How to Remove Skin Tags: Causes, Treatments & Home Remedies

Skin tag removal is a common concern for many people. If you’re wondering how to remove skin tags, it’s essential to understand what causes them first. Skin tags are small, soft, skin-coloured growths that often appear on areas like the neck, armpits, and under the breasts. While they’re generally harmless, they can be bothersome and cause irritation if they get caught on clothing or jewellery. Let’s dive deeper into the causes of skin tags.

What Causes Skin Tags?

Several factors can contribute to the development of skin tags, including:

1. Frequent Skin Irritation

One of the most common causes of skin tags is frequent skin irritation. This often occurs in areas where the skin rubs against itself or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, and under the breasts. The constant friction can lead to the formation of skin tags over time. Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the skin dry can help reduce the risk of developing skin tags due to irritation.

2. Human Papilloma virus (HPV)

While there is no direct evidence linking HPV to skin tags, some experts speculate that the virus may play a role in their development. HPV is known to cause other types of skin growths, such as warts, so it’s possible that it could also contribute to the formation of skin tags.

3. Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin, may indirectly influence the development of skin tags. People with insulin resistance are more likely to experience various metabolic changes that can affect the skin, potentially leading to the growth of skin tags. Managing insulin resistance through a healthy diet and lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing skin tags and other skin-related issues.

4. Pregnancy

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause a variety of skin changes, including the development of skin tags. The increased levels of hormones, such as oestrogen and progesterone, can stimulate the growth of skin cells, leading to the formation of skin tags. These growths often appear in areas where the skin rubs against itself, such as the neck and under the breasts. In most cases, skin tags that develop during pregnancy will disappear on their own after childbirth.

5. Genetics

Genetics may also play a role in the development of skin tags. Some people may have a familial predisposition to developing these growths, meaning that if a close family member has skin tags, you may be more likely to develop them as well. While genetics can’t be changed, being aware of your family history can help you take proactive steps to prevent skin tags, such as maintaining good hygiene and avoiding excessive skin friction.

How to Remove Skin Tags at Home

If you’re looking for a less invasive alternative to medical procedures, removing skin tags at home using natural remedies or over-the-counter products might be an option to consider. These methods typically involve drying out or irritating the skin tag until it falls off on its own. One such natural remedy is tea tree oil.

1. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a popular home remedy for skin tags due to its antiviral and antifungal properties. To use it, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil and apply the mixture to the skin tag. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off, and repeat this process twice a day until the tag disappears. Another natural remedy that some people use is banana peel.

2. Banana Peel

Banana peels are sometimes used to remove skin tags due to their antioxidant properties. To try this method, place a piece of banana peel over the tag and cover it with a bandage overnight. Repeat this process nightly until the tag falls off. However, it’s important to note that there’s no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of banana peels for skin tag removal. Another popular home remedy is apple cider vinegar.

3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar’s acidity is believed to break down skin tags. To use it, soak a cotton swab in diluted vinegar and apply it to the tag for 15-30 minutes. Repeat this process daily until the tag falls off. However, be cautious of skin irritation, as vinegar can be harsh on the skin. If you’re looking for a gentler option, vitamin E might be worth trying.

4. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that may help remove skin tags by promoting skin health. To use it, apply vitamin E oil to the skin tag and surrounding area nightly until it falls off. However, like banana peels, the effectiveness of vitamin E for skin tag removal is not clinically proven. Another natural remedy that some people swear by is garlic.

5. Garlic

Garlic is believed to shrink skin tags due to its anti-inflammatory properties. To use it, crush a clove and apply it to the skin tag overnight, then rinse off in the morning. Repeat this process until the tag disappears. However, it’s important to note that garlic may cause skin irritation, so use it with caution. If you’re not comfortable using natural remedies, over-the-counter products might be a more reliable option.

Over-the-Counter Products for Skin Tags

1. Minimalist Salicylic Acid 02% Face Serum

This serum contains salicylic acid, which can help exfoliate the skin but may not directly target skin tags. It’s best used as part of a regular skincare routine to maintain overall skin health.

Minimalist Salicylic Acid 02% Face Serum 30ml

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2. Ashwin Castor Oil

Castor oil is sometimes used for skin care due to its moisturising properties, though its efficacy on skin tags is limited. It can help keep the skin around the tag soft and supple, but may not remove the tag itself.

Ashwin Castor Oil 100ml

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3. Sunny Herbals Aloevera Calendula & Tea Tree Oil Face Wash Gel

This face wash combines aloe vera, calendula, and tea tree oil for soothing and cleansing the skin. While it may not directly remove skin tags, it can help keep the surrounding skin healthy and prevent irritation.

