Interview with CEO of Claritag, Sam Josephson
By Carla Snuggs
Have you heard of Claritag? Claritag is one of only two FDA-cleared at-home skin tag removal devices, which utilizes the same cryogenic technology used by dermatologists. The device allows users to treat skin tags in less than 60 seconds from the comfort of their own home. We interviewed the CEO of Claritag, Sam Josephson to learn more about Claritag and at-home skin tag removal.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Sam, could you start by explaining to us what skin tags are and why people generally want to remove them?
Sam Josephson: Skin tags are typically small, skin-colored growths that may resemble a cluster of skin attached to the body by a thin stem. They’re often found in areas of the body where your skin rubs against itself: neck, breasts, back, armpit, or groin. Skin tags are most frequently found in aging individuals and may have a genetic link. They often appear after weight gain or pregnancy, but they can also occur at any age and affect anyone.
Skin tags are harmless, so it’s completely fine if someone chooses not to have them removed. But people generally want them gone for cosmetic reasons or if they cause discomfort due to friction with jewelry, clothing, or seat belts.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Can you briefly describe how Claritag works to remove skin tags, and is it different from other methods or products on the market?
Sam Josephson: Claritag utilizes our innovative and patented Squeeze & Freeze® technology to effectively remove skin tags. The device employs foam treatment pads infused with a liquid cooling gas. The treatment process with Claritag is straightforward and involves activating the device, applying it to freeze the skin tag for 20 seconds, removing it for 20 seconds, and then reactivating and applying it again for another 20 seconds. When you apply the device to the skin, it encapsulates and precisely freezes the skin tag, causing it to naturally fall off within 2 weeks. Most Claritag-treated skin tags will fall off within 10 days.
Claritag is one of only two devices cleared by the FDA for skin tag removal. Removal methods used by dermatologists in office, such as cryotherapy, electrocautery, or excision, often come with a hefty price tag. Claritag’s skin tag removal device not only allows you to remove skin tags from the comfort of your own home but also utilizes the same cryogenic technology used by dermatologists, at a fraction of the cost of a doctor's visit. Additionally, while other methods like over-the-counter freezing sprays or ligation bands exist, Claritag offers precision, targeting the skin tag directly and minimizing the risk of damaging surrounding tissue. Our device also only requires one treatment cycle per skin tag, whereas other methods may need multiple applications. The Claritag device is simple and convenient to use at home; there’s no need for medical assistance or complicated instructions.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Safety is always a concern with at-home treatments. What measures have been taken to ensure that Claritag is safe for users to operate?
Sam Josephson: As mentioned, Claritag is one of the only FDA-cleared devices for at-home skin tag removal. This means that our device has met the rigorous testing and user studies as part of the standards required by the FDA before clearance. FDA clearance is a gold standard in healthcare products and Claritag’s achievement in this regard sets us apart as a trustworthy and high-quality skincare solution.
Claritag has gone above and beyond to offer a golden standard device that is easy to use and does not cause unnecessary pain and discomfort. More importantly, our patented device comes with two important features designed to prevent skin burns and discoloration of the skin.
1. Temperature control: The Claritag inner canister, which holds the freezing liquid, contains a metered valve that releases a precisely measured dosage of cooling liquid during each activation. This regulates the temperature of our applicator heads, which come in direct contact with the skin, preventing any potential skin burns and avoiding discoloration. This is particularly crucial for individuals with very light-colored skin and those with skin pigmentation.
2. Precision: Our applicator heads are designed to exclusively squeeze the skin tag and are equipped with a safety barrier that separates the surrounding skin from the frozen foam pads.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Could you walk us through a step-by-step process of how someone would use Claritag to remove a skin tag?
Sam Josephson: Place the Claritag’s connected base on a stable, flat surface. Once you attach the Claritag device to the base, press down firmly on the device for a minimum of 3 seconds. This action will release the liquid cooling gas into the Claritag’s Squeeze & Freeze® tips, activating them for use.
Once the tips are activated, place the device over the skin tag, making sure the tip with the two claw-like ends is directly over it. Gently squeeze the thumb grips inward to ensure that the claws fully surround the skin tag. Hold this position for 20 seconds before releasing. After the treatment, the skin tag should have a frosty white appearance.
After this first pass, reattach the Claritag device to its base and set it on a flat surface. Press down firmly on the device for a minimum of 3 seconds to recharge the tips. This will again transfer the liquid cooling gas to the Squeeze & Freeze® tips, preparing them for the second round of use.
