How to Remove Skin Tags Naturally

Have you ever noticed a small, soft piece of skin hanging from your neck, armpit, or eyelid? That’s likely a skin tag—a benign growth that, while harmless, can be annoying and sometimes embarrassing. Many people spend hundreds on dermatologist visits for removal, but what if you could address this issue overnight using natural remedies from your kitchen? With rising healthcare costs, natural solutions have become increasingly popular for minor skin concerns like these. This article will explore safe methods to remove skin tags naturally.

What are Skin Tags: What They Are and Why They Form

Skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly pigmented growths that protrude from the skin. They are made up of loose collagen fibers and blood vessels that become trapped inside thicker pieces of skin. Skin tags are very common, and they typically appear in areas where the skin folds or rubs against itself.

Skin tags tend to occur more frequently:

• In middle-aged and older adults
• During pregnancy, when hormone levels change
• In overweight individuals with more skin folds
• In people with type 2 diabetes
• In those with a family history of skin tags

Why Do Skin Tags Form?

There are a few reasons why skin tags may develop:

• Friction and Skin Rubbing: Skin tags often form in areas where the skin rubs against itself or against clothing, such as the neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts. The repeated friction and irritation can cause the skin to develop these small growths.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy or with certain medical conditions like diabetes, may increase the risk of developing skin tags.
• Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing skin tags due to genetic factors that make their skin more susceptible to these growths.
• Obesity: People who are overweight or obese may be more likely to develop skin tags due to the increased skin friction and folds.

Skin tags are generally harmless and do not require any treatment unless they become irritated, bleed, or are cosmetically undesirable. In such cases, they can be removed by a healthcare provider through cryotherapy (freezing), ligation (tying off the base), or surgical excision.

How to Prepare for Natural Skin Tag Removal?

Follow these steps before applying any remedy:

1. Cleanse the area – Wash the skin tag and the surrounding area with mild soap and warm water
2. Dry thoroughly – Pat the area dry with a clean towel
3. Sterilize – Wipe the skin tag and surrounding area with an alcohol wipe
4. Perform a patch test – Apply a small amount of your chosen remedy on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to check for adverse reactions

“Proper preparation is half the battle when it comes to successful natural skin tag removal. Clean skin minimizes infection risk, while patch testing helps prevent allergic reactions.” – Natural Skincare Association, 2025

12 Natural Methods to Remove Skin Tags

Now, let’s explore the most effective natural remedies that many people report can work in just one night when applied correctly.

Method 1: Apple Cider Vinegar Treatment

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is perhaps the most popular natural remedy for skin tags due to its accessibility and the acidic properties that may break down the tissue of the skin tag.

What you’ll need:

• Organic apple cider vinegar (with “the mother”)
• Cotton balls or pads
• Small bandage or medical tape
• Petroleum jelly

How to apply:

1. Cleanse the area around the skin tag with mild soap and water, then pat dry.
2. Apply petroleum jelly around (not on) the skin tag to protect the surrounding healthy skin.
3. Soak a small cotton ball in apple cider vinegar until saturated but not dripping.
4. Place the soaked cotton directly on the skin tag.
5. Secure with a bandage and leave overnight (or for at least 8 hours).
6. Remove in the morning and gently wash the area.
7. Repeat nightly until the skin tag darkens, dries out, and falls off (typically 1-2 weeks).

What to expect: After the first overnight application, you may notice the skin tag turning darker—this suggests the treatment is working. Some people report complete removal within 3-7 days, though larger tags may take longer.

Caution: ACV can cause skin irritation or mild chemical burns in some individuals. If you experience significant discomfort, discontinue use immediately.

Method 2: Tea Tree Oil Application

Tea tree oil has natural antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that may help dry out skin tags when applied consistently.

What you’ll need:

• Pure tea tree oil (100% therapeutic grade)
• Cotton swab or Q-tip
• Bandage (optional)

How to apply:

1. Wash the affected area with warm water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly.
2. Dip a cotton swab in clean water and squeeze out excess moisture.
3. Add 2-3 drops of tea tree oil to the damp cotton swab.
4. Gently massage the oil onto the skin tag in circular motions.
5. Repeat this application 3 times daily, with one application before bedtime.
6. For overnight treatment, apply before bed and cover with a bandage.

