Gone are the days when traditional remedies were used to eliminate skin tags; now essential oils are fast gaining popularity and preference among specialists and people suffering from skin tags.
Essential oils are not only ideal for removing skin tags, but they are the number one preferred choice for the treatment of most skin conditions.
In the removal of skin tags, you want the process to be effective, painless and quick, which is exactly what essential oils offer.
However, not all natural methods are safe for use, that’s why in this article we’ll discuss some of the best essential oils for skin tags, causes, and symptoms.
Table of Contents
What are Skin Tags?
Also known as soft fibromas or fibroepithelial polyps, skin tags are small benign lesions that form on the skin.
In some cases, skin tags tend to have a slightly darker color than the surrounding skin.
Commonly Affected Areas
They appear as a nuisance to the affected party, but they are harmless. They can appear on virtually any part of the body’s skin, however, they mainly occur where the skin tends to rub against clothing or skin. These include:
• Groin
• Under the breasts
• Upper chest
• Neck (papilloma colli)
• Eyelids
• Axillae (armpits)
Skin tags comprise of nerve cells, fibers and ducts, a covering or epidermis, and fat cells. Normally, skin tags are hereditary, which increases the susceptibility of one to the condition. However, it is also brought about by increased weight or being obese, as obesity increases the likelihood of the person to develop skin tags. Skin tags can affect anyone irrespective of the age, but they mostly tend to occur in pregnant women and people who have diabetes, especially those who have struggled with hyperinsulinemia before.
In some cases, the skin tags develop, rub or fall off painlessly, but normally, they will persist and will only fall off after use of skin remedies or medical procedures.
Medical Removal Procedures
Cryosurgery- this is where the dermatologist freezes the skin tag using a probe containing a significant amount of liquid nitrogen.
Cauterization- here, the dermatologist burns off the skin tag using electrolysis
Ligation- it involves interrupting blood supply to the affected area, skin tag
Excision- the skin tag is cut out using a scalpel
However, if the skin tag is close to the eyelid’s margin; the procedure may require the help of an ophthalmologist to prevent possible damage to the eye. Other than surgical processes, you can also use natural remedies such as essential oils to treat the same; they are effective and have no side effects on the user.
What’s the difference between warts and skin tags?
• Unlike warts, which have a rough and irregular surface, skin tags are known to have a smooth and harmless surface.
• Warts are contagious growths, which can spread from the area of the first occurrence to other parts of the skin, while skin tags aren’t.
• Even from a single glance you can tell that skin tags can easily be detached; however, warts are different as they are fairly outlined.
• If the growth on your skin appears to be an outbreak or in a cluster, those are most likely warts, not skin tags.
Symptoms
• They are flesh colored and will most likely have the same color as the surrounding skin.
• They can be either be smooth or wrinkled.
• Their sizes range from 1mm to the size of a grape
• Skin tags tend to bleed if torn or caught on clothing.
• They are not painful and are normally not associated with any skin condition.
Best Essential Oils for Skin Tag Removal
1. Australian Tea Tree Oil
The Australian Tea Tree Oil is extracted from a certain plant species that is native to New South Wales and Queensland. It is famed for its antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-disinfectant and antimicrobial properties. It is also effective in treating skin growths. Apart from its ability to treat skin tags, the Australian Tea Tree Oil also prevents the skin tags from existing. This means that with this essential oil you do not have to worry about the skin tags ever occurring.
The Australian Tea Tree Oil works by blocking the blood supply to the skin tags, which dries them out completely. And within no time, your skin tags will fall off.
- Application
You can start by diluting the tea tree oil with lavender oil or rosehip seed oil as they are much softer. After this, gently apply the mixture on your skin tags. Do this repeatedly. In 2-3 days, you will start to notice that your skin tags are drying up and after several days, the tags will fall off painlessly.
2. Oregano Oil
Since Oregano Oil is potent, you should blend it with carrier oils such as olive oil or coconut oil to prevent skin irritation. Oregano oil has a wide range of properties, which include anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties. It is gotten from a juice extracted from Oregano leaves while still fresh. It is not only ideal for removing tags, but also for respiratory conditions.
- Application
Like earlier mentioned, Oregano oil can’t be used alone due to its potency; therefore, you have to mix it with carrier oils before you can start using it. If you prefer to use shea butter, make sure that you melt it before mixing it with Oregano Oil. After mixing, apply the mixture to your skin tags, and after several days the skin tags will begin to fall off.
3. Frankincense Oil
Due to its antiseptic properties and anti-inflammatory properties, Frankincense Oil is effective in removing skin tags, killing bacteria and any other agents that could cause skin tags. Traditionally, it was used for skin toning and its ability to ward off infections. Just like Oregano Oil, Frankincense Oil is potent, which warrants the user to blend it with carrier oils before it’s ready for application. Preferably, blend with base oils such as coconut or castor oil to make your oil skin-friendly.
