Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, skin polyps, fibroepithelial polyps, fibrovascular papilloma, soft fibroma, or fibroma molles, are a common annoyance. We are talking about the small harmless tumours, that form in the armpits, the neck, the groin or even under the breasts (just for good measure). They are non-cancerous and not harmful to the health, but they are not too aesthetically pleasing. Here are a few natural, pain-free remedies made from products you are likely to have in your cupboards. However, it is always better to consult your doctor beforehand, in order to be sure that these treatments are suitable for you.
1) Nail varnish
Transparent nail varnish is the main ingredient for one treatment for removing skin tags. HomeRemedyHaven.com recommends applying it twice a day just until the skin tag comes of. Naturally, this treatment is not recommended for sensitive areas such as around the anus, around the eyes, the nostrils or the lips.
2) The winning combo: bicarbonate of soda and castor oil
Mixing these two ingredients to make a thick paste (2 teaspoons of castor oil and one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda should do the trick), you can create a fantastic balm to dry out the skin tag and eventually cause it to fall off. This can take about two weeks if you apply it three times a day. It is a good idea to apply it at night and cover with a band aid, rinsing it off with lukewarm water the next morning.
3) Apple cider vinegar
Applied several times a day, this will give the skin tag a dark colour. Do not use near the eyes or the anus.
4) Fenugreek seeds
This is a classic ingredient in Greek, Italian, Indian and Arabic medicines, thanks to its powerful antioxidants. Soak the seeds in water overnight and drink the water on an empty stomach the next morning. Alternatively, you can chew the soaked seeds. Do not consume more than 100g per day, and do not try this remedy if you have thyroid problems or anaemia.
5) Oregano oil
Oregano oil contains thymol, carvacrol and p-cymene, which are strong antibacterials, but it also has antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiseptic properties. In short, this oil is well equipped to treat skin tags (it generally takes about a month before it falls off). Prepare a mixture of six drops of coconut oil and two or three drops of oregano oil, and apply it to the area for treatment three times a day. Avoid contact with the eyes.
6)Fresh garlic
Fresh garlic is great for preventing and treating many types of skin problems. Crush a few cloves of garlic to make a good paste and apply to the area every day. Cover the paste with a band aid and leave it on overnight. Rinse with lukewarm water the next morning.
7) Onions
To reap the benefits of the acidic juice from an onion, cut it into little pieces and add a half teaspoon of salt. Leave the mixture to sit overnight in a well-sealed container. The next day, extract the juice. Like with the garlic, apply it to the skin tag by night, covering with a band aid, and rinsing off with lukewarm water the next morning.