How to Remove Skin Tags: Best Home Remedies & Treatments (2025 Guide)

How to Get Rid of Skin Tags: Best Home Remedies for Skin Tag Removal

Skin tags are small, soft growths that often appear on areas where the skin folds, such as the neck, underarms, and eyelids. While harmless, they can be annoying or cosmetically unappealing. Many people look for effective ways to remove them at home or through medical treatments. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to remove skin tags at home naturally, the best skin tag removal products of 2025, and the pros and cons of skin tag removal surgery to help you choose the best method.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are benign growths made of collagen fibers and blood vessels. They are often found in high-friction areas and can appear due to genetics, obesity, or hormonal changes.

Common Causes of Skin Tags

Friction: Skin rubbing against skin or clothing.
Genetics: Some people are more prone to skin tags.
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, diabetes, and aging may trigger skin tags.
Insulin Resistance: Studies suggest a possible link between skin tags and insulin resistance.

How to Remove Skin Tags at Home Naturally

If you're looking for natural ways to remove skin tags, several home remedies may help. These methods work by drying out or irritating the skin tag so it falls off over time.

1. Tea Tree Oil

Apply a few drops of tea tree oil on a cotton swab.
Secure with a bandage and leave overnight.
Repeat daily for 1-2 weeks.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Does It Work?

Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar.
Apply to the skin tag and secure it with a bandage for 30 minutes.
Rinse and repeat daily for up to two weeks.

3. Banana Peel

Place a small piece of banana peel over the skin tag.
Cover with a bandage and leave overnight.
The enzymes may help dissolve the skin tag.

4. Garlic Paste

Crush fresh garlic and apply it to the skin tag.
Cover with a bandage overnight.
Garlic contains sulfur compounds that may break down skin tags.

5. Aloe Vera

Apply fresh aloe vera gel twice a day.
Aloe’s soothing properties can help reduce irritation.

Best Skin Tag Removal Products in 2025

Over-the-counter treatments provide fast and effective solutions. Below are the best-reviewed skin tag removal creams and devices for 2024.

1. Freeze Away® Skin Tag Remover

✅ Clinically proven cryotherapy treatment.
✅ Works in a single application.
✅ Used by dermatologists.

👉 Available on Amazon

2. Claritag Advanced Skin Tag Remover

✅ FDA-cleared device.
✅ Painless freezing treatment.
✅ Works in 7-14 days.

👉 Available on Amazon

3. SkinPro Skin Tag Remover

✅ Fast-acting formula.
✅ Contains salicylic acid.
✅ Dries out skin tags quickly.

👉 Available on Amazon & Walgreens.

Skin Tag Removal Cream That Works Fast

If you prefer a non-surgical method, topical creams are a great alternative. These creams break down skin tags by dehydrating the cells.

Popular Choices:

TagBand Skin Tag Remover (Silicone bands that cut off blood supply).
Compound W Freeze Off (Cryotherapy at home).
Revitol Skin Tag Remover (Natural extracts for gentle removal).

Skin Tag Removal Cost Near Me

The cost of professional skin tag removal varies based on the method used:

Cryotherapy (Freezing): $100–$200 per session.
Electrosurgery (Burning): $150–$300.
Excision (Cutting): $200–$500.
Laser Treatment: $250–$700.

Pro Tip: Many dermatologists offer discounts for multiple skin tag removals in one session.

How to Prevent Skin Tags from Growing

While not all skin tags can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce their occurrence.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight increases friction in skin folds, promoting skin tag formation.

2. Keep Skin Dry

Apply baby powder or cornstarch to high-friction areas to reduce moisture buildup.

3. Control Blood Sugar Levels

High insulin levels are linked to increased skin tags, so monitoring your diet can help.

4. Avoid Tight Clothing

Loose clothing reduces skin friction, lowering the risk of skin tags.

Skin Tag vs Mole: How to Tell the Difference

Skin tags and moles may look similar, but they have distinct characteristics:

Feature	Skin Tag	Mole
Color	Flesh-colored	Brown/black
Texture	Soft, hangs off the skin	Flat or raised
Size	Small, 1-5mm	Can be larger
Cause	Friction	Sun exposure/genetics
Removal	Easy to remove	Needs medical evaluation

⚠️ If a mole changes in shape, size, or color, see a dermatologist for a cancer screening.

Skin Tag Removal Patches That Work

Skin tag patches contain medicated ingredients to break down skin cells over time.

Top Picks:

Ariella Skin Tag Remover Patch (Salicylic acid).
SkinPro Skin Tag Patches (Fast-acting formula).
Wart & Mole Vanish (Natural extracts).

📌 Patches should be applied daily for best results.

Are Skin Tags a Sign of Diabetes?

Skin tags are not necessarily a sign of diabetes, but multiple skin tags may indicate insulin resistance.

When to See a Doctor:

You develop numerous skin tags suddenly.
They appear around the neck, underarms, or eyelids (common in diabetes patients).
You have other diabetes symptoms like fatigue, excessive thirst, or slow wound healing.

If you’re concerned, consult a doctor for a blood sugar test.

Skin Tag Removal Surgery: Pros and Cons

Method	Pros	Cons
Cryotherapy	Quick, painless	Mild irritation
Electrosurgery	Instant results	Requires numbing
Excision	Permanent removal	Slight scarring
Laser Therapy	No stitches	Expensive

👉 Best for: Large, stubborn, or infected skin tags.

