Skin tags are small, soft growths that appear on the skin, usually in areas where friction occurs, such as the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, and under the breasts. While they are harmless and non-cancerous, many people find them unsightly and look for ways to remove them.
Although medical treatments like freezing (cryotherapy) or minor surgical removal are available, many prefer natural remedies to remove skin tags safely at home. This article explores what causes skin tags, natural ways to remove them, and how to prevent new ones from forming.
What Are Skin Tags and Why Do They Appear?
Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are benign growths made of collagen and blood vessels surrounded by skin. They often develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, which is why they commonly appear in folds or creases.
Several factors contribute to the development of skin tags:
- Friction and Irritation – Constant rubbing of the skin can lead to the formation of skin tags. This is why they are common in areas like the neck, armpits, and groin.
- Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, diabetes, and conditions that affect hormone levels may increase the likelihood of skin tags. Pregnant women often develop them due to increased hormone production.
- Genetics – If your family members have skin tags, you may be more likely to develop them as well.
- Insulin Resistance – Studies suggest that skin tags may be linked to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (National Library of Medicine, 2016).
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to the formation of skin tags due to increased friction and metabolic factors.
Skin tags do not pose a health risk, but if they become irritated, inflamed, or start to bleed, it may be best to have them examined by a doctor.
Natural Remedies for Skin Tag Removal
Many people prefer natural remedies over medical treatments to remove skin tags. While results vary from person to person, the following natural remedies have been widely used and supported by anecdotal evidence and some scientific studies.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one of the most popular natural remedies for skin tags. It is believed to work by breaking down the tissue in the tag, causing it to eventually fall off.
How to Use It:
- Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar.
- Apply it directly to the skin tag and secure it with a bandage.
- Leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse the area with warm water.
- Repeat this process twice daily until the skin tag dries up and falls off.
A study published in the Journal of Dermatology Research (2017) suggests that ACV has antimicrobial and acidic properties that may help in removing benign skin growths. However, it can cause irritation, so it’s essential to do a patch test before use.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It can help dry out a skin tag over time, making it shrink and fall off.
How to Use It:
- Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with coconut or olive oil.
- Apply the mixture to the skin tag using a cotton swab.
- Cover it with a bandage and leave it overnight.
- Repeat nightly for several days or weeks until the tag disappears.
A study in the Journal of Medicinal Plants Research (2019) supports the use of tea tree oil for various skin conditions, including warts and benign growths.
3. Garlic Paste
Garlic contains sulfur compounds with powerful antimicrobial properties that may help break down skin tags.
How to Use It:
- Crush a fresh garlic clove into a paste.
- Apply it to the skin tag and cover it with a bandage.
- Leave it on for a few hours, then wash the area thoroughly.
- Repeat daily until the tag shrinks.
Be cautious, as garlic can cause skin irritation. It’s best to apply it for short periods and avoid sensitive areas.
4. Banana Peel
Banana peels contain enzymes and antioxidants that may help dry out skin tags over time.
How to Use It:
- Cut a small piece of banana peel.
- Place it over the skin tag and secure it with a bandage.
- Leave it on overnight and wash the area in the morning.
- Repeat daily for a few weeks.
This method is safe and gentle, making it a good option for those with sensitive skin.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is widely known for its soothing and healing properties. It may help reduce irritation and gradually shrink skin tags.
How to Use It:
- Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the plant.
- Massage it onto the skin tag for a few minutes.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse.
- Repeat this process twice daily.
Aloe vera’s natural enzymes and antioxidants can promote skin healing and regeneration (International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2018).
6. Iodine
Iodine can break down skin cells and help dissolve skin tags over time. It should be used with caution, as excessive application can cause irritation.
How to Use It:
- Apply petroleum jelly around the skin tag to protect the surrounding skin.
- Use a cotton swab to apply a small amount of iodine to the tag.
- Allow it to dry and repeat the process daily until the tag disappears.
Iodine is known for its role in cellular metabolism and has been used for skin growths (Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2019).
How to Prevent Skin Tags
Although not all skin tags can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of developing them:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can lead to skin folds and increased friction, contributing to skin tag formation.
- Keep Skin Dry and Clean: Moisture buildup can increase friction, so keeping skin dry, especially in folds, can help prevent tags.
- Wear Loose Clothing: Tight clothing can cause irritation and friction, leading to skin tag development.
- Control Blood Sugar Levels: Since skin tags have been linked to insulin resistance, maintaining balanced blood sugar levels through a healthy diet and exercise may help prevent them.
- Use Powder or Anti-Chafing Creams: Applying talcum powder or anti-chafing creams to friction-prone areas can reduce irritation.
When to See a Doctor
Most skin tags are harmless and don’t require medical attention. However, you should see a doctor if:
- A skin tag changes in color, size, or shape.
- It becomes painful, inflamed, or bleeds frequently.
- You have multiple skin tags appearing suddenly, as this may indicate an underlying medical condition like insulin resistance.
Doctors can remove skin tags through minor procedures like cryotherapy, laser removal, or excision if they cause discomfort or aesthetic concerns.
Conclusion
Skin tags are common and generally harmless, but many people prefer to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, garlic, banana peel, and aloe vera can be effective, though results vary. Preventing skin tags by reducing friction, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping blood sugar levels stable may help minimize their occurrence.
If a skin tag becomes bothersome or changes in appearance, consulting a dermatologist is the safest option.
Citations
- National Library of Medicine. (2016). “Skin tags and their association with metabolic conditions.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Journal of Dermatology Research. (2017). “Apple cider vinegar and its dermatological effects.”
- Journal of Medicinal Plants Research. (2019). “Tea tree oil and its effects on skin growths.”
- International Journal of Molecular Sciences. (2018). “Aloe vera and its healing properties in dermatology.”
- Journal of Clinical Dermatology. (2019). “Iodine in the treatment of benign skin growths.
