Skin tags are common, benign growths that appear on the skin, and many people seek simple ways to remove them. The popular succulent plant, Aloe Vera, is frequently cited online as a natural solution for a wide range of skin issues. This has led to widespread curiosity about whether applying the gel to skin tags can make them shrink or fall off. Understanding the true nature of these growths and the scientifically supported properties of Aloe Vera is necessary to evaluate this popular home remedy.
Understanding Skin Tags
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft, non-cancerous growths that project from the surrounding skin. They consist of a core of collagen fibers and blood vessels encased in an outer layer of skin. These lesions are typically flesh-colored or slightly hyperpigmented and are often connected to the body by a thin stalk, known as a peduncle.
While they can range in size from a tiny bump to a larger mass, most skin tags are small, measuring between 2 to 5 millimeters in diameter. Acrochordons most frequently develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, which is why they are commonly found on the neck, armpits, groin, under the breasts, and on the eyelids. They are generally harmless and painless, but they may become irritated or inflamed if repeatedly snagged by jewelry or clothing.
The Verdict on Aloe Vera for Skin Tag Removal
Despite its reputation as a cure-all, there is no clinical or scientific evidence that Aloe Vera gel can effectively remove skin tags. Successful removal requires cutting off the blood supply, freezing the tissue, or desiccating the growth, none of which are achieved by applying Aloe Vera. A skin tag is a solid growth of tissue, and applying a topical gel cannot dissolve the collagen and vascular core that forms the lesion.
The belief that Aloe Vera works is likely based on anecdotal reports and a misunderstanding of its proven actions. While the gel possesses beneficial properties for skin health, these do not include the ability to destroy a benign tumor like an acrochordon. Relying solely on this remedy may delay seeking a proven treatment option, although applying the gel will not cause harm.
Known Therapeutic Properties of Aloe Vera
The high regard for Aloe Vera in dermatology stems from its well-documented therapeutic profile for addressing various skin irritations. The gel, extracted from the plant’s leaves, is approximately 99% water, making it a highly effective moisturizer that helps prevent transepidermal water loss. The remaining percentage contains over 75 active compounds, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
The plant contains glucomannan, a polysaccharide that stimulates the growth and proliferation of fibroblasts. This action increases collagen production and cross-linking, helping to accelerate the healing process of minor wounds and abrasions. Furthermore, compounds like magnesium lactate and anthraquinones provide anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. These properties make Aloe Vera excellent for calming sunburn, reducing redness, and providing relief for minor skin injuries, which is why it is often applied to soothe irritated skin tags.
Medically Verified Removal Options
Since Aloe Vera is not a viable treatment, individuals seeking to eliminate skin tags should consult a healthcare provider for safe and effective options. Professional removal procedures target the underlying tissue structure of the acrochordon, ensuring complete elimination. These are typically performed in a clinical setting and are considered minor procedures with minimal recovery time. A medical professional should always perform these procedures, particularly if the growth is large, painful, or located on a sensitive area like the eyelid.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves freezing the skin tag with liquid nitrogen, causing the tissue to die and the tag to fall off within a week or two.
Surgical Excision and Electrosurgery
Surgical excision, or snipping, uses a sterile scalpel or surgical scissors to cut the tag at its base, often after a local anesthetic is applied. Electrosurgery, or cauterization, uses a high-frequency electrical current to burn and desiccate the growth, which seals blood vessels and minimizes bleeding.