Get Rid of Skin Tags Naturally—Here’s How Experts Do It

Ever noticed those tiny, soft bumps hanging off your skin—especially around your neck, underarms, or eyelids—and wondered what they are? Those little flaps are called skin tags, and while they’re totally harmless, they can be pretty annoying. Whether they catch on clothing or just make you feel self-conscious, the good news is you don’t have to live with them forever. Many experts agree: there are safe, natural ways to remove skin tags without harsh chemicals or expensive treatments.

What Causes Skin Tags in the First Place?

Before trying to remove them, it helps to know why get rid of skin tags appear in the first place. Skin tags usually form in places where your skin folds or rubs together—think neck, groin, eyelids, and armpits. Friction from clothing or jewelry, genetics, and hormonal changes all play a role.

Experts also point to insulin resistance, weight gain, and age as contributing factors. When your body’s collagen and blood vessels get trapped inside thicker pieces of skin, they form a tag. Over time, they may darken in color but usually stay painless and soft.

In short, anyone can develop skin tags. They’re not contagious, and they don’t turn into anything dangerous. But if you find them irritating or unsightly, there are safe, natural ways to make them disappear.

Natural Remedies Dermatologists Don’t Mind You Trying

You don’t always need fancy medical tools or expensive creams to deal with skin tags. Some of the most effective treatments come straight from your kitchen or bathroom cabinet.

Apple Cider Vinegar:
This pantry staple is a favorite among natural skincare enthusiasts. Soak a small cotton ball in apple cider vinegar, apply it to the skin tag, and cover it with a bandage for about 15 minutes a day. The acidity helps dry out the tag until it eventually falls off. Just be careful around sensitive areas, especially the eyes.

Tea Tree Oil:
Known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, tea tree oil is a gentle option that works over time. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil), dab it on the skin tag, and cover it. After several days of consistent use, the tag may start to shrink.

Banana Peel:
It might sound strange, but the inside of a banana peel contains enzymes and antioxidants that can help dry out the tag. Cut a small piece, place it over the area, and secure it with medical tape overnight. Within a week or two, you might notice a difference.

These natural remedies are slow but safe. If you’re patient and consistent, they can work surprisingly well without scarring or irritation.

What Experts Recommend for Safe Removal

Dermatologists emphasize one thing: don’t cut or twist skin tags yourself. It might be tempting, but it can lead to infection or scarring. Instead, focus on methods that dry out the tag naturally.

Experts recommend using a topical approach—like the apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil routine—for small to medium-sized tags. For larger ones, professional treatments like cryotherapy (freezing), cauterization (burning), or ligation (cutting off blood supply) may be more effective.

If you’re going the natural route, consistency is key. Applying your chosen remedy daily for several weeks gives the skin enough time to respond. And always keep the area clean, dry, and protected to prevent irritation.

Dermatologists also suggest adding gentle exfoliation to your skincare routine. Removing dead skin cells helps your natural remedy penetrate deeper, making it more effective. Think of it as helping your skin heal from the inside out.

Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Skin Tags from Coming Back

Even after you remove them, skin tags can return—especially if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. That’s why experts recommend making small lifestyle changes to reduce friction and keep your skin healthy.

Wearing loose-fitting clothing, keeping your skin dry, and avoiding heavy jewelry that rubs against your neck can help prevent new tags. Maintaining a healthy weight also reduces the chance of friction-related tags forming in folds of skin.

Adding foods rich in zinc, vitamin E, and antioxidants supports skin repair and regeneration. Drinking enough water and managing blood sugar levels can also make a difference since insulin resistance is often linked to frequent skin tag growth.

Finally, regular skincare matters. Using gentle cleansers, moisturizing properly, and exfoliating once or twice a week can keep your skin smooth and less prone to irritation—the perfect environment for staying tag-free.

When to See a Professional

If your skin tag changes color, grows rapidly, or becomes painful, it’s worth getting checked by a dermatologist. In rare cases, what looks like a skin tag could be something else, like a mole or small cyst.

A quick visit to a skincare professional ensures you’re treating the right thing—and they can safely remove it without risk of infection or scarring. The key is not to rush or use sharp objects at home. Sometimes the safest choice is expert care, especially for sensitive areas like the eyelids or groin.

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of skin tags doesn’t have to mean harsh chemicals or costly clinic visits. With patience and consistency, natural remedies can deliver gentle, lasting results. Whether you use tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, or simple banana peel therapy, the key is to stick with it daily and protect your skin during the process.

If you’re looking to get rid of skin tags safely and naturally, start small—test your remedy on one area and see how your skin reacts. Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the ones that truly work.

And once your skin is smooth again, use a hat size chart for your clothing or jewelry to avoid friction and keep those pesky tags from coming back. Your skin deserves a little care—and now you know exactly how to give it.