Sunny Herbals Aloevera Calendula & Tea Tree Oil Face Wash Gel 100gm

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4. Dr Batras Daily Care Tea Tree Oil Face Wash

This face wash contains tea tree oil, known for its antiviral properties. It can help cleanse the skin around the tag and prevent infection, but may not remove the tag on its own.

Dr Batras Daily Care Tea Tree Oil Face Wash 210gm

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5. Kyra Tea Tree Oil

Pure tea tree oil can be used directly on skin tags, but dilution is recommended to avoid irritation. Apply a small amount to the tag daily until it falls off, but discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Kyra Tea Tree Oil 50 ML

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6. Indus Valley 100% Pure Essential Tea Tree Oil

Similar to Kyra, this product provides pure tea tree oil for various skin issues. Dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin tag, and use it consistently until the tag disappears.

Indus Valley 100 % Pure Essential Tea Tree Oil 15 ML

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7. Wow Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash

This face wash incorporates apple cider vinegar, which might help break down skin tags. Use it regularly to cleanse the skin around the tag and promote overall skin health.

Wow Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash 150 ML

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8. Sri Sri Tattva Apple Cider Vinegar

This product uses apple cider vinegar as its main ingredient, which can be applied topically or used internally. For skin tags, dilute it with water and apply it directly to the tag daily until it falls off.

Sri Sri Tattva Apple Cider Vinegar 1000ml

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9. Agrawal Castor Oil

Another castor oil product that offers moisturising benefits but lacks direct evidence for skin tag removal. Use it to keep the skin around the tag soft and prevent dryness or irritation.

Agrawal Castor Oil 100ml

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10. Stemveda Vitamin E Oil

This oil is rich in antioxidants but has limited evidence for skin tag removal. Apply it to the tag and surrounding skin daily to promote overall skin health and prevent inflammation.

Stemveda Vitamin E Oil 100ml

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How to Remove Skin Tags in One Night – Is It Possible?

While it may be tempting to seek a quick fix for skin tags, attempting to remove them overnight is often unrealistic and potentially risky. Home remedies, such as applying tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar, typically require consistent application over several days or weeks to show results. Over-the-counter treatments, like cryotherapy kits, may promise faster outcomes, but their effectiveness can vary. For the quickest and most reliable results, professional methods performed by a healthcare provider, such as cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen, are usually the best option. However, these procedures are not typically done at home. If you’re considering medical skin tag removal, it’s essential to consult with a doctor to discuss the most suitable approach for your specific case.

Medical Procedures for Skin Tag Removal

For those seeking efficient and reliable skin tag removal, professional medical procedures offer the most effective solutions.

• Cryotherapy (Freezing): This method involves freezing the skin tag using liquid nitrogen, causing it to eventually fall off.
• Electrocautery (Cauterization): In this procedure, a heated instrument is used to burn off the skin tag. The heat also helps seal blood vessels, minimizing bleeding.
• Ligation: This technique involves tying off the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply, leading to its eventual death and detachment.
• Excision (Surgical Removal): In this surgical procedure, the skin tag is carefully cut off using a sharp blade.

Skin Tag Removal Aftercare Tips

Proper post-procedure care is essential for promoting healing and preventing infection after skin tag removal.

• Keep the treated area clean and dry for the first couple of days following the removal procedure.
• Once the site is no longer tender, gently cleanse the area with mild soap and water to maintain hygiene.
• Carefully follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions for wound care and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and monitor for any signs of complications.

When to See a Doctor About Skin Growths

If you notice any changes in the size, colour, or shape of a skin growth, or if it becomes painful or starts bleeding, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. These changes could be signs of other conditions, such as skin cancer, and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Additionally, if friction or irritation from a skin tag causes discomfort, it’s advisable to seek medical advice. Your doctor will assess the growth and provide an accurate diagnosis along with appropriate treatment options. In some cases, removal may be recommended for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate discomfort.

Conclusion

Skin tags are harmless growths that typically don’t require medical intervention unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns. If you choose to have a skin tag removed, it’s essential to opt for professional removal methods, as they are safe and effective. At-home treatments are not recommended due to the risk of complications, such as infection or scarring. To help prevent the formation of new skin tags, maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing your weight. If you have any concerns about skin growths, don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor for proper evaluation and guidance.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547724/
• https://journals.lww.com/ijd/fulltext/2007/52040/study_of_mast_cell_count_in_skin_tags.4.aspx
• https://ijdvl.com/skin-tags-leptin-metabolic-syndrome-and-change-of-the-life-style/
• https://bmcresnotes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13104-020-05006-4
• https://www.ijmbs.info/index.php/ijmbs/article/view/883