Skin tags are small growths or flaps of skin which are usually found around the neck, eyes, underarms, breasts, or groin.
Thought to be caused by friction, skin irritation, obesity, and even genetics, these growths – which affect one in four people – are harmless. However, many people find them annoying, while others would like them gone for cosmetic reasons.
While you can visit your doctor to have skin tags burned off, cut off, or frozen off, at-home methods are usually much gentler, and more cost-effective.
- Apple cider vinegar
Used for generations for skin care because of its ability to kill harmful bacteria and fungi, balance pH levels, and so much more, organic apple cider vinegar is always at the top of the list for treating skin ailments including skin tags, warts, eczema and acne.Simply soak a sterile cotton ball with apple cider vinegar and secure it in place over the skin tag with a bandage for 20 minutes. Remove and check for any irritation on the skin. If no irritation is evident, you will want to do the 20-minute treatment during the day and then before bed. Apply the soaked cotton ball and secure it, and leave it on overnight.With ongoing treatment, the skin tag may start to darken in color, indicating it is dying. Keep up with the apple cider vinegar compresses; it may take a few days or even a couple of weeks to see the results, but this is one of the safest and easiest ways when learning how to remove skin tags.
- Tea tree oil.
With strong antiseptic properties and its ability to kill fungal infections while soothing the skin, tea tree oil is a safe and effective treatment for a wide array of skin conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis and skin tags.
To help remove a skin tag, apply 6 to 8 drops of a high-quality tea tree oil to a sterile cotton ball and secure to the skin with a bandage. Remove after 15 minutes. Do this three times a day until the skin tag falls off. This may take a few days, or even weeks, depending on the location and size.
Please discontinue using it if you experience discomfort.
- Oregano oil
Oregano oil can help to relieve skin issues, bacterial and fungal infections, viruses and much more. Oregano has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Because of this, it is vital that you mix it with a carrier oil, like coconut oil or almond oil, before applying to the skin. Mix 2 drops of a carrier oil with 4 drops of a high-quality oil of oregano and apply three times a day to skin tags. You do not need to cover it with a bandage; allow it to soak into the skin naturally. Do not apply it to broken or irritated skin.
- Iodine
A topical application of liquid iodine may help remove skin tags. It works by breaking down skin cells, so it is extremely important that you only apply to the skin tag and avoid the healthy surrounding skin. To be safe, carefully apply coconut oil to a one-half inch area around the skin tag to create a barrier. Then apply a couple of drops of iodine with a sterile cotton swab. Repeat twice each day until the skin tag falls off.
- Garlic
While definitely the smelliest choice on this list, crushed garlic has been used for generations to treat warts and skin tags. Simply crush a large clove of garlic with a knife to release the potent oils of the garlic, and then secure with a bandage over the skin tag. Best results will come with repeated overnight applications; in the morning, wash and dry the area well.
You could also read our Dermabellix review which is a top rated skin tags removal product.