What to expect: Most users report that the skin tag may start to dry out within 3-4 days of consistent application, with complete removal potentially taking 2-4 weeks. While not truly an “overnight” solution, this method is gentle and generally well-tolerated.

Caution: Some people may experience skin sensitivity to tea tree oil. Always do a patch test first and dilute with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil if sensitivity occurs.

Method 3: Banana Peel Treatment

This may sound unusual, but many people report success using the inside of a banana peel to remove skin tags due to its enzymatic properties.

What you’ll need:

• Ripe banana
• Small piece of banana peel (about 1 inch square)
• Medical tape or bandage

How to apply:

1. Cut a small square of banana peel.
2. Place the inside (white part) of the peel against the skin tag.
3. Secure with medical tape and leave overnight.
4. Remove in the morning and wash the area.
5. Repeat nightly until the skin tag diminishes and falls off.

What to expect: This gentle method typically takes 1-2 weeks of consistent nightly application. Some users report that the skin tag gradually shrinks and eventually disappears.

Method 4: Garlic Treatment

Garlic contains enzymes that may help break down the skin tag tissue when applied topically.

What you’ll need:

• Fresh garlic clove
• Bandage
• Petroleum jelly

How to apply:

1. Apply petroleum jelly around (not on) the skin tag to protect the surrounding skin.
2. Crush a fresh garlic clove to create a paste.
3. Apply the garlic paste directly to the skin tag.
4. Cover with a bandage and leave overnight.
5. Remove in the morning and rinse the area thoroughly.

What to expect: Some users report that skin tags may show signs of shrinking after just one overnight application, with complete removal possibly occurring within a week of nightly treatments.

Caution: Garlic can cause skin irritation or burns in some individuals. If you experience significant discomfort, discontinue use immediately.

Method 5: Vitamin E Oil Method

Vitamin E is known for its skin-healing properties and may help with skin tag removal when applied consistently.

What you’ll need:

• Vitamin E capsules or pure Vitamin E oil
• Cotton swab
• Bandage (optional)

How to apply:

1. Cleanse the skin tag and the surrounding area.
2. If using capsules, puncture one with a clean needle and squeeze out the oil.
3. Apply the vitamin E oil directly to the skin tag using a cotton swab.
4. Massage gently for 2-3 minutes.
5. For overnight treatment, apply before bed and optionally cover with a bandage.
6. Repeat daily for several weeks.

What to expect: This gentle method may take 3-4 weeks of consistent application, making it less suitable for those seeking rapid removal. However, it’s one of the gentlest methods with minimal risk of irritation.

Method 6: The Freezing Method with Ice

This home version of cryotherapy attempts to freeze the skin tag, causing it to fall off. While not as effective as professional cryotherapy, some report success with this method.

What you’ll need:

• Ice cube
• Cotton swab or Q-tip
• Table salt (optional)

How to apply:

1. Optionally, dampen a cotton swab and dip it in table salt (this enhances the freezing effect).
2. Press the ice cube firmly against the skin tag for 1-2 minutes until the area numbs.
3. Remove and allow the area to warm naturally.
4. Repeat this process 2-3 times in one session.
5. Do this procedure before bed for the overnight effect.

What to expect: Multiple applications over several days are typically needed. Some report the skin tag turning darker after treatment, eventually falling off within a week.

Caution: Be careful not to hold ice against your skin for too long, as this can cause frostbite or cold burns.

Method 7: Onion Juice Treatment

The acidic nature of onions may help break down the skin tag tissue over time.

What you’ll need:

• Fresh onion
• Salt
• Bowl
• Cotton ball
• Bandage

How to apply:

1. Cut a slice of fresh onion and sprinkle it with salt.
2. Leave it overnight in a sealed container to extract the juice.
3. The following night, apply the collected onion juice directly to your skin tag.
4. Cover with a bandage and leave overnight.
5. Rinse in the morning and repeat for 10-12 nights.

What to expect: This method typically takes 1-2 weeks of consistent application before results appear.

Method 8: Baking Soda and Castor Oil Paste

This alkaline mixture may help dry out the skin tag over time.