FAQs About Skin Tag Removal

1. What is the fastest home remedy to remove skin tags?

The fastest home remedy for skin tag removal is apple cider vinegar (ACV). Here’s how to use it:

1. Soak a cotton ball in ACV.

2. Apply it directly to the skin tag and secure it with a bandage.

3. Leave it on for 2-3 hours, then rinse the area.

4. Repeat daily until the skin tag dries up and falls off (usually within 1-2 weeks).

2. Does anything dissolve skin tags?

Yes, certain natural remedies can help dissolve skin tags over time. These include:

- Tea tree oil: Known for its antiviral and antifungal properties, it can dry out skin tags.

- Apple cider vinegar: Its acidic nature breaks down the tissue of the skin tag.

- Banana peel: The enzymes in banana peels can help dissolve skin tags when applied regularly.

3. Can Colgate remove skin tags?

There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Colgate toothpaste can remove skin tags. While some people believe that the ingredients in toothpaste (e.g., baking soda, hydrogen peroxide) can dry out skin tags, this method is not recommended. It may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

4. Does tea tree oil really remove skin tags?

Yes, tea tree oil is an effective natural remedy for skin tag removal. It works by drying out the skin tag and reducing its blood supply. To use:

1. Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil) in a 1:1 ratio.

2. Apply the mixture to the skin tag using a cotton swab.

3. Repeat 2-3 times daily until the skin tag falls off (usually within 2-4 weeks).

5. What essential oil makes skin tags fall off?

The best essential oils for skin tag removal are:

- Tea tree oil: Dries out skin tags and has antimicrobial properties.

- Oregano oil: Contains compounds that may shrink skin tags.

- Frankincense oil: Promotes skin healing and may help remove skin tags.

Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin to avoid irritation.

6. Can you put tea tree oil directly on your skin?

No, you should never apply tea tree oil directly to your skin as it can cause irritation, redness, or burns. Always dilute it with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil, olive oil) in a 1:1 ratio before use. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for allergic reactions.

7. How long does it take for tea tree oil to remove skin tags?

When used consistently, tea tree oil can remove skin tags within 2-4 weeks. Results may vary depending on the size and location of the skin tag.

8. Are there any risks to removing skin tags at home?

Yes, home remedies for skin tag removal carry some risks, including:

- Infection: If the area is not kept clean.

- Scarring: Improper removal can lead to scarring or skin damage.

- Irritation: Some remedies (e.g., apple cider vinegar, essential oils) can cause skin irritation.

If you’re unsure or have sensitive skin, consult a dermatologist for safe removal options.

9. Can skin tags be removed permanently?

Yes, skin tags can be removed permanently through:

- Professional methods: Cryotherapy, cauterization, or surgical removal.

- Home remedies: Consistent use of natural remedies like tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar.

However, new skin tags may form in the same area if the underlying cause (e.g., friction, hormonal changes) is not addressed.

10. When should I see a doctor for skin tag removal?

You should consult a doctor if:

- The skin tag is large, painful, or bleeding.

- You’re unsure whether the growth is a skin tag or something more serious (e.g., a mole or wart).

- Home remedies have not worked after several weeks.

11. Can skin tags be prevented?

While skin tags cannot always be prevented, you can reduce the risk by:

- Maintaining a healthy weight to minimize skin folds and friction.

- Keeping the skin clean and dry.

- Avoiding tight clothing that causes friction.

12. Are skin tags a sign of a health problem?

In most cases, skin tags are harmless and not a sign of a health problem. However, they may be associated with:

- Insulin resistance or diabetes.

- Hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy).

- Obesity or metabolic syndrome.

If you notice a sudden increase in skin tags, consult a healthcare professional.

13. Can I cut off a skin tag myself?

Cutting off a skin tag at home is not recommended. It can lead to:

- Bleeding: Skin tags have blood vessels, and improper removal can cause excessive bleeding.

- Infection: Using non-sterile tools can introduce bacteria.

- Scarring: Improper removal may result in permanent scarring.

Always seek professional help for safe removal.

14. Do skin tags grow back after removal?

Skin tags do not usually grow back after removal. However, new skin tags may form in the same area if the underlying cause (e.g., friction, hormonal changes) persists.

15. What is the cost of professional skin tag removal?

The cost of professional skin tag removal varies depending on the method and location. On average:

- Cryotherapy: $100–$300 per session.

- Cauterization: $150–$400 per session.

- Surgical removal: $200–$500 per session.

Check with your dermatologist or healthcare provider for exact pricing.

16. Can I use duct tape to remove skin tags?

While some people use duct tape to remove skin tags by cutting off their blood supply, this method is not scientifically proven and may cause skin irritation. It’s safer to use proven remedies like tea tree oil or consult a dermatologist.

17. Are skin tags contagious?

No, skin tags are not contagious. They are caused by friction, genetics, or hormonal changes and cannot be spread through contact.

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18. Can skin tags be cancerous?

Skin tags are benign and not cancerous. However, if you notice a growth that changes in size, color, or shape, consult a doctor to rule out skin cancer.

19. How do I know if it’s a skin tag or a wart?

- Skin tags: Soft, fleshy, and attached to the skin by a stalk.

- Warts: Rough, hard, and caused by the HPV virus.

If you’re unsure, consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis.

20. Can I use over-the-counter products to remove skin tags?

Yes, over-the-counter products like skin tag removal creams or patches can be effective. Look for products containing salicylic acid or other active ingredients. Always follow the instructions and perform a patch test before use.

Final Thoughts

Skin tags are harmless but can be removed for cosmetic reasons. Whether you opt for natural remedies, OTC treatments, or professional removal, this guide provides everything you need to make an informed decision.