Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that often appear where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, eyelids or groin. They are harmless and do not need treatment unless they irritate you or you dislike how they look.
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Do not cut them off at home
Do not cut skin tags off with scissors, nail clippers or a scalpel at home. Cutting carries a real risk of bleeding, infection and scarring, especially for larger tags or those in sensitive areas such as the eyelids or groin.
Home remedies are unproven
Home remedies such as toothpaste, garlic, tea tree oil, or tying string around the tag are unproven and can irritate the skin. There is no reliable evidence that these methods remove skin tags safely or “overnight”, and product testimonials claiming otherwise should be treated with scepticism.
Safe removal is by a doctor
The safe way to remove a skin tag is to see a doctor or dermatologist. Professional methods include freezing (cryotherapy), cauterisation, or sterile snipping or cutting. These procedures are quick and relatively painless.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a growth changes in colour, size or shape, bleeds, hurts, or you are unsure whether it is a skin tag. A professional can confirm the diagnosis and advise on removal.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.