generally benign, some moles can appear darker or irregular and may signal skin cancer. Changes in color, size, or shape, or the appearance of an entirely new mole, warrant evaluation by a dermatologist.
Skin Tags
Skin tags (acrochordons) are small, flesh-colored growths that commonly appear in areas where skin rubs together, such as the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and under the breasts. These growths often have a narrow stem or thin stalk, attaching them to the skin’s surface.
Skin tags form due to friction, obesity, or hormonal changes, and while harmless, they can become irritated when rubbed by clothing or jewelry.
Mole vs. Skin Tag: Key Differences
The main distinction lies in what they’re made of and how they form.
- Moles are pigmented clusters of skin cells that may pose a cancer risk if they change over time.
- Skin tags are composed of loose collagen and skin cells and are non-cancerous, but can cause discomfort due to their location or size.
If you're uncertain about a growth or notice any changes, it’s always best to consult a board-certified dermatologist. At Peach Dermatology, we offer expert evaluation to help you clearly understand your skin and the best treatment path.
When Is Removal Necessary for Health Reasons?
While both moles and skin tags are often benign, there are situations where removal is recommended for health and comfort:
When to Remove Moles
Mole removal becomes a priority under the following circumstances:
- Suspicious Changes: If a mole changes in size, shape, color, or texture, or bleeds unexpectedly, these could be signs of melanoma or another type of skin cancer. Early detection and removing moles that require treatment are critical in preventing cancerous cells from spreading.
- Cosmetic Concerns: Large or prominent moles, especially on the face, neck, or body, may be removed for aesthetic reasons.
- Discomfort or Irritation: Moles that are constantly irritated by clothing or bleed due to friction can be removed to enhance comfort.
When to Remove Skin Tags
Removing skin tags is generally considered when they:
- Cause Irritation: Skin tags that rub against clothing, skin folds, or jewelry can result in discomfort, redness, or bleeding.
- Affect Appearance: Though harmless, some people find skin tags bothersome and wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.
- Are in Sensitive Areas: Skin tags on the eyelids, groin, or other delicate locations may become problematic and need removal.
At Peach Dermatology, we always begin with a thorough evaluation by Dr. Shaikh, a board-certified dermatologist with extensive training in medical and cosmetic dermatology.
Treatment Options for Mole and Skin Tag Removal
The right procedure depends on the size, location, and type of skin growth. At Peach Dermatology, we provide a range of in-office removal options that are fast, precise, and performed under local anesthesia.
Mole Removal
- Surgical Shave Excision: Ideal for raised moles above the skin’s surface. The top layers are removed using a sterile scalpel. No stitches are needed.
- Surgical Excision: Used when deeper tissue removal is necessary. The entire mole and a margin of surrounding skin are removed and the area is closed with stitches.
- Biopsy: If there’s any concern about atypical cells or potential cancer, we may send the mole for pathology testing after removal.
Skin Tag Removal
- Snip Removal: Skin tags are snipped at the base using sterile surgical scissors, typically with no stitches required.
- Cryotherapy: Super cold liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze off the skin tag. The growth typically falls off after a few days.
- Electrosurgery: A small electric current burns away the skin tag. This is ideal for certain skin types and locations.
These minimally invasive procedures are safe for most skin tones and are performed with attention to minimising scarring and maintaining skin health.
What to Expect After Removal
Recovery after mole or skin tag removal is typically straightforward. Our team provides clear instructions to help you heal comfortably.
- Mild redness, swelling, or scabbing is common and fades within a few days.
- Keep the area clean and dry; apply topical antibiotic ointment as directed.
- Avoid direct sun exposure on the healing site to prevent pigmentation changes.
- Watch for infection (redness, pus, or increasing pain) and contact our office with any concerns.
- Attend any scheduled follow-up visits for suture removal or pathology results if needed.
Healing times may vary slightly based on the removal method and your skin type, but most patients resume normal activities the same day.
Why Choose Peach Dermatology?
At Peach Dermatology, we offer expert evaluation and removal of both moles and skin tags in a calm, clinical setting. Located in Suwanee, GA, our office also proudly serves nearby communities including Duluth, Sugar Hill, Buford, and Johns Creek.
Led by Dr. Waqas R. Shaikh, MD, MPH, our board-certified dermatology team provides compassionate, patient-centered care backed by advanced training in surgical and cosmetic dermatology.
- Patient-centered approach: Care plans are tailored to your skin type, health needs, and cosmetic goals.
- Surgical expertise: We offer trusted experience in mole and skin tag removal, along with advanced skin cancer screening.
- Full-service care under one roof: From evaluation to aftercare, everything is managed in one convenient location.
- Trusted by the community: Proudly serving Suwanee, Duluth, Sugar Hill, Buford, and Johns Creek with a reputation for clinical excellence.
Whether you're looking to remove a skin tag for comfort or evaluate a mole for peace of mind, our team is here to guide you through every step with clarity and care.
Clear, Confident Skin Starts with Trusted Care
Knowing the difference between a mole and a skin tag—and choosing the right removal method—can support both your skin health and your confidence. Whether for comfort, appearance, or peace of mind, Peach Dermatology is here to help.
Call Peach Dermatology at 770-676-2200 or schedule your appointment online to consult with Dr. Shaikh about mole or skin tag removal. Your skin deserves expert attention—and we’re here to provide it.
