Application:
- Dab 1–2 drops of diluted tea tree oil on the tag.
- Cover it with a bandage.
- Use daily until the tag falls off (usually within 2–3 weeks).
Scientific Support:
Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol, known to have antimicrobial and drying effects on skin lesions.
Study: “Tea tree oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties” – Clinical Microbiology Reviews (2006).
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1360273/
3. Banana Peel
Banana peel contains antioxidants, enzymes, and natural acids that can dry and reduce the size of skin tags.
Application:
- Place the inside of a ripe banana peel on the tag.
- Secure it overnight with tape or a bandage.
- Repeat nightly.
Scientific Support:
Though studies on banana peel for skin tags are limited, banana peels are used in alternative medicine to treat psoriasis and warts due to their antioxidant content and enzyme action.
Source: Herbal medicine guides (e.g., Indian Journal of Dermatology – Traditional remedies)
4. Baking Soda and Castor Oil Paste
This paste acts as a natural drying agent and works well for persistent skin tags.
How to Use:
- Mix a small amount of baking soda with a few drops of castor oil to form a paste.
- Apply it directly to the tag and cover.
- Use daily for 1–2 weeks.
Scientific Support:
Baking soda creates an alkaline environment that may break down skin cells over time, while castor oil promotes skin repair due to its ricinoleic acid content.
Study: “Castor oil: properties and applications” – International Journal of Toxicology (2007)
5. Dental Floss or Thread (Strangulation Method)
Also known as ligation, this technique cuts off blood flow to the tag, causing it to shrivel and fall off within days.
How to Use:
- Tie a tight loop around the base of the tag using clean dental floss.
- Leave it in place and monitor daily.
- The tag will darken and fall off in 3–10 days.
Medical Insight:
Dermatologists sometimes use surgical ligation in clinics. This home version is similar but should only be used on small, clearly defined tags.
Source: Dermatologic Surgery Manual, American Academy of Dermatology
🧼 Aftercare Tips
- Keep the area clean and dry.
- Apply aloe vera gel or vitamin E oil to help with healing.
- Avoid exposing the area to sunlight or harsh products.
❌ What to Avoid
- Do NOT cut off a skin tag with scissors or a razor.
- Avoid over-the-counter wart removers unless prescribed.
- Don’t treat tags around the eyes or genitals without medical advice.
🧾 Final Thoughts (and My Results)
I’ve personally used apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil with great success. These methods took around 1–2 weeks but were completely painless and left no scars. Best of all, I avoided costly procedures or waiting for dermatology appointments.
Backed by science and easy to do, these natural home remedies are a safe alternative if used correctly and consistently.
