Skin tags are small, soft, harmless growths that appear on the skin. They are usually flesh-colored or slightly darker and can be found on any part of the body, but are most commonly found in areas where the skin rubs against other skin, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. While skin tags are generally harmless and do not require treatment, they can be unsightly and may cause discomfort if they get caught on clothing or jewelry.
The exact cause of skin tags is not known, but they are believed to be related to skin rubbing against skin or clothing. Some factors that may contribute to their development include:
- Age: Skin tags are more common in middle-aged and elderly individuals.
Obesity: People who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop skin tags, particularly in skin folds.
- Genetics: Some people may be more prone to developing skin tags due to their genetic makeup.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy may lead to the development of skin tags.
Medical conditions: Skin tags may be more common in people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes.
- Friction: Areas of the body where skin rubs against skin, such as the neck, armpits, and groin, are more likely to develop skin tags.
There are several methods available to remove skin tags:
- Surgical removal: This involves cutting off the skin tag with a scalpel or scissors. It is a quick and relatively painless procedure that can be performed in a healthcare professional’s office. Local anesthesia may be used to numb the area before the procedure.
- Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen. The freezing causes the skin tag to die and fall off. This method can be done in a healthcare professional’s office and may cause some discomfort during the procedure.
- Electrosurgery: This involves using an electric current to burn off the skin tag. It is a quick procedure that can be done in a healthcare professional’s office. Local anesthesia may be used to numb the area before the procedure.
- Ligation: This involves tying a small string or thread tightly around the base of the skin tag, cutting off its blood supply. The skin tag eventually dies and falls off. This method can be done at home or in a healthcare professional’s office.
- Over-the-counter remedies: There are several over-the-counter remedies available that claim to remove skin tags, such as creams or oils. These remedies may take longer to work and may not be as effective as other methods.
Some of the most effective natural ways to get rid of skin tags:
- Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and can be used to remove skin tags. Apply a few drops of tea tree oil to a cotton swab and apply to the skin tag three times a day. It may take several weeks to see results.
- Apple cider vinegar: Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the skin tag. Cover it with a bandage and leave it on overnight. Repeat this process for several days until the skin tag falls off.
- Garlic: Crush a clove of garlic and apply it to the skin tag. Cover it with a bandage and leave it on overnight. Repeat this process for several days until the skin tag falls off.
- Banana peel: Cut a small piece of banana peel and place it on the skin tag. Cover it with a bandage and leave it on overnight. Repeat this process for several days until the skin tag falls off.
- Vitamin E: Cut open a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil to the skin tag. Cover it with a bandage and leave it on overnight. Repeat this process for several days until the skin tag falls off.
- Aloe vera: Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the skin tag and cover it with a bandage. Leave it on overnight and repeat the process for several days until the skin tag falls off.
It is important to note that while natural remedies are generally safe, it is important to have any new growths on the skin checked by a healthcare professional to rule out the possibility of skin cancer. If a skin tag becomes irritated, infected, or painful, it may need to be removed by a healthcare professional.