Skin tags are painless, noncancerous growths on the skin. The skin tags are most common on the chest and back. Skin tags are most commonly found on the posterior of the breasts, under the armpits, on the thighs, and on the palms. The painless growths are caused by a cell growth that occurs because of the normal growth of tissues and skin cells during the normal healing process of the skin.
Breast Skin Tags
Another skin tag that you may find in the same place as the first one is called a nipple textured skin tag. Nipple textured skin tags are not as common. These skin tags can be found anywhere on the chest. They may be small or large. They can range in color from cream or white to yellow or brown. Breast skin tags can be caused by different reasons. Breast cancer is one of the causes. Other reasons include using deodorant after shaving and wearing tight shirts. There is no known cause for nipple textured skin tags. They are called nipple textured skin tags because they are textured like the nipple itself.
As you can see, there are many skin tags that you may find on your body. While you might think that a single breast skin tag is harmless, remember that they are often considered benign, but they can actually increase the risk of cancer. The health risks of these tiny and often painless growths depend on where the growths are and where they appear on your body.
Maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and exercising regularly can help keep your skin healthy and well-conditioned.
Here is the list of home remedies for skin tags
Eggs
Eating eggs may help treat skin tags, according to a 2016 review of studies from the University of California.
Eggs contain three amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. This tripeptide can stimulate the cells that produce collagen, which is the main protein in the skin.
Dilute egg yolk, which is part of the yolk, may be a viable topical treatment for skin tags.
Almonds
Almonds and walnuts have a similar effect, and they may help with pigmentation. Almond extract can help darken pigmentation and walnuts contain antioxidants that help to fight oxidative stress.
Add a few walnuts or almonds to a salad or blend them into a dip. Or simply eat them as a snack.
Potato peel
The potato peel was made up of dehydrated tubers that were treated with vitamin A. This treatment, known as vitamizing, causes cell death and stops the proliferation of cells. So, it may be a viable and safe way to treat skin tags.
Lemon juice
The pith of a lemon contains a chemical called citral. This is an antioxidant that may help to treat skin tags by neutralizing the acid in the acidosa environment of skin tags.
Lemon juice can be used in its powder form to aid hydration and soften the skin. Apply a few teaspoons of lemon juice to the skin, massaging it into the skin, and leave it on for 30 minutes.
Alternatively, a chemical peel can be applied to the area twice a day to soften the skin and help the chemicals penetrate.
Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera can soothe a sunburn, relieve muscle aches, and soothe inflammation.
Although doctors are not convinced that aloe vera can treat skin tags, it is often recommended for people who suffer from conditions that cause intense skin sensitivity, such as:
- excessive sun exposure
- allergic reactions
- other skin conditions, such as eczema
- one study found that applying aloe vera gel to a skin tag in the lab reduced its size.
Sesame oil
Researchers from Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine found that applying this oil to the skin of a mouse with cancer decreased its growth rate and prevented it from spreading to other parts of the body.
Steep it
Steeping the skin tags in a mix of baking soda and apple cider vinegar can help to bind the tissues together and eliminate the acidity that may have been causing them to regrow.
Take about 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and mix it with 1 teaspoon of baking soda and a quarter cup of water.
Soak a clean gauze pad in the mixture and press it to the skin tags. Leave the area for 30 minutes and then remove the pad.
Use aspirin
Another trick to reduce acidity and prevent skin tags from regrowing is to use an aspirin cream. Some studies show that it helps reduce swelling.
However, aspirin can cause bruising or bleeding if used on large areas of skin. There is also a risk of overdosing, so it is best to discuss this treatment with a doctor before trying it.
The best way to use aspirin is to apply an aspirin-infused cream to the affected area. This cream should not be used for more than 5 days at a time
Ice
Ice can help to soothe the pain of a sunburn and also help with swelling and inflammation. A person can apply an ice pack to the affected area. A person can apply an ice pack to the affected area.
It is best to use ice cubes, frozen peas, or frozen fruit to apply to the skin tag.
If applying these items to the skin of a larger area, a person should hold the items on for up to 10 minutes. This will help reduce swelling.
Scalp massage
A scalp massage can help to reduce inflammation and reduce the inflammation of the skin tag.
Scalp massage should be done after cooling the area down with an ice pack. A person can gently massage the scalp with a towel to increase blood flow.
If the skin tag is on the scalp, a person can also use scalp massage pads.
Heat
Heat from a heating pad or electric blanket can reduce swelling and reduce pain in a skin tag. It can also help dry out the area.
A person can apply a heating pad or electric blanket to the affected area. Or, they can gently apply it to the skin tag, leaving it on for a few minutes.
A person should be sure to remove the heating pad or blanket as soon as the skin tag stops feeling warm to prevent any skin damage.
