Skin tags are super common, and guess what? They’re more likely to pop up in women, especially during pregnancy, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
In fact, 85% of people seek skin tag removal just to feel more confident. If you’re one of them, this step-by-step guide to safe, natural remedies is for you!
Before we jump in, let’s clear up a popular myth: using toothpaste to remove skin tags overnight. Sounds tempting, right?
My husband is a Dermatalogist and he says, “It doesn’t work and can even irritate your skin”.
Stick with us for methods that are gentle and effective, and you’ll be on your way to smoother skin in no time.
What Are Skin Tags?
Skin tags are those small, soft bits of skin that hang off your body, often in places like your neck, armpits, or groin. They’re harmless but can be annoying sometimes.
They usually look like tiny flaps and feel a bit squishy.
So, why do they show up? Things like skin rubbing together (think tight clothes or folds), hormonal changes, being overweight, or even genetics can play a role.
They’re super common, so don’t stress if you’ve got a few.
That said, keep an eye on them. If a skin tag changes color, starts bleeding, or looks odd, check in with a dermatologist. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
How to Get Rid of Skin Tags: Step-by-Step Natural Remedies
These methods use simple ingredients you might already have, and they’re safe when done right.
Always do a patch test first to make sure your skin is happy, and avoid sensitive areas like near your eyes. Here’s how to do it:
1. Tea Tree Oil Application
Tea tree oil is a natural favorite for tackling skin tags because it’s gentle and has drying properties.
What You’ll Need: Tea tree oil, a cotton swab, and a small bandage.
Steps to Follow:
- Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a teaspoon of water or a carrier oil (like coconut oil) to dilute it. This keeps it from being too strong.
- Dip a cotton swab in the mix and dab it on the skin tag.
- Cover it with a bandage and leave it on overnight.
- Rinse it off in the morning. Repeat every night for 2–4 weeks, and you will see the skin tag shrink or fall off.
Patience is key—it’s slow but steady!
2. Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a go-to for lots of home remedies, and it can work for skin tags, too.
What You’ll Need: Apple cider vinegar, a cotton ball, and a bandage.
Steps to Follow:
- Soak a small piece of a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar. Squeeze out any extra liquid.
- Place it on the skin tag and secure it with a bandage.
- Leave it on for about 10 minutes, then rinse with water.
- Do this once a day. Over a few weeks, the skin tag may dry up and come off.
Be gentle—vinegar can sting if you overdo it!
3. Garlic Paste
Garlic isn’t just for cooking; it’s got natural properties that help with skin tags.
What You’ll Need: A fresh garlic clove, petroleum jelly, and a bandage.
Steps to Follow:
- Crush a garlic clove into a paste.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the skin tag to protect the nearby skin.
- Put a small dab of garlic paste on the skin tag and cover it with a bandage.
- Leave it on overnight, then rinse in the morning. Repeat for 1–3 weeks.
It’s a bit smelly, but it’s worth a try!
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is super soothing and help reduce the size of skin tags over time.
What You’ll Need: Fresh aloe vera gel (or store-bought, pure gel).
Steps to Follow:
- Rub a small amount of aloe vera gel onto the skin tag.
- Let it sink in—no need to rinse.
- Do this every night before bed for 3–6 weeks.
It’s gentle and great for your skin overall!
5. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is less common but has antibacterial powers that some swear by for skin tags.
What You’ll Need: Oregano oil, a carrier oil (like olive oil), and a bandage.
Steps to Follow:
- Dilute a drop of oregano oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil.
- Apply it to the skin tag with a cotton swab.
- Cover with a bandage and leave it on overnight.
- Rinse in the morning and repeat nightly for a few weeks.
This one’s strong, so always dilute it!
6. Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a mild abrasive that helps dry out skin tags.
What You’ll Need: Baking soda, water, and a bandage.
Steps to Follow:
- Mix a pinch of baking soda with a drop of water to make a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the skin tag and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Rinse it off with water. Repeat daily for a few weeks.
It’s super simple and uses stuff you probably have in your kitchen!
Quick Tips: Always do a patch test on a small area of skin first to avoid irritation. Stay away from sensitive spots, and if anything burns or feels wrong, stop right away.
These remedies take time, so don’t rush it. If you’re not seeing results or the skin tag looks weird, check with a dermatologist.
Which Skin Tag Removal Method Will You Try?
Not Recommended Methods
Okay, let’s talk about what not to do. You see some tips online that sound quick and easy, but they can cause more harm than good.
Here are a couple of methods to steer clear of:
- Tying with Floss or Thread: Some people suggest tying a piece of dental floss or thread around the base of a skin tag to cut off its blood supply. This might make it fall off, but it’s too risky. You could end up with an infection or damage your skin if it’s not done properly. Plus, it’s tricky to get it right at home.
- Cutting at Home: Grabbing scissors or a blade to snip off a skin tag? Big no-no. This leads to bleeding, scarring, or a nasty infection. Your skin deserves better than that!
Leave these methods to the pros. If you’re thinking about removal, a dermatologist can do it safely and cleanly.
Stick with the natural remedies we shared earlier—they’re much kinder to your skin!
Why Toothpaste Doesn’t Work?
You’ve probably heard the buzz about using toothpaste to remove skin tags overnight. It’s a popular myth, but here’s the truth: it doesn’t work.
Toothpaste is great for your teeth, but it’s not made for skin tags.
Slathering it on dry out your skin or cause irritation, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin. In some cases, it even leads to redness or wrinkles around the area—yikes!
There’s no science backing up toothpaste as a skin tag fix.
Dr. Ethan Rose, a dermatologist, puts it simply: “Toothpaste isn’t designed for skin tag removal. It can irritate the skin and won’t target the growth effectively. Stick to proven methods or see a professional for safe removal.”
Trust the experts on this one—your skin will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are skin tags dangerous?
2. Does apple cider vinegar work?
3. Can I prevent skin tags?
Conclusion
So, there you have it—a handful of natural ways to tackle skin tags at home! From tea tree oil to aloe vera, these remedies are gentle, easy, and use stuff you might already have.
Just remember to be patient, do a patch test, and keep an eye out for any changes that seem off. If a skin tag is stubborn or looks unusual, a quick visit to a dermatologist is a good way to go.
Safety first, always! Skip risky tricks like cutting or tying off skin tags, and don’t fall for the toothpaste myth.
Which remedy are you excited to try? Let us know in the poll above!
