Skin tags are common, harmless growths but many people wonder how to remove them safely.
These soft, skin-colored growths often appear in areas where skin rubs together. While they don’t usually cause pain, they can be irritating, catch on clothing or bleed.
If you’re thinking about removing a skin tag, it’s important to understand your options and what’s safe. Rebecca Thiede, MD, a dermatologist with Banner – University Medicine, explains what causes skin tags, how they’re treated and why at-home removal isn’t recommended.
What are skin tags?
Skin tags (also known as acrochordons and fibroepithelial polyps) are non-cancerous (benign) growths. They might be the same color as your skin or darker, but they are not harmful.
“Skin tags are made up of skin cells, collagen, tiny blood vessels and nerves,” Dr. Thiede said. “They can range in size from a few millimeters to a few centimeters, but tags this size are rare.”
They usually develop in areas where your skin naturally folds, such as the neck, armpits, groin area and eyelids.
Are skin tags dangerous?
Skin tags are benign (noncancerous) and usually harmless. However, if a growth changes in size, shape or color, it’s important to have it checked by a provider.
What causes skin tags and who gets them?
Unlike moles or other skin growths, you aren’t born with skin tags but can develop at least one in your lifetime.
Skin tags are common. “Skin tags can appear in up to 60% of the adult general population, affecting both men and women equally,” Dr. Thiede said. “They can run in families, but we often see these during pregnancy and in people with type 2 diabetes, who are overweight and/or have a metabolic syndrome.”
Although it’s rare, these skin growths can also appear with genetic disorders like Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome.
Are skin tags generally harmless? Should I see my provider?
Skin tags are usually asymptomatic, meaning they don’t cause any problems. But depending on where the tags are on your body, they might get caught on clothing, seatbelts or jewelry or become irritated from repeated rubbing, especially near skin folds.
“Sometimes, what might look like a skin tag could be a different type of skin growth,” Dr. Thiede said. “If you have a family history of skin cancer, you should see your dermatologist to look at them to ensure they are truly skin tags.”
Can you remove skin tags at home?
Searches on Google and TikTok might send you down a rabbit hole of different at-home treatments – such as freezing kits, duct tape or applying baking soda and castor oil, tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar – but it’s a bad idea to DIY.
Dr. Thiede strongly discourages at-home removal. Leave the procedure to treat skin tags to dermatologists and other health care providers.
“There is no scientific proof these OTC products work. Even worse, you risk skin irritation, bleeding and scarring,” said Dr. Thiede. “Also, if your supposed skin tag is growing quickly and/or changes in shape or color in a short time, it might be skin cancer. You don’t want to miss a melanoma.”
How to remove skin tags safely
“Dermatologists are equipped to identify and safely remove skin tags and other skin lesions,” Dr. Thiede said.
Some of these treatments might include:
- Snip removal (excision): Your provider might cut off the skin tag with a scalpel or surgical scissors. This is usually a quick procedure and stitches may or may not be needed.
- Cryotherapy: You can have your skin tag frozen off using liquid nitrogen. The cold temperature causes the tag to fall off after some time.
- Laser treatments: Laser treatment involves using a laser to break down the cells in the skin tag, causing it to fall off.
- Electrocautery or cauterization: This method involves using a special tool or device to burn off the skin tag.
Can I do anything to prevent skin tags?
It’s not always possible to prevent skin tags entirely, but there are some things you can do that might help reduce the chances of them developing:
- Live a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet of fruits, veggies and whole grains for good skin health. Get regular exercise. Stay at a healthy weight for your body.
- Check your skin: Keep an eye on your skin. If you notice anything new or changing, have it checked out by your provider.
- Use moisturizer: Keep your skin well moisturized to prevent irritation. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic lotion to keep skin hydrated.
- Be kind to your skin: Be cautious with harsh chemical skincare products. These can irritate your skin.
- Wear comfy clothes: Choose loose-fitting clothes to prevent skin from rubbing together, especially in places where skin tags might pop up.
Frequently asked questions about skin tags
What causes skin tags?
They are often linked to friction, genetics and certain health conditions.
Can skin tags go away on their own?
No, they usually do not go away without removal.
Is it safe to remove skin tags yourself?
It’s not recommended due to risk of bleeding, infection and misdiagnosis.
What is the fastest way to remove a skin tag?
Medical removal by a provider is the safest and most effective option.
Bottom line
Skin tags are harmless but can be bothersome. The safest way to remove them is with help from a health care provider, especially to avoid complications or misdiagnosis.
Contact your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist if you are worried about a possible skin tag or growth on your skin.
Check out other skin-related topics:
- What You Should Know About Eyelid Papilloma
- 10 Dermatologist-Approved Winter Skin Care Tips
- Is That Skin Bump a Wart? How to Tell and What to Do
Content in this article was updated on April 15, 2026.
