Skin tags (also known as acrochordons) are benign, painless skin growths that often appear in areas such as the neck, armpits, eyelids, or under the breasts. Although harmless, they can cause discomfort from a cosmetic standpoint or due to friction with clothing.
In this article, we will review methods for treating skin tags, both with home remedies and medical treatments.
First: Home Remedies for Skin Tags
Some small skin tags can be treated with natural methods, but you should consult a doctor first if they are large or in sensitive areas such as the eyelids.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
- The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar is believed to help dry out skin tags.
- Method:
- Clean the area with soap and water.
- Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and place it on the skin tag.
- Secure it with a bandage and leave it on for several hours or overnight.
- Repeat daily until the tag falls off (this may take a couple of weeks).
2. Tea Tree Oil
- It has antiviral and antifungal properties.
- Method:
- Dilute the oil with water (one drop of oil with one drop of water).
- Apply the mixture to the tag using a cotton swab.
- Leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse.
- Repeat 2-3 times daily for a couple of weeks.
3. Garlic
- Contains enzymes that help shrink skin tags.
- Method:
- Crush a clove of garlic and apply the paste to the tag.
- Cover it with a bandage and leave it on overnight.
- Repeat daily until it disappears.
4. Baking Soda with Castor Oil
- This mixture helps to dry out the tags gradually.
- Method:
- Mix baking soda with castor oil to make a paste.
- Apply it to the tag and cover it with a bandage.
- Leave it on for several hours, then wash it off.
- Repeat daily for a couple of weeks.
5. Dental Floss or String
- A sterile thread can be tied around the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply until it falls off.
- Method:
- Clean the area with rubbing alcohol.
- Tie the floss tightly around the base of the tag.
- Leave it on for several days until the tag dries up and falls off.
Warning: Do not use this method if the tag is large or in a sensitive area.
Second: Medical Treatment for Skin Tags
If skin tags are large or numerous, it is best to consult a doctor for safe removal methods, such as:
1. Cauterization
- The doctor uses a small electrical current to burn off the skin tag.
- This is done under local anesthesia and takes a few minutes.
2. Cryotherapy
- Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the skin tag until it falls off.
- You may need more than one session.
3. Surgical Excision
- The doctor cuts off the skin tag with surgical scissors after numbing the area.
- Suitable for large skin tags.
4. Laser Removal
- Lasers are used to remove skin tags precisely without bleeding.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- If the skin tag changes color or shape.
- If it bleeds or is painful.
- If it appears in a sensitive area such as the eyelids or genitals.
Conclusion
Small skin tags can be treated with home methods like apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil, but if they are large or bothersome, it is best to have them removed medically to avoid infection or scarring.
Disclaimer: The information provided does not replace medical advice, especially if the tags are in sensitive areas or accompanied by unusual symptoms.