Compression
When applying compression to a skin tag, a person can try two different methods. The first method is to wrap the skin tag with an elastic bandage or bandage.
A second method of compression involves a looser bandage. This bandage is wrapped around the body like a sling and then secured by tying a knot at the back.
This method of compression is not as effective at reducing inflammation and may cause the skin tag to become pinched.
Other home remedies
Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can help prevent the skin tag from falling off. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can help prevent the skin tag from falling off.
There are several other home remedies that people can try for managing a skin tag. These include:
Cucumbers
Studies have shown that cucumber slices can help reduce inflammation and can be used as a home remedy for reducing the appearance of skin tags.
One study found that cucumber slices reduced the growth rate of skin tags in mice. However, the slices also caused swelling and inflammation in the skin.
Cucumbers also contain flavonoids and carbohydrates that may help to reduce swelling.
Salicylic acid
Another home remedy that some people use is salicylic acid. This home remedy is more effective for healing skin and reduce inflammation than cold compresses or salicylic acid. Studies have shown that salicylic acid can prevent the skin tag from bleeding.
However, it may cause bruising when applied to a large area of the body.
While the skin tag should stop bleeding after several days of use, it is possible for it to still bruise a few days after applying the remedy.
Glycerin
A person can use glycerin to relieve itching and inflammation caused by skin tags. Glycerin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe a person’s skin.
A study from 1989 found that applying 1 milligram of glycerin to the affected skin on a daily basis for 2 weeks reduced the number of skin tags, but also caused pain and discomfort in a small number of the study participants.
However, glycerin is safe and most people should be able to tolerate a small amount of it.
More research needs to be done to prove whether or not the treatment is as effective for humans as it is in mice.
Omega-3 supplements
Research suggests that taking omega-3 supplements may reduce the size of skin tags. Researchers have found that omega-3 supplements significantly reduce skin tag volume in rats, mice, and humans. Research on the topic is still in its early stages, and there is no data available on whether omega-3 supplements are effective in humans.
Tea tree oil
According to research, tea tree oil may be an effective way to prevent skin tags from returning after they have been removed.
People can apply tea tree oil to the affected area to prevent recurrence. They can also use tea tree oil to help clean the skin after removal of the skin tag.
To use tea tree oil on a skin tag, use the tip of a cotton swab. Scrub a few drops of oil on a cotton swab. Brush off any excess oil on the skin tag. Rub the cotton swab on the skin tag, taking care to apply the oil evenly. Leave the cotton swab on the skin tag for 5–10 minutes, then wash the cotton swab off in the shower.
Tea tree oil also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help to relieve itchiness and irritation caused by skin tags.
Other home remedies
Facial ultrasound is another method that some people use to remove skin tags. Facial ultrasound uses ultrasound technology to locate skin tags.
It can also be a safer option than cutting skin tags out or treating them with silver nitrate.
Many people use this method to remove skin tags near the hair line. However, using it on the scalp can cause skin damage.
In a small number of people, the procedure can lead to allergic reactions or a sepsis-like reaction, also known as toxic epidermal necrolysis. The infection typically resolves within 2 weeks.
Use of lasers
Laser treatment can remove skin tags that are on the outside of the body, but the procedure is more invasive. Laser treatment can remove skin tags that are on the outside of the body, but the procedure is more invasive.
For some people, lasers are the most effective home remedy for removing skin tags.
However, laser treatment can damage the skin and may increase the risk of scarring if it is done on the scalp, face, or groin.
Skin tags are often unsightly, but they usually do not cause other symptoms, such as itching. They also usually do not need to be removed.
Using the following steps may help prevent skin tags from forming:
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains may help to prevent skin tags and improve the skin’s overall health.
- Limit exposure to sunlight. Sunburns can worsen skin conditions, such as skin tags.
- Lifestyle measures can also help prevent skin tags from forming, such as:
- Maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight is a risk factor for skin tags.
- Getting enough sleep. People who sleep less than 7 hours a night are more likely to develop skin tags.
- Taking regular breaks from electronics. While sitting for long periods of time, watch television instead of reading, texting, or looking at the computer.
- Try not to stare at the skin. People tend to look down or squint if they are viewing their own skin and may be missing spots.
- Wearing sunscreen. Sun exposure causes skin tags and premature aging.
- Avoiding factors that cause allergic reactions. According to research, people with eczema are more likely to develop skin tags.
Takeaway
Skin tags do not cause any serious health issues, and they tend to go away on their own. However, some people may experience discomfort or itching after removal.
Depending on the location of the skin tag, the size of the area that needs to be treated, and the cause of the skin tag, it may be necessary to see a dermatologist or skin specialist for removal.
Many people find that home remedies, such as applying lavender oil or tea tree oil, help with symptoms.
Sirisha B