Once the Claritag is reactivated, position the device over the skin tag for a second time. Squeeze the thumb grips inward until the skin tag is completely encased by the device. Hold this squeeze for 20 seconds, then release. The treated skin tag should appear frosty white. The skin tag should fall off naturally within 2 weeks!
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: How long does it typically take to see results after using Claritag, and are multiple treatments required?
Sam Josephson: After using Claritag, the skin tag should fall off naturally within 7-14 days. Most fall off within 10 days. Throughout this period, new, healthy skin regenerates under the treated area. We recommend keeping the site protected after treatment. Claritag’s device is designed for the complete removal of skin tags in just one treatment cycle.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Are there any skin types or areas of the body where Claritag should not be used?
Sam Josephson: Claritag is universally compatible, meaning that our device is suitable for all skin types and colors. In regards to areas of the body, skin tags should only be treated if they are located in 1 of
5 locations: neck, chest, underarms, back, or groin. Do not use Claritag for skin tags located on other parts of the body (ie. eyelid).
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: What kind of testing and research went into the development of Claritag? Were dermatologists involved in the process?
Sam Josephson: Claritag was developed and tested by dermatologists to ensure optimal results. The expertise of Zecharia Lind, a seasoned dermatology expert from Catskill Dermatology, was key in the development of Claritag.
Once we established a baseline for the efficacy of the prototype of our device, we sent the device to an international pharma group for a formal evaluation. Their engineers evaluated and inspected all our components and conducted extensive testing where they formally confirmed the efficacy of our device. The group was also exceptionally pleased with the intended treatment process of Claritag, calling it “a novel and adaptable method for at-home over-the-counter treatment.”
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Have there been any clinical trials or studies conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of Claritag?
Sam Josephson: The Claritag device has undergone numerous rounds of user studies under the supervision and guidance of medical professionals. This is to ensure ease of use and effectiveness of the device.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Can you share any success stories or customer testimonials that stand out, relating to their experience with Claritag?
Sam Josephson: The Claritag device has received an outpouring of excellent feedback from satisfied customers. Our customers specifically share the excitement around the affordability and convenience of Claritag and have expressed how happy they are to finally have a product that is effective and readily available.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: For those concerned with skincare post-removal, does Claritag come with any aftercare advice or products?
Sam Josephson: Although the Claritag device does not come with specific aftercare products, we recommend keeping the site protected after treatment, as it may take up to two weeks for the skin tag to fall off.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: How does Claritag align with current trends in skincare and self-care? Claritag taps into a few key trends driving the current skincare and self-care landscape:
Empowerment and Convenience: Consumers increasingly seek DIY solutions that empower them to take charge of their well-being, and Claritag fits the bill perfectly. It offers a safe and effective at-home alternative to traditional in-office procedures, putting the power of skin tag removal in the hands of users.
Targeted and Personalized Care: The move towards personalized and targeted skincare routines resonates with Claritag's approach. The device's precise targeting minimizes impact on surrounding tissue, aligning with consumers' desire for treatments that address specific concerns without unnecessary intervention.
Skin Equity and Inclusive Products: Claritag contributes to a more inclusive skincare landscape, as the device’s features are universally compatible, meaning that it’s suitable for all skin types and colors.
Self-Confidence and Body Positivity: Ultimately, Claritag aligns with the modern self-confidence and body positivity movement. By providing a safe and effective way to address a common cosmetic concern, Claritag empowers individuals to feel comfortable and confident in their skin.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: What has been the feedback from the medical community regarding Claritag?
Sam Josephson: Skin tags are often left untreated due to the high cost of in-patient treatment and the fact that some insurance providers do not typically cover the necessary procedures. Dermatologists and doctors have repeatedly praised the efforts of Claritag in bringing an easy-to-use at-home remedy for skin tags.
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: As the skincare industry continues to evolve, are there any future developments or enhancements planned for Claritag?
DGI Group LLC, the creators of Claritag, have several other groundbreaking at-home skin care devices in the works.
Claritag CEO, Sam Josephson
Posh Lifestyle & Beauty Blog: Lastly, where can consumers purchase Claritag, and do you offer any customer satisfaction guarantees or returns policies?
Sam Josephson: Claritag is available on Amazon, Walmart, and claritag.com. We offer a 100% money-back guarantee.
Have you every had a skin tag removed? Leave a comment below?
