Everything You Need to Know About Removing Skin Tags at Home

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Skin tags is a bothersome skin irritation.  Not to mention it can be very annoying, especially when they rub against clothing or jewelry. If you’re removing skin tags at home, there are several options to consider. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various home remedies, professional removal techniques, and aftercare tips to help you effectively and safely remove skin tags.

1. Understanding Skin Tags

Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are benign growths that often appear in areas where the skin folds or rubs against itself. They are soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker, and usually small in size. While skin tags are generally harmless, they can be a source of discomfort.  In addition, for cosmetic reasons people like to have them removed.

Skin tags are more common in older adults, people who are overweight, and individuals with certain medical conditions such as diabetes. They often occur in areas such as the neck, armpits, eyelids, groin, and under the breasts. Skin tags are formed by clusters of collagen and a blood vessel that is trapped within thicker areas of the skin.

2. Home Remedies for Removal of Skin Tags

If you prefer to try natural remedies before seeking professional help, several home remedies may help in removing skin tags. It’s important to note that while these remedies are generally safe, they may take longer to produce results compared to professional removal methods.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree essential oil is known for its antiviral and anti-fungal properties, which may help in drying out and shrinking skin tags. To use tea tree oil for skin tag removal, follow these steps:

1. Clean the area around the skin tag with mild soap and water.
2. Apply a few drops of tea tree oil to a cotton swab or ball.
3. Gently dab the oil onto the surface of the skin tag and surrounding area.
4. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight.
5. Repeat this process daily until the skin tag falls off.
6. If this is too painful or uncomfortable, mix the tea tree essential oil with a carrier oil, such as joba oil or coconut oil.  You can also use drops of oregano oil.
7. Repeat from step 3

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Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for various skin conditions, including skin tag removal. The acidity of the vinegar helps to dry out the skin tag, causing it to eventually fall off. Here’s how to use apple cider vinegar for skin tag removal:

1. Clean the area around the skin tag with mild soap and water.
2. Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar.
3. Apply the soaked cotton swab to the skin tag and secure it with a bandage or tape.
4. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
5. Rinse the area with water and pat dry.
6. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for several weeks until the skin tag disappears.

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Lemon Juice

Similar to apple cider vinegar, lemon juice is often mentioned in home remedies for various skin conditions, including skin tags. The idea is that the citric acid in lemon juice might dry out and erode the skin tag over time. If you wish to try lemon juice for skin tag removal, here’s how you might do it:

1. Clean the area around the skin tag with mild soap and water. Dry it thoroughly.
2. Soak a cotton ball or a Q-tip in fresh lemon juice.
3. Apply the lemon juice to the skin tag, ensuring you don’t irritate the surrounding skin.
4. Allow it to dry naturally.
5. This can be repeated 2-3 times a day.
6. ​Continue the application for several weeks. Some individuals claim they notice the skin tag drying up and eventually falling off after regular application, but results can vary.
7. Precautions: Lemon juice is acidic, so it might irritate the skin. If you notice any redness, burning, or irritation, discontinue its use. Avoid exposure to sunlight right after applying lemon juice, as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and may lead to sunburn.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help in reducing the appearance of skin tags. To use castor oil for skin tag removal, follow these steps:

1. Clean the area around the surface of the skin tag with mild soap and water.
2. Apply a small amount of castor oil directly to the skin tag.
3. Gently massage the oil into the skin tag for a few minutes.
4. Cover the area with a clean bandage or cotton pad.
5. Leave it on overnight.
6. Repeat this process daily until the skin tag falls off.

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Garlic

Garlic has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help in drying out and shrinking skin tags. To use garlic for skin tag removal, follow these steps:

1. Crush a garlic clove to extract its juice.
2. Clean the area around the skin tag with mild soap and water.
3. Apply a small amount of garlic juice directly to the skin tag.
4. Cover the area with a clean bandage or cotton pad.
5. Leave it on for 1-2 hours.
6. Rinse the area with water and pat dry.
7. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for several weeks until the skin tag disappears.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E oil is known for its skin-nourishing properties and may aid in reducing the appearance of skin tags. To use vitamin E oil for skin tag removal, follow these steps:

1. Clean the area around the skin tag with mild soap and water.
2. Pierce a vitamin E capsule and extract the oil.
3. Apply a small amount of vitamin E oil directly to the affected area
4. Gently massage the oil into the skin tag for a few minutes.
5. Leave it on for a few hours or overnight.
6. Repeat this process daily until the skin tag falls off.

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Banana Peal

The enzymes and nutrients in the banana peel have been known to help break down the skin tag over time.

If you’re interested in trying this method, follow these steps:

1. Before applying any treatment, clean the area around the skin tag with mild soap and water.
2. Cut a small piece of banana peel, slightly larger than the size of the skin tag.
3. Place the inside part of the banana peel (the white part) against the skin tag. You can secure it in place with a bandage or medical tape.
4. It’s recommended to leave the banana peel on the skin tag overnight. If you’re doing this during the day, leave it on for as long as possible.
5. Replace the banana peel daily and keep the area clean. Over time, you may notice the skin tag becoming discolored or drying out.
6. You might need to continue this treatment for several weeks before seeing results, if any. Some people report their skin tags drying up and falling off, while others see no change.

