Skin Tag Removal at Home - Home Remedy for Skin Tags

Acrochordon, fibroepithelial polyp, cutaneous papilloma, fibroma molluscum, fibroma pendulum and papilloma colli, are some of the terms used to refer to a skin tag that is usually found as a small piece of hanging flesh or skin. However, the most common name of this benign skin growth is 'skin tag' or 'cutaneous skin tag'. It is characterized by a slender and small stalk, known as peduncle. Skin tags or acrochondra, are more commonly found in those areas of the body where the skin forms creases. Therefore, the neck, armpits, upper chest, groin and eyelids are the areas which are more affected by skin tags. Skin tags are usually harmless, as they are non-cancerous and painless. Before discussing the methods for skin tag removal at home, let's have a look at some of the possible causes of skin tags.

Causes of Skin Tags
The exact causes of skin tags are not known, though they are more commonly found in middle aged and older individuals. They are caused by skin chafing or rubbing. An association has been observed between obesity and skin tags. Another possible cause of skin tags may be insulin resistance, as they are often found in diabetic people. Pregnant women are also likely to develop skin tags. In addition to all these, role of genetics in the development of skin tags has been suspected, while in rare instances, human papillomavirus (HPV) is found to be associated with skin tags. On the other hand, multiple skin tags are believed to be inked to hormonal or endocrinal syndrome.

Skin Tags Removal
As skin tags usually do not pose any kind of health hazard, no treatment is required unless they are irritated due to rubbing of the skin and clothing or jewelry. However, some people want to get rid of skin tags, mainly for cosmetic reasons. The usual treatment options employed for skin tag removal include cauterization, cryosurgery, surgical excision and laser surgery. Cauterization involves the use of an electric current or chemical compounds for destroying the tissues of the skin tags, while cryosurgery is the method that uses liquid nitrogen for freezing them. On the other hand, laser surgery uses laser beams to achieve this purpose and surgical excision involves the conventional method of cutting off any outgrowth.

Skin Tag Removal at Home
Due to the cost involved in the medical surgical procedures, many individuals look for some home skin tag removal methods. One common practice in this regard is to tie the skin tag tightly at the stalk or peduncle and then cut it off with a sharp scissor. However, the scissor should be properly washed and sterilized with the help of alcohol, before being used. It is also important to apply a medicated or antiseptic ointment on the area to prevent any kind of infection. Another easy method for skin tag removal is to use a thread or dental floss for tying the skin tag at the base or stalk for a few days. This will cut off blood supply to the skin tag and it will fall off within a few days.

An ideal home remedy for skin tags is the application of apple cider vinegar. Applying tea tree oil on the area, 2 to 3 times a day, can also be effective in removing skin tags. Just clean the skin tag properly and then apply some tea tree oil and massage the area. Many people use nail polish on the skin tags, which however, should not be used in case of tags that grow on eyelids and other sensitive areas. Castor oil and baking soda are also suitable for skin tag removal at home. For this, make a fine paste of Castor oil and baking soda and apply 2 to 3 times daily, on the affected area. Duct tape is also used for removing skin tags. Just cover the skin tag with a piece of duct tape and leave it for 2 to 3 days. This will weaken the tag, which in turn, will fall off on its own. If the skin tag does not fall off, then reapply a piece of duct tape.

However, removing skin tags yourself may pose some health related risks. Some of the methods employed for skin tag removal at home, especially cutting the skin tags or tying them tightly with a thread, can cause infection and bleeding. Again, some other skin conditions like moles, seborrheic keratoses, warts and melanomas may be confused with skin tags. So before applying any of the home skin tag removal methods, it is advisable to consult a physician for distinguishing them from these other skin conditions. Also discuss whether is it safe to apply a specific type of home remedy for skin tag removal.