Home remedies for skin tag removal

Check with a doctor before trying the following methods.

1. A tag removal device

A person uses a skin tag removal device to cut off the supply of blood to the base of the tag with a tiny band.

The medical community refers to this process as ligation.

Without a supply of blood, the cells will die, and the tag will drop away, usually within 10 days.

2. String

Some people try to achieve ligation with a piece of dental floss or string. It can be tricky to do this without the help of a device or another person.

When the flow of blood has been cut off for at least a few days, the tag should fall away. It may be necessary to tighten the string or floss every day.

Before using this method, clean the skin, string, and hands thoroughly to prevent infection.

3. Skin tag removal cream

Kits containing cream and an applicator are available. Usually, only one application of cream is necessary.

Instructions to some kits recommend cleaning the skin with an alcohol wipe and filing down the tag before applying the cream, to ensure that it is fully absorbed.

The cream may cause a mild stinging sensation. Tags should fall off within 2 to 3 weeks.

4. Freezing kit

A person can use a product containing liquid nitrogen to freeze off skin tags. These products are often available in drugstores and pharmacies.

As always, follow instructions. Several applications may be necessary before a growth falls away, but this usually occurs within 10 days.

The spray should not come into contact with surrounding skin. A person may want to apply petroleum jelly to the area around the tag for protection.

5. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an essential oil used to treat several skin conditions, including skin tags. However, only anecdotal evidence supports its use.

People typically apply a few drops of the oil to a cotton ball, which they then affix to the skin tag with a bandage. The cotton ball is usually left on the skin tag for 10 minutes, three times daily. It may take several days or weeks for the tag to fall off.

This remedy should be used with caution, as tea tree oil may irritate sensitive skin. Never use tea tree oil for tags located around the eyes.

6. Apple cider vinegar

Little research has been conducted on the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar for skin tag removal.

People often soak a cotton ball in the vinegar and affix it to the tag with a bandage for 10 minutes two or three times a day, until the tag falls away.

Watch for skin irritation and discontinue use if any adverse reactions are experienced. Do not use this method around the eyes.

7. Iodine

Anecdotal evidence suggests that a person can use liquid iodine to remove skin tags.

First, protect the surrounding skin by applying petroleum jelly or coconut oil to the area. Soak a Q-tip in iodine and spread the liquid across the tag. Cover the area with a bandage until the iodine has dried.

Repeat this treatment twice a day until the tag drops off.

8. Cutting

A doctor may recommend cutting away the growth with a sharp blade or scissors. Never attempt this with medium or large skin tags, as this can cause bleeding. Tags usually measure anywhere from a few millimeters to 2 inches in width.

Only consider this method if the skin tag has a very narrow base. Scissors and blades should be sterilized before and after use.

Seek professional advice before attempting this method, and never cut off skin tags located around the eyes or genitals.