- Application
When applying Frankincense, you can use either your fingertips or cotton swab for an even application. Blend the oil with your preferred carrier oil and apply it repeatedly on to achieve the desired effect. You’ll start noticing the results after several days.
4. Castor Oil
Castor Oil is one of the most popular essential oils due to its ability to facilitate faster healing in various conditions. With Castor Oil, you can either apply it topically or ingest it to tap on its many benefits. It can also be used as a softening oil when applying potent essential oils. Even when used alone, Castor oil is very effective in treating several skin conditions such as skin tags. For a better effect, you can mix it with baking soda and enjoy all its benefits.
- Application
In whatever form you apply or ingest castor oil, whether as a carrier oil, a mixture of baking soda or in its pure form, castor oil will always be effective in removing skin tags. For the best results, apply it several times a day, and after a few days, you’ll start noticing the results. However, when applying it as a paste, you’ll be limited to morning and evening hours. Use a bandage to hold the paste in place for 15-20 minutes before washing it off.
5. Lavender Essential Oil
It is arguably the most versatile oil on this list. It is not only famed for its therapeutic benefits but also its medicinal and aromatic benefits. In all its uses, it’s as effective as all the other essential oils. It even gets better as it has calming and soothing properties that help restore the normal condition of your skin after ridding it of skin tags.
- Application
You can either combine it or use it alone with carrier oils such as olive oil and coconut oil. Simply get a bottle and start making the mixture. Spray the mixture on your skin tags for as many times as you can for 2-3 days. Within a few days, the skin tags will start drying out and eventually fall off. During this period, lavender oil will ease the irritation and reduce inflammation during the treatment process.
6. Rose Hip Seed Oil
Rose Hip Seed Oil is rich in fatty acids and Vitamin C, which makes it ideal for treating skin conditions such as skin tags. It not only treats the various skin conditions but it also nourishes and rejuvenates the skin. It is often used as a skincare product.
- Application
You can blend it with carrier oils such as grape seed oil and apply it to your skin tags in the ratio of 10 drops to 1. Use your fingertips or cotton swab to get an even application throughout. Apply it several times a day to achieve the best results.
7. Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil is extracted from lemon and it functions as an astringent to remove the excess oils that contributed to the formation of tags. It also removes any excess water from your skin. Lemon essential oil cuts off blood supply to the skin tags, which causes the tags to fall off after a while. It requires consistent application to get the best result and uniform skin tone. After applications, be sure to stay away from direct sunlight as lemon is photosensitive. This can cause you irritation due to exposure. Preferably, blend the oil with carrier oils such as olive oil before you apply it to your skin tags.
- Application
Apply it repeatedly every day and try to stay away from sunlight. Within a few days, your tags will start drying out and within no time, they’ll fall off.
8. Sweet Basil Essential Oil
Basil oil is extracted from Basil plants. It is famed for its medicinal uses, anti-fungal, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. It is highly effective in healing skin tags. It is also ideal for treating acne and removing warts.
- Application
Mix it with carrier oils such as coconut oil or lavender oil and apply it on your skin tags.
Oils for Prevention
Bergamot
Bergamot is ideal for use on all skin types. It is especially good for acne-prone skin as it is rich in antimicrobial properties. It also doubles up as an antiseptic. Not only does it maintain the skin, but it also prohibits infection by combating bacteria and viruses that could trigger the development of skin disorders. It is effective in treating skin tags as it ensures that skin heals without leaving spot marks on your epidermis. It is recommended that you use it daily.
Lavender
Lavender’s healing properties were discussed earlier in the article, but it is also good to note that it stimulates, soothes, softens, and rejuvenates the skin. It’s readily absorbed into the skin, which makes it fast acting. It is ideal for eliminating scars, or other marks on the skin’s epidermis. It also stimulates the production of new cells.
Mandarin
Mandarin is known for its ability to rejuvenate and refine skin cells. Its cytophylactic nature enables it to stimulate the creation of new cells. It is also an excellent choice for cellular healing and protecting the skin from blemishes such as skin tags and scarring. Not only is it ideal for removing toxins and waste but it also promotes blood circulation in the body.
Neem
Neem is known for its ability to slow ageing, healing, and restorative properties. It has high levels of antioxidants and carotenoids, which helps fight and protect your skin against toxins and environmental damage. It also has high levels of essential fatty acids as well as Vitamin E that help restore the skin’s elasticity.
Conclusion
Removing tags with the essential oils listed above will not only be easy but also painless. However, since our bodies respond differently to medication, it could take up to 6 weeks to achieve the desired results. And while there are numerous products out there claiming to remove tags, not all of these products are effective and legitimate. Therefore, the best choice is to choose one with a proven record of being effective.
Article Resources:
https://essentialoilbenefits.com/best-essential-oils-to-use-for-skin-tags-removal/
https://fullnomore.com/essential-oils-for-skin-tags/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/67317.php