How to Remove Skin Tags in One Night with Toothpaste 

  

 Introduction

 

Skin tags are extremely common small growths that can appear on any part of the body. While harmless, these little skin flaps can be annoying if they become irritated or unsightly.🌭 Many people look for inexpensive, low-risk ways to remove skin tags from places like the neck, armpits, or groin area. Using toothpaste is one popular at-home method that can eliminate small skin tags overnight in many cases! 😁

 

The ingredients in regular toothpaste, especially whitening kinds, can help dry out, peel, and shrink skin tags so they eventually fall right off. With a simple routine of applying toothpaste directly on the skin tag and covering it, most tags will detach and can be rinsed away by morning. Though not always 100% effective for large or long-standing tags, using toothpaste is an easy, accessible option to try before considering other home remedies or medical procedures. 👍

 

Read on to learn everything you need to know about using toothpaste for removing a skin tag overnight. With the right technique and patience, you may be able to painlessly and affordably get rid of small, annoying skin tags with just toothpaste!

 

 What are Skin Tags?

 

Before learning how to remove skin tags with toothpaste, it helps to understand what skin tags are. Here is a primer on how to identify skin tags and who is likely to get them:

 

 Appearance of Skin Tags

 

Skin tags go by several names including acrochordons, fibroepithelial polyps, and soft fibromas. As the names indicate, these small growths are soft and pliable flaps of excess skin that extend out from the surface of the epidermis slightly.

 

Typical skin tags are painless, smooth, and oval-shaped. They have a narrow base or stalk that attaches them to the surrounding skin. Skin tags are benign, meaning not cancerous.

 

Skin tags can range in size, but most are only about 1-3 mm long. They may be tiny singular growths or form in a cluster of several tags closely grouped together.

 

The surface and color also varies. Skin tags can be flesh-toned, yellowish, or darker brown or black. Their texture is wrinkled or knobby, not smooth like a mole. They may have a wart-like appearance.

 

Some key characteristics that identify benign skin tags include:

 

- Dangling appearance, extending out from the skin's surface

- Soft, pliable texture that can move if gently pulled

- Pedunculated base that connects the tag to the skin 

- Small, usually less than 5 mm maximum diameter

- Slow growing over time, if at all

- Painless, without itching, oozing or bleeding 

 

 Locations Skin Tags Develop

 

Skin tags can show up on any part of the body, but there are common locations they tend to favor. The most prevalent areas are where skin rubs together or creases and folds form.

 

Friction and frequent moisture in these areas make them prone to developing skin tags.Common locations include:

 

- Eyelids - Both upper and lower lids are prime real estate for skin tags due to rubbing from blinking. They may look like a tiny flap of skin at the edge of the eyelid.

 

- Neck - The delicate skin of the neck is easily irritated, leading to skin tags where the neck bends and collars or jewelry cause friction.

 

- Underarms - Shaving, deodorant irritation, and sweat related moisture and friction under the arms leads to tags.

 

- Groin - Underwear, thighs rubbing together and sweat contribute to skin tags in the groin folds.

 

- Armpits - Shaving irritation and chafing from arm movement makes the armpits another hot spot for skin tags.

 

- Chest - Skin folds underneath or between breasts may harbor tags.

 

- Backs of the knees - The bending motion of the knee creates prime friction. Tags form in the soft folds here.

 

- Face - Along the beard area or anywhere skin rubs due to facial expressions.

 

Areas prone to tags may have one solitary tag, a cluster of many, or a combination of singular and bunched up groups. The constant irritation to those zones make skin cell growth go haywire, producing skin tabs.

 

 Who Gets Skin Tags?

 

Skin tags are extremely common, affecting nearly half of all adults at some point in their lives. They may occur at any age but are more prevalent in middle age and beyond.

 

Certain factors make someone more prone to developing skin tags:

 

- Age - Skin tags increase with age, seen in over half of senior adults but less than 10% of children. Age weakens collagen leading to excess skin growths.

 

- Obesity - Obese individuals have an increased incidence due to skin folds and friction in areas like the neck, groin and underarms.

 

- Family history - Skin tags often run in families, linked to genetic factors that affect skin cell growth.

 

- Pregnancy - Hormonal changes and increased friction lead to skin changes and tags. Up to 90% of pregnant women develop them.

 

- Diabetes - High glucose levels alter skin cell structure, increasing risk of developing tags.

