Skin tags, also called skin tabs, an achrochordon, a fibroepithelial polyp, or a pendunculated fibroma, tend to occur in areas of friction and skin folding, such as the breasts, armpits, neck, groin, and eyelids. They are benign skin growths. A skin tag can easily be removed by a dermatologist by freezing, burning, or cutting off the affected area. It is recommended that you have a Doctor look at unusual skin growths to make sure they are not cancerous or infected.
As a massage therapist for 15 years, I have spoken with thousands of people about their skin. Some clients have shared with me at home methods they claim have removed their skin tags. In searching the internet, there are several at home techniques people have found useful for removing their skin tags. While no scientific studies could be found on these options, many people claim these to be useful at home methods. Here is a list:
DO NOT TRY THESE METHODS ON YOUR FACE OR WITH SENSITIVE SKIN WITHOUT SKIN PATCH TESTING FIRST. CONSULT A DOCTOR WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS.
Methods that have been used for skin tags
- DUCK TAPE: Cover the skin tag with duck tape for about a week. Once the duck tape starts to peel off on its own, remove it VERY gently. (This may cause skin irritation, avoid with sensitive skin.) Personally, I would be hesitant to try this one myself due to possible reactions to duck tape glue, skin ripping, and other skin possible skin damage. Read more at this link: Duck Tape and Skin Tags
- NAIL POLISH: Apply nail polish to the skin tag once a day for up to two weeks. (This may cause skin irritation.) I have actually used the nail polish method to remove chiggers. I did not get any skin irritation, but it is possible, especially for those with sensitive skin. Read more about this technique at this link: Livestrong and Using Nail Polish on Skin Tags
- APPLE CIDER VINEGAR: Apply apple cider vinegar with a cotton ball to the area 2 or 3 times a day for up to two weeks. Dilute with water if you have sensitive skin. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. Read about this method here: Apple Cider Vinegar for Skin Tags
- LEMON JUICE: Squeeze the juice of a lemon and apply onto affected area with a cotton ball 2 or 3 times a day. This will help decompose the skin tag. Avoid sun exposure and discontinue use if irritation occurs. Read more about this way of getting rid of skin tags at: Lemon for a Skin Tag
- TEA TREE OIL: Dilute tea tree oil to 5% with castor oil and apply with cotton ball to the area twice a day for up to two weeks. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. Here is a link with information on natural remedies for skin tags: Tea Tree and Other at Home Remedies for Skin Tags
Recipe
After doing some informal research, I made the recipe below. I have a few skin tags along my bra line and applied this recipe to my own skin. I was diligent for about a week and it removed a few of my tags. This recipe was cheap and easy to make, and a natural alternative to paying a dermatologist to remove the annoying skin growths.
Essential Oil and Vinegar Skin Tag Zapper Ingredients
- ½ ounce of castor oil
- ½ ounce of apple cider vinegar
- 10 drops of lemon essential oil
- 10 drops of tea tree essential oil
Essential Oil and Vinegar Skin Tag Zapper Instructions
First, mix the castor oil with the essential oils. Then add in the apple cider vinegar. Shake well. Apply a drop or two twice a day for up to two weeks onto the skin tag. Avoid sun exposure. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
By: Kathy Sadowski, MS in Aromatherapy, LMT, Registered Aromatherapist
4/11/18