What you’ll need:

• Baking soda
• Castor oil
• Cotton swab
• Bandage

How to apply:

1. Mix equal parts baking soda and castor oil to form a thick paste.
2. Apply the paste directly to the skin tag.
3. Cover with a bandage and leave overnight.
4. Wash off in the morning and repeat nightly until the skin tag falls off.

What to expect: Users typically report results within 1-2 weeks of consistent nightly application.

Method 9: Aloe Vera Method

Aloe vera has healing properties and may help with removing skin tags gently.

What you’ll need:

• Fresh aloe vera leaf or pure aloe vera gel
• Bandage (optional)

How to apply:

1. Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf or use pure store-bought gel.
2. Apply directly to the skin tag.
3. Allow to dry, then apply another layer.
4. For overnight treatment, apply before bed and optionally cover with a bandage.
5. Wash off in the morning and repeat daily.

What to expect: This gentle method may take several weeks to show results, but it is unlikely to cause irritation.

Method 10: Dental Floss or String Method

This technique cuts off blood flow to the skin tag, causing it to die and fall off.

What you’ll need:

• Clean, unwaxed dental floss or thin string
• Antiseptic solution
• Small scissors (sterilized with alcohol)

How to apply:

1. Clean the skin tag and the surrounding area with an antiseptic.
2. Tie the dental floss or string tightly around the base of the skin tag where it connects to your skin.
3. Leave overnight and throughout the following days.
4. The skin tag should gradually darken and fall off as its blood supply is cut off.

What to expect: This method can work within 3-7 days, with the skin tag typically darkening within 24 hours.

Caution: This method carries a higher risk of infection and shouldn’t be used on large skin tags or sensitive areas. Never cut the skin tag yourself—let it fall off naturally.

Method 11: Iodine Application

Iodine may help dry out the tissue of the skin tag, causing it to fall off eventually.

What you’ll need:

• Liquid iodine (2% solution)
• Petroleum jelly
• Cotton swab
• Bandage

How to apply:

1. Apply petroleum jelly around (not on) the skin tag to protect the surrounding skin.
2. Using a cotton swab, apply iodine directly to the skin tag.
3. Allow to dry and cover with a bandage overnight.
4. Wash the area in the morning and repeat daily until the skin tag falls off.

What to expect: It typically takes 1-2 weeks of daily application to see results.

Caution: Never ingest iodine, and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Method 12: Lemon Juice Method

The citric acid in lemon juice may help break down the excess skin cells in the tag.

What you’ll need:

• Fresh lemon
• Cotton ball
• Bandage

How to apply:

1. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto a cotton ball.
2. Apply directly to the skin tag.
3. Cover with a bandage and leave overnight.
4. Wash off in the morning and repeat nightly.

What to expect: With consistent application, some users report results within 1-2 weeks.

Caution: Lemon juice can cause photosensitivity, so avoid sun exposure on the treated area and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Maximizing Overnight Effectiveness: Tips and Tricks

To increase your chances of successful overnight removal, consider these expert tips:

1. Best Time to Apply Treatments

For optimal results:

• Apply treatments 30-60 minutes before bedtime
• Ensure the remedy stays in place for at least 6-8 hours
• Consider applying treatments during a weekend when you can rest more

2. Enhancing Absorption and Effectiveness

Try these techniques to improve remedy effectiveness:

• Gentle exfoliation – Before applying any remedy, gently exfoliate the area around the skin tag (not the tag itself) to remove dead skin cells and improve absorption
• Warm compress – Apply a warm (not hot) compress to the area for 5 minutes before treatment to increase blood flow
• Consistent application – For stubborn skin tags, consistent nightly application yields better results than sporadic treatment

3. Post-Treatment Care

After removing the overnight treatment:

• Gentle cleansing – Wash the area with mild soap and lukewarm water
• Soothing application – Apply aloe vera gel to soothe any irritation
• Protection – Keep the area clean and dry throughout the day
• Monitoring – Watch for signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus)

Combining Methods for Enhanced Results

While each method can be effective on its own, some people report faster results by combining compatible approaches.