​Home Skin Tag Freezing Kit

Skin tag freezing kits, often known as cryotherapy kits, are available over-the-counter at many drugstores and online retailers. These kits use compounds, typically liquid nitrogen or a similar substance, to freeze and subsequently cause skin tags to fall off. Here’s how to use a home skin tag freezing kit:

1. Always begin by reading the product’s instructions. Different kits might have slightly varying directions.
2. Clean the skin around the affected area using mild soap and water. Pat dry. You might want to apply a protective barrier (like petroleum jelly) around the skin tag to protect the surrounding skin, although this isn’t always necessary.
3. Many kits come with an applicator stick or similar tool. Activate the freezing agent as per the kit’s instructions.
4. Apply the freezing agent to the skin tag. The skin tag will typically turn white due to the freezing.
5. You might notice some minor irritation, redness, or discomfort. This is generally normal.
6. The skin tag should darken and fall off within 7-10 days, although this can vary.
7. Avoid using freezing kits on sensitive areas, like near the eyes.
8. Do not use the kit on anything other than a skin tag without consulting a dermatologist, as it’s important to ensure that the growth is benign.

Wart Remover or Salicylic acid – We Do Not Recommend

While salicylic acid is an effective treatment for warts, it’s not specifically formulated for removing skin tags. Here are some reasons why:

1. Warts and skin tags are distinct types of skin growths. Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are considered infectious growths. In contrast, skin tags (acrochordons) are benign, non-infectious growths often resulting from skin friction. The mechanism by which salicylic acid helps remove warts does not necessarily apply to skin tags.
2. Salicylic acid works by breaking down skin cells, which can lead to irritation. When applied to skin tags, especially without precise application, the surrounding skin might get irritated or damaged.
3. There’s no scientific evidence to support salicylic acid’s effectiveness in removing skin tags.
4. Using salicylic acid on skin tags can sometimes lead to unintended scarring or discoloration, especially if the skin tag becomes inflamed or infected from the treatment.

Always keep in mind that home remedies may not work for everyone, and the results can vary. If the skin tag is bothering you or if you’re unsure about its nature, it’s essential to see a dermatologist or medical professional to get it checked and possibly removed safely.

3. Medical Treatment

While home remedies can be effective for some individuals, it’s important to consult a dermatologist for professional skin tag removal, especially if the skin tag is large, bothersome, or located in sensitive areas. Dermatologists have various methods for removing skin tags, including:

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves freezing the skin tag using liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold temperature destroys the cells within the skin tag, causing it to eventually fall off. This procedure is quick and relatively painless, with minimal side effects.

Electrocautery

Electrocautery is a procedure that uses an electrical current to burn off the skin tag. The heat generated by the current cauterizes the blood vessels, preventing bleeding during the removal process. This method is effective for larger skin tags and typically leaves a small scar.

Ligation

Ligation involves tying off the base of the skin tag with a sterile thread or dental floss. This process cuts off the blood supply to the skin tag, causing it to wither and fall off. Ligation is a simple and cost-effective method, but it may take longer for the skin tag to detach.

Excision

Excision is a surgical procedure in which the dermatologist uses a scalpel or surgical scissors to cut out the skin tag. This method is typically used for larger or stubborn skin tags. Local anesthesia may be administered to numb the area before the procedure.

4. Aftercare Tips

After removing a skin tag, proper aftercare is essential to promote healing and minimize the risk of infection. Follow these aftercare tips:

• Keep the area clean and dry.
• Avoid scratching or picking at the wound.
• Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the area.
• Cover the wound with a sterile bandage or dressing.
• Avoid exposing the area to excessive moisture or friction.
• Follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your dermatologist.

5. Causes of Skin Tags

The exact cause of skin tags is still unknown, but several factors may contribute to their development. These factors include:

• Friction: Skin rubbing against skin or clothing may trigger the formation of skin tags.
• Hormonal changes: Skin tags may occur during pregnancy or in individuals with hormonal imbalances.
• Obesity: Excess weight can increase the likelihood of developing skin tags, especially in areas where skin folds or creases.
• Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing skin tags.

6. When to Consult a Dermatologist

While home remedies can be effective for small and isolated skin tags, it’s important to consult a dermatologist in the following situations:

• If the skin tag is large, bleeding, or causing significant discomfort.
• If you’re unsure whether the growth is a skin tag or another type of skin lesion.
• If you have a history of skin cancer or other skin conditions.
• If the skin tag is located on the face, genitals, or other sensitive areas.

7. FAQs

Q: Are skin tags contagious? A: No, skin tags are not contagious. They are benign growths and pose no risk of spreading to others.

Q: Can I remove a skin tag by cutting it off myself? A: It’s not recommended to cut off a skin tag yourself. This can lead to bleeding, infection, and scarring. It’s best to have a dermatologist remove the skin tag using safe and sterile techniques.

Q: Are there any risks or complications associated with skin tag removal? A: Removing skin tags is generally a safe procedure when performed by a dermatologist. However, there is a small risk of infection, bleeding, scarring, or regrowth of the skin tag.

8. Conclusion

Removing skin tags at home can be a viable option for small and uncomplicated growths. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution and consult a dermatologist for professional removal, especially for large, bothersome, or sensitive skin tags. Proper aftercare and understanding the causes of skin tags can help in preventing their recurrence. If you have any concerns or questions about skin tag removal, it’s always best to seek advice from a healthcare professional.

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