Several home remedies are popular for attempting to remove skin tags, but scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited, and risks of skin irritation or injury exist. If you choose to proceed at home, commonly suggested methods include:
- Tea Tree Oil: Apply diluted tea tree oil with a cotton swab to the skin tag, then cover with a bandage. Repeat nightly until the tag dries out and falls off. Its antiviral and antifungal properties are cited, though results may require several nights of use[1][2][3][4].
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Soak a cotton swab in diluted ACV and place it over the skin tag. Secure with a bandage for 15-30 minutes, then wash the area. Repeat daily for 1-2 weeks. The acidity of ACV is believed to break down tag tissue, but scientific proof is lacking and skin irritation or burns are possible[1][2][3][4][5][7].
- Banana Peel: Cover the tag with a piece of banana peel and a bandage overnight. Repeat nightly; antioxidants in the peel are thought to aid drying, but evidence is anecdotal[1][2].
- Vitamin E Oil: Massage liquid vitamin E over the tag and nearby skin daily. Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties may help reduce size, but definitive proof is lacking[1][3].
- Crushed Garlic: Apply crushed garlic to the tag, cover overnight, then wash in the morning. Some believe garlic’s anti-inflammatory effect helps shrink the tag[1][2][3].
- Tying Off (Ligation): Gently tie dental floss or thin thread around the base of the tag to cut off its blood supply. It may fall off within days, though infection or scarring is possible. Do not cut off skin tags with scissors—this is unsafe and can cause complications[7].
- Over-the-Counter Products: Creams, patches, and freezing kits (cryotherapy) are available, designed to dry or freeze off skin tags. These can be effective but should be used precisely as directed[4][5][7].
Risks and Precautions: Home remedies may cause skin irritation, burns, allergic reactions, infection, bleeding, or scarring. Always avoid using acids or strong substances near sensitive areas (like the eyes or genitals). If unsure the growth is a skin tag, or if the tag is large, painful, bleeding, or located in a sensitive area, consult a healthcare professional. Removing skin tags at home carries risks, and professional removal is recommended for safety[5][7][8].
References
- [1] Skin Tag Removal: Home Remedies, OTC Options, and More
- [2] How to Remove Skin Tags Naturally
- [3] Your Best Options for Removing Those Pesky Skin Tags
- [4] Different Methods for Removing Skin Tags
- [5] Why do skin tags develop and how to remove them
- [7] How Do You Get Rid of Skin Tags on Genitals?
- [8] How to Remove Skin Tags Yourself
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