Skin tags are a common skin condition that can appear on any body part. They are harmless, but many people find them unsightly and want to eliminate them. If you have skin tags and would like to remove them at home, there are several methods you can try.
In this post, we'll discuss how to get rid of skin tags naturally or by using over-the-counter products at home.
Skin tags, also known as acrochordons or fibroepithelial polyps, are small, benign growths that typically form in areas where the skin folds or rubs against itself. These areas can include the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids and under the breasts.
Skin tags are primarily composed of several different types of cells and tissues. The outer layer or epidermis, is usually of normal thickness or slightly thinner than the surrounding skin. Beneath the epidermis lies the dermis, which contains collagen and elastin fibers. These fibers are crucial in providing structure, flexibility and strength to the skin tag. Inside the skin tag, you'll find a core made up of collagen fibers and blood vessels. Some skin tags may also contain nerve cells and fat cells.
Signs of skin tags include:
The most common theory suggests that skin tags develop due to friction from parts of the skin rubbing against each other. This is why they often occur in skin folds or areas of the body where skin rubs against clothing or jewelry. The friction causes the skin to thicken in these areas, eventually forming a skin tag.
Skin tags are more common in older adults, suggesting they might be part of the natural aging process. As skin ages, it loses elasticity, which could contribute to the formation of skin tags.
Hormonal imbalances or changes may also play a role in developing skin tags. For example, they often appear during pregnancy, possibly due to hormonal changes or increased friction as the body grows and changes shape.
Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing skin tags.
Obesity can lead to increased skin folds and friction, which may increase the risk of developing skin tags.
As mentioned, while skin tags are harmless and usually don't require treatment, some people may wish to remove them for cosmetic reasons or if they become irritated. It's always best to have a healthcare professional remove skin tags, but if you choose to try removing them at home, here are some ways:
Several over-the-counter products are available for skin tag removal, often in the form of creams, patches or freezing kits. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products.
These are small bands that you can place around the base of the skin tag. The band cuts off the blood supply to the skin tag, causing it to fall off after several days.
Some people believe applying tea tree oil to skin tags over time can help them dry out and fall off. However, this method is not scientifically proven, and tea tree oil can cause skin irritation in some people.
Like tea tree oil, some people claim that apple cider vinegar can help remove skin tags. The idea is to soak a cotton ball in the vinegar, apply it to the skin tag, and then cover it with a bandage. This should be done several times a day. Again, this method isn't backed by scientific evidence and can cause skin irritation.
Some people have reported successfully removing skin tags by rubbing the inside of a banana peel into the affected area. The enzymes in the peel are believed to help dry out and remove the skin tag, maybe due to their antioxidant properties.
Another method some people use is applying vitamin E oil to the skin tag daily. Vitamin E is thought to help shrink and dry out skin tags over time.
Another natural remedy for skin tag removal is garlic. Many believe that applying crushed garlic to the skin tag and covering it with a bandage can help remove it. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this method.
There is anecdotal evidence that liquid iodine can be used at home for skin tag removal. The type of iodine you should consider using is called povidone-iodine, which is an over-the-counter topical iodine. It's believed to work by breaking down skin cells. To use it, you could apply a drop on the skin tag twice a day.
Note that there is little research to support the effectiveness of at-home methods for skin tag removal, so it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting any method.
While using home remedies for skin tag removal, there are several things that you should avoid to prevent complications or discomfort:
While most skin tags are harmless, there are times when you should see a doctor for evaluation and treatment. These include:
While there are various home remedies and over-the-counter treatments available, there are several reasons why you may want to consider having your skin tags removed by a plastic surgeon:
Plastic surgeons use several methods to remove skin tags, depending on various factors like the size, location and number of skin tags:
These procedures are usually quick, often lasting under 30 minutes, and most skin tags are small enough that they don't require anesthesia. However, the area is typically numbed for comfort during the procedure.
If you're considering removing a skin tag or benign skin growths, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for the safest and most effective method.
At The Minor Surgery Center, our experienced plastic surgeons in Toronto can safely and effectively remove your skin tags without leaving scars or causing discomfort. We have been performing this procedure for years, making us an expert in skin tag removal in Toronto.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
