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Skin tags, medically called acrochordons, are small harmless formations on the skin that arise from an accumulation of blood vessels, collagen and capillaries. They most commonly appear on the neck, under the arms, on the eyelids, on the hands or under the breasts. Although they do not pose a serious health risk, for many people they are an unpleasant aesthetic problem.
Most patients have these growths removed by a dermatologist – with a laser, liquid nitrogen or by surgery. However, if you do not want to undergo invasive methods, there are natural approaches that can help remove the growths gently right at home.
1. Tea tree oil (tea tree oil)
Tea tree oil is one of the strongest natural antiseptics. It has disinfectant and drying effects, which allow it to gradually dry out even small skin tags. Apply 2–3 drops of the oil to a cotton pad moistened with water and gently massage the growth in circular motions for several minutes. Repeat the procedure daily for at least a week.
2. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is known for its antibacterial and acidic properties. Simply soak a cotton pad in the vinegar and apply it to the growth for a few minutes. The vinegar gradually breaks down the tissue of the growth, which will fall off on its own.
3. Onion juice
Onion has strong disinfectant properties. Simply soak it in salt overnight and in the morning squeeze out the juice. Apply this directly to the growths for 10–12 days. The result is that they often fall off on their own.
4. Pineapple juice
Pineapple juice contains enzymes that help break down skin tissue. Apply it several times a day directly to the growth and leave it on without rinsing. Effects appear in about 10 days. This method also works on warts and some moles.
5. Castor oil and baking soda
Mix castor oil with baking soda in a 1:1 ratio to create a thick paste. Apply it daily to the growths for 2–4 weeks. The combination has drying effects and helps gradually remove the growths.
6. Banana peel
Banana peel is rich in natural enzymes and antioxidants. Place a piece of peel with the inner side on the growth, secure it with a plaster and leave it on overnight. Repeat every evening until the growth disappears.
7. Celandine
Celandine contains a yellow sap that has strong effects against warts and growths. Simply apply a drop of the liquid directly to the affected area each day until the growths fall off on their own. Celandine is also traditionally used to remove warts.
Final tips
If you are bothered by skin tags, you don’t have to rush to the doctor. Natural methods can be effective, inexpensive and gentle. It’s important to proceed regularly and be patient. If the growths do not improve, enlarge or change color, always consult a dermatologist.
