Skin tags are small pieces of soft, hanging skin that may have a peduncle, or stalk. They appear most commonly where skin rubs on skin or clothing. Over-the-counter medications and minor surgery can remove them if a person wishes.
Other names are acrochordon, cutaneous papilloma, cutaneous tag, fibroepithelial polyp, fibroma molluscum, fibroma pendulum, soft fibroma, and Templeton skin tags.
Skin tags are very common and generally occur after midlife. They affect men and women equally.
Here are some effective ways to get rid of skin tags:
Home Remedies
- Castor Oil and Baking Soda: Mix castor oil and baking soda to form a paste. Apply it to the skin tag and cover with a bandage. Leave it overnight and repeat for several nights.
- Tea Tree Oil: Apply tea tree oil directly to the skin tag using a cotton swab. Repeat twice a day for several days.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the skin tag. Secure with a bandage and leave it overnight.
- Garlic: Crush a clove of garlic and apply it to the skin tag. Secure with a bandage and leave it overnight.
Medical Treatments
- Cryotherapy: A doctor will freeze the skin tag using liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off within a few days.
- Ligation: A doctor will tie off the skin tag with surgical thread, cutting off its blood supply and causing it to fall off.
- Excision: A doctor will surgically remove the skin tag.
- Prescription Creams: A doctor may prescribe creams or ointments that contain salicylic acid or urea to help remove skin tags.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products
- Salicylic Acid Products: OTC products containing salicylic acid, such as Compound W, can help dissolve skin tags.
- Skin Tag Removers: OTC products specifically designed to remove skin tags, such as Tagband or Skin Tag Remover, can be effective.
Prevention
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can lead to skin friction, which can cause skin tags.
- Avoid Tight Clothing: Wearing tight clothing can cause skin friction, leading to skin tags.
- Keep Skin Moisturized: Dry skin can lead to skin friction, which can cause skin tags.
Remember to consult a doctor if you’re unsure about the best way to remove a skin tag or if you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.