Effective Combinations

Consider these powerful combinations:

1. ACV + Tea Tree Oil
   • Mix equal parts and apply as directed
   • The combined acids and antimicrobial properties work synergistically
2. Vitamin E + Banana Peel
   • Apply Vitamin E oil first, then secure the banana peel over it
   • This combines healing properties with enzymatic action
3. Baking Soda Paste + Garlic
   • Apply a baking soda paste, then a thin layer of crushed garlic
   • The abrasive and enzymatic properties work together

Rotation Method

Another approach is to rotate methods every other night:

1. Use ACV on night one
2. Use tea tree oil on night two
3. Return to ACV on night three
4. Continue alternating

This approach can prevent skin irritation while still providing effective treatment.

Safety Precautions and Potential Side Effects

While natural remedies are generally safe, they’re not without risks. Here’s what to watch for:

Common Side Effects

Be aware of these potential reactions:

• Mild irritation – Redness or slight burning sensation
• Skin discoloration – Temporary lightening or darkening of the treated area
• Sensitivity – Increased sensitivity to touch or sunlight
• Minor scabbing – Small scab formation where the tag was attached

When to Stop Treatment

Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Severe pain or burning
• Spreading redness beyond the application area
• Swelling or blistering
• Signs of infection (increased warmth, pus, or red streaks)
• Allergic reaction (hives, itching, or difficulty breathing)

⚠️ Important: If you’re unsure whether a growth is a skin tag or something else (like a mole or wart), always consult a healthcare professional before attempting home removal.

Preventing Future Skin Tags Naturally

While you can’t completely prevent skin tags, especially if you’re genetically predisposed to them, you can reduce their occurrence with these natural approaches:

1. Dietary Modifications

Consider these dietary changes:

• Reduce refined carbohydrates – High insulin levels may contribute to skin tag formation
• Increase antioxidant-rich foods – Berries, leafy greens, and colorful vegetables support skin health
• Stay hydrated – Proper hydration supports overall skin function
• Consider zinc-rich foods – Pumpkin seeds, beef, and lentils support skin health

2. Lifestyle Adjustments

These habits may help prevent future skin tags:

• Maintain a healthy weight – Reduces skin folds where friction occurs
• Wear loose clothing – Minimizes skin friction in susceptible areas
• Keep skin dry – Particularly in areas prone to moisture like neck folds and armpits
• Exfoliate regularly – Gentle exfoliation helps prevent dead skin buildup

3. Topical Preventative Measures

Some people report success with these preventative applications:

• Tea tree oil dilution – Weekly application to prone areas
• Aloe vera gel – Daily application to keep skin healthy
• Witch hazel – Use as a toner in areas prone to skin tags

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional？

While this article focuses on natural removal methods, it’s crucial to know when professional medical intervention is necessary.

Seek medical advice if your skin tag:

• It is very large (larger than 5mm)
• Bleeds easily or is painful
• Changes color, size, or shape
• It is located in a highly sensitive area (like near the eyes)
• Appears suddenly in large numbers

⚠️ Important Warning: Never attempt to remove skin tags from eyelids or genital areas at home. These sensitive locations require professional care to avoid injury or infection.

When Natural Remedies May Be Appropriate？

Natural remedies may be suitable when skin tags are:

• Small to medium-sized
• Located in accessible areas
• Not causing pain or discomfort
• Few in number
• Stable in appearance

Remember that even with natural remedies, proper hygiene and caution are essential to avoid infection or skin irritation.

FAQs

1. Are natural methods as effective as medical procedures?

Natural methods can be effective for small to medium-sized skin tags, but typically take longer than medical procedures. Professional removal provides immediate results, while natural methods may require days or weeks of consistent application.

2. Can all skin tags be removed overnight?

No, not all skin tags will respond to overnight treatment. Small, thin skin tags have the best chance of responding quickly. Larger or thicker skin tags typically require multiple applications over several days or weeks.

3. Is it normal for skin tags to turn black during treatment?

Yes, skin tags often darken to red, purple, or black during successful treatment. This indicates that blood flow to the tag is being restricted, which is part of the removal process.

4. Will removing skin tags at home leave scars?

When done properly, natural skin tag removal methods typically leave minimal or no scarring. However, picking at the skin tag during the process or removing it forcibly increases scarring risk.

5. Can I use these methods on children or during pregnancy?

It’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using any natural remedies on children or during pregnancy. Some essential oils and acids may not be appropriate for these groups.