Skin tags, also known as acrochordons or fibro-epithelial polyps, are soft pieces of skin that grow from the body, looking just like that particular part has been tagged. Although they may look quite repulsive, especially when there are many of them clustered together, they are entirely harmless. Certain people are more prone to developing skin tags and although the exact causes remains unknown, being overweight increases the risks of developing skin tags. A family history of skin tags may also increase the risks of developing these tags.
Skin tags can affect both men and women equally. Most skin tags, once formed, will remain and can become an unwanted nuisance to deal with, especially when they form on the face or neck. Skin tags are usually found around the neck, underarms, eyelids, groin, buttocks and under the breasts, with most skin tags growing up to 2 mm in diameter. These are the areas where the skin is exposed to the maximum amount of friction, either with skin rubbing against skin or against clothes.
Skin tags do not spread, nor does their removal precipitate further growth. It just so happens that some people are more prone to developing skin tags, with newer growth spurts occurring periodically. A diagnosis of skin tags is pretty straightforward although there are times when odd skin tags may require a biopsy.
Being benign growths, treatment is usually not needed. Only when they cause irritation or begin to mar one’s looks will it be necessary to have them removed. This can be accomplished either by surgery, freezing or cauterizing them with an electrical current.
There are a few home remedies for skin tags. One common remedy that helps in cases of small tags involves tying the base of the tag with a thread or dental floss. This will stop blood flow to the tag, killing the tissue and causing it to fall off. The National Center for Biotechnology information says that this treatment is usually effective in 90% of all cases involving the smaller variety of skin tags. However, several doctors recommend that this method should be used only by a doctor and not tried at home. This is a precautionary measure to confirm a diagnosis of skin tags and rule out other more serious possibilities that could affect your health to a large extent.
Some traditional healers recommend the application of nail polish to the skin tag as an effective means of removal. Apply clear nail polish to the tags 2 to 3 times a day till they fall off. This home remedy should not be used on tags near the eyes, nose, lips or anus.
Caustic salves may also help to detach skin tags. A simple caustic salve can be made at home by mixing baking soda and castor oil to make a thick paste. Application of this salve 2 to 3 times a day may help dry the skin tag, allowing it to fall off. The whole process may take as long as two weeks so you will have to be patient.
Apple cider vinegar may also help to dry skin tags, allowing them to fall off. It should be applied to the tags 2 to 3 times a day until the tags turn dark and eventually fall off. This remedy should not be used near the eyes, nose or anal regions.
Consult your doctor first for a confirmation of a diagnosis before attempting any home remedies. Home remedies may be effective in cases of the smaller skin tags but the larger ones will require removal by your doctor.
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