Skin tags are often painless but can be irritated by friction from clothing or other items touching the area. The Mayo Clinic describes tags as flesh-colored growths that protrude from the skin. The tag is made of skin tissues, which means they are not cancerous. Instead, the skin tag may be more of a cosmetic concern or an irritant depending on the location. Friction is often the cause of a skin tag. Removing a bothersome skin tag is done by a medical professional but wart treatment products may be effective.
Step 1
Select an over-the-counter salicylic acid product at your local drugstore. These are generally made to remove warts, but the salicylic acid can be effective in removing the skin tag.
Step 2
Apply the salicylic acid as directed. This generally requires a small amount of the gel or liquid applied oncer per day until the skin tag has disappeared. Some options also include medicated bandages that have acid administered to the disc or pad that covers the tag.
Step 3
Schedule an appointment with your doctor or a dermatologist if the skin tag does not resolve after several weeks of treatment with salicylic acid. The tag may be small enough that anesthesia is not required before the doctor uses a scalpel, scissors or an electronic needle to remove the skin tissues. There may be a small scab after the removal of the tag but the skin will heal.
Things You'll Need
- Salicylic acid
