Skin tags are soft, fleshy growths that form on the skin. Commonly known as Acrochordons in the medical circle, they can be caused by factors such as genetics, obesity, skin irritation and friction. They are mostly a cosmetic concern and do not pose any harm to the person. While a doctor can help you get rid of these by burning, cutting, or freezing them off, there are certain home remedies that can help you get rid of these too. Also, once removed, they do not form in the same area again. Often confused with moles, kindly consider exploring these ideas aside from some of the best mole removal creams. Let’s take a look at these remedies in this article.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar has antiseptic properties and has been used for generations to kill fungi and bacteria, to regulate pH levels, and for many other purposes. To remove skin tags, apply apple cider vinegar to a cotton ball and put it on the area. Make sure you clean the area before applying the cotton ball. Massage the skin gently with the cotton ball to ensure that the area is saturated with vinegar. Repeat the procedure three times a day until the skin tag is gone.
- Lemon Juice
Another powerful antiseptic, lemon juice helps get rid of skin tags by decomposing the cells. Take half of a fresh lemon and squeeze the juice out. Soak a cotton ball in this juice and apply directly to the tag. Apply this up to three times a day until the skin tag falls off.
- Garlic
Garlic can also be used to remove skin tags and improve overall skin health. Make a paste of fresh garlic cloves by grounding them and apply this paste to the skin tag. This will help in drying out the skin tag. Place a bandage over the paste and let garlic’s anti-fungal and antibacterial properties work their magic. Apply it at night for maximum exposure and wash out the next morning. If you experience skin irritation apply the paste for two nights followed by a two-night break.
- Tea tree oil
Tea tree has a long tradition of being used for all kinds of skin ailments. Most people do not have a reaction to tea tree oil. Dip a Q-tip in tea tree oil and apply gently to the skin tag three times a day. Hold it in place for 10 minutes. With daily application, the skin tag should be removed within a few weeks. If it irritates your skin, you may blend it with coconut oil. This may, however, increase the treatment time.
- Oregano Oil
Oregano oil has antifungal qualities that allow it to treat a variety of skin ailments including skin tags. It usually takes about a month for the skin tag to fall off. It is advised to mix oregano oil with another soothing carrier like coconut oil or almond oil. There is no need to cover it with a bandage. Let it be absorbed by the skin. Be careful not to apply it on irritated skin.
- Dandelion Oil
Rich vitamin and mineral containing dandelion are very good at removing skin tags. It helps to break down and remove excess tissue of the skin. Use the root/stem of the dandelion for this purpose. Gently squeeze it to extract its sap. Use three drops on the skin tag at least three times a day and the skin tag should fall off within a month. Use a band aid to cover the area and keep the juice in place. Do clean and dry the skin between applications.
Summing it up:
If the skin tag is near the eyes, it is best to have a professional advice you on possible options to remove it. If it is anywhere else on the body, these home remedies work very well and you should try them out. These will usually take anywhere from a few days to weeks to help. Patience is important.