Skin Tag Removal Aftercare

Skin Tag Removal Aftercare Instructions

Thank you for choosing The Doctors Laser Clinic for your skin tag removal. Following these aftercare instructions carefully will help ensure proper healing and minimise the risk of complications. Please remember that everyone heals differently, so if you have any specific concerns, please contact us.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

• Bleeding: Some minor bleeding is normal immediately after the procedure. We will apply a sterile bandage or dressing to control this and protect the area.
• Redness and Swelling: Redness and slight swelling around the treated area are also common. These are natural responses to the procedure.
• Keep it Clean & Dry: Keep the area clean and dry. Change the dressing as instructed by your practitioner.
• Gentle Care: Avoid activities that could stress the treated area (e.g., rigorous exercise, heavy lifting) for the first 24-48 hours.

Wound Care

• Cleansing: Gently clean the area with mild soap and water twice a day, unless otherwise instructed. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
• Avoid Irritants: Do not use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or antibacterial soaps, as these can slow healing.
• Ointment Application: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (e.g., Vaseline) or an antibiotic ointment as recommended by your practitioner. This helps prevent infection.
• Bandaging: Cover the area with a non-stick bandage or sterile dressing. Change the bandage daily, or more frequently if it becomes soiled.

What to Avoid

• Picking or Scratching: Do not pick at any scabs that form. A scab will usually form within 3-4 days. Once formed, leave it open and try to keep it for as long as possible. Allow scabs to fall off naturally to prevent scarring. No picking.
• Irritating Clothing/Jewellery: Avoid wearing clothing or jewellery that rubs or irritates the wound. Cover the area with a bandage if necessary.
• Sun Exposure: Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area. If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to the area (once healed enough to apply).
• Harsh Products: Avoid using any harsh products, including those containing alcohol, peroxide, or iodine, around the treated area.

Managing Discomfort

• Cold Compresses: Apply cold compresses (wrapped in a clean cloth) to the area for short durations within the first day to manage redness or swelling.
• Pain Relief: If you experience any tenderness, paracetamol is usually sufficient for pain relief. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Potential Side Effects & When to Seek Medical Advice

• Common Side Effects: Minor bleeding, redness, swelling, and slight tenderness are common and usually subside within a few days. 
• Rare Complications: Although rare, potential complications include infection, scarring, excessive bleeding, or significant swelling.

Contact Us Immediately If:

• You experience increased pain or swelling.
• You notice pus or any signs of infection.
• The wound splits open or bleeds excessively.
• You develop a fever (over 38°C or 100°F).
• Any stitches or staples come out on their own (if applicable).

Additional Reminders

By following these guidelines, you will help ensure proper healing and minimise the risk of complications after your skin tag removal. Thank you for choosing The Doctors Laser Clinic. We’re here to help if you need anything!