Almost everyone has experienced having these pesky skin tags that seem like they came out of nowhere. What is worse is that they do not only look ugly, but they can also be painful when tugged accidentally. If only the solution is just as simple as cutting it off, right?
If you’re wondering how to get rid of skin tags, then we’ve got you covered. First of all, know that you should never cut off a skin tag. Even though it feels like it’s not part of your skin, cutting it off will still be painful.
What Is a Skin Tag?
Skin tags are also called acrochordons in the medical community. These are flaps of tissue or small growths that tend to stick out from your skin. Usually, they have the same color as your skin but tend to be darker at times. They are relatively small, but they can also become bigger.
In general, they do not cause pain, but it can cause a bit of discomfort, especially when it comes into contact with your clothing or jewelry. What happens is that there will be a blood clot, and that is quite painful.
For some, their skin tags just automatically fall off through time, while for others, without medical treatment or home remedies, they just stay intact. What is important to note is that improper removal of the skin tag may lead to scarring. Therefore, if you plan to remove it on your own, you should use a method that can help heal the skin underneath the tag.
How to Get Rid of Skin Tags
These remedies are best for skin tags that do not hurt or does not cause any discomfort. Also, these are effective if the skin tag is not too large. In other cases, you might need to consult a dermatologist for proper removal.
Using a Skin Tag Removal Device
There are a lot of kits that you can purchase online for this method. Usually, it contains bands that cut off the blood flow from the skin and the skin tag.
In doing this, the skin cells will eventually die, and the skin tag will automatically fall off in approximately 10 days. Keep in mind, though, that the bands may not be for everyone, especially those who have rubber allergies.
Using a String
This is somehow related to the previous method, and it has the same logic, which is to cut off the blood flow to the skin tag. This is perfect for those who have rubber allergies.
You can also use dental floss with this. You just have to make sure that you clean the area before applying the string.
Just like the previous method, it should fall off on its known. In some cases, the string might not be as secure as a rubber band. Thus, you have to make sure to tighten the string every now and then.
Using a Skin Tag Removal Cream
These also come in many kits, but usually, it has the cream and the applicator. This one is very simple in that all you have to do is to follow the instructions in the kit on how often you should put the cream on the skin tag.
Before applying the cream, it is also best to clean and sanitize the area. However, this method takes longer to take effect. Usually, the skin tag will fall off after two to three weeks.
Using a Freezing Kit
This method somehow simulates what happens in your dermatologist’s office. This works by using cryotechnology, which is simply freezing the skin tag and letting it fall off. In some kits, you can freeze the tag and remove it directly.
Just keep in mind that when you are spraying, it should not come into contact with your skin. If this happens, you might feel pain as the product is extremely cold. Think of it like a minor case of frostbite.
Using Tea Tree Oil
You can put tea tree oil on a cotton ball and soak your skin tag with it. You can even secure it with a bandage. It is recommended to do this three times a day for 10 minutes for efficacy. For this one, the tag should come off after three weeks.
Using Apple Cider Vinegar
You can do the same process with apple cider vinegar as with the one for tea tree oil. Make sure that you soak the skin tag for at least 10 minutes for two to three times a day. Keep in mind that due to its acidic properties, you might experience skin irritation, so just be on top of that.
Using Iodine
For this one, it is best to use liquid iodine. What you can do is to rub petroleum jelly or coconut oil on the area. Then, use a cotton bud to get the iodine. Directly put it on the tag and spread it all over.
Let it dry and cover it up with a bandage. You can do this at least twice a day until the skin tag falls off.
Cutting
Now this one is strictly for doctors and professionals only. You should never do this by yourself as it may lead to a lot of pain and scarring. To those who have medium and large skin tags, it is best to go to a doctor and have them cut.
Usually, this is the last resort when your skin tag has a narrow base. For this method, surgical scissors are needed as well as other tools that can control the bleeding and ensure that the skin underneath will heal properly. Again, we cannot stress enough that only your doctor should do this.
Final Thoughts
Those are the easy home remedies that you can do when it comes to how to get rid of skin tags. Pretty simple, right? All you need are the right materials and a whole lot of patience.
Just like what we said, usually, skin tags fall off by themselves, so only employ these remedies if you feel like they have been there for a month or so.