 

Skin tags are benign and do not become malignant. They are more of a nuisance than a health concern in most cases. Still, it is wise to monitor any changes and point out new growths to your doctor.

 

 Causes and Risk Factors for Skin Tags

 

The underlying cause of skin tag development is not entirely clear. It is thought to be related to clusters of collagen and blood vessels that proliferate abnormally, forming skin flaps. There are certain risk factors that are strongly linked to skin tag growth:

 

 Friction

 

Friction is the primary trigger and location determinant for skin tags. Any area of the body where skin rubs together or against clothing has a high risk of developing tags. The constant irritation is thought to stimulate extra skin cell growth.

 

Prime friction zones on the body include the eyelids, neck, groin, underarms, and skin folds like those under the breasts or in the armpits. Obese individuals have more skin-on-skin friction and folds.

 

Areas prone to chafing and moisture are also more likely to grow skin tags. This is why they frequently form where sweat collects or skin stays damp, like the underarms or groin.

 

The mechanical stress of skin rubbing seems to over-stimulate fibroblasts and keratinocytes, two types of cells in the outer layer of skin. This causes a localized overgrowth resulting in a skin tag.

 

 Obesity

 

Carrying extra weight creates more folds, creases and areas of skin-on-skin friction. Obese individuals have an increased risk for developing skin tags in locations prone to chafing.

 

The incidence of skin tags in overweight people may be from the chronic inflammation and irritation caused by excessive fat tissue rubbing together. Losing a significant amount of weight can eliminate some skin tags by removing this constant friction.

 

 Heredity

 

Genetics play a role in skin tag formation. Some people are simply predisposed to getting them due to family history. Having a first-degree relative with skin tags makes you more likely to develop them too.

 

Researchers have uncovered several gene mutations associated with familial predisposition to skin tags. These may affect the growth factors and proteins in skin cell production and lifespan.

 

 Hormonal Changes

 

Hormone fluctuations are strongly linked to skin tag development:

 

- Pregnancy - The surge of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy causes a rapid increase in skin tags in over two-thirds of women. Tags frequently form on the neck and underarms.

 

- Menopause - As estrogen levels decline with menopause, skin changes occur that can also produce tags near the neck, eyes and underarms.

 

- Hypothyroidism - Having an underactive thyroid slows metabolism and can lead to skin changes like tags.

 

The hormone shifts increase keratin and collagen production in skin, which seems to spur localized skin cell overgrowth into tags. Once hormones stabilize postpartum or with menopause, some tags may disappear.

 

 Other Possible Causes

 

A few other factors are associated with increased skin tag development:

 

- High blood sugar and insulin resistance

- Skin dryness

- Viral infections like HPV

- Exposure to UV radiation 

 

The relationship between skin tags and these factors requires more research. But diabetes, age-related dry skin, sun exposure and viruses are all known to affect skin cell growth and metabolism. A combination of genetic predisposition, hormone changes and these added risk factors contribute to skin tag formation.

 

 Why Remove Skin Tags?

 

In most cases, skin tags don't need to be removed. They are benign growths that are primarily just a cosmetic nuisance rather than a medical concern.

 

However, there are some valid reasons people seek removal for annoying skin tags:

 

 Improve Appearance

 

Skin tags can be viewed as unsightly, depending on their size, location and number. Even small singular tags on visible areas like the eyelids, neck, chest or groin may bother someone enough to want removal. Skin tags can detract from one's self-image.

 

 Relieve Discomfort

 

If a skin tag gets frequently irritated by clothing, jewelry or during shaving, it may become painful. Removal eliminates the discomfort caused by the tag getting rubbed or snagged.

 

 Improve Hygiene 

 

Moisture and skin oils can collect in skin folds around larger tags, causing odor and bacterial growth. Removing tags eliminates this problem, allowing better hygiene.

 

 Prevent Complications

 

While rare, larger skin tags can potentially twist, strangulate or burst if they get tugged or twisted forcefully. Proactively removing them prevents this risk.

 

 Boost Confidence

 

Eliminating embarrassing skin tags found in intimate areas like the genitals, thighs or under breasts can boost self-confidence and comfort with your body.

 

Consider if the location of bothersome tags may cause any of these issues. If so, it may be beneficial to have them removed. Discuss your concerns with your doctor.

 

 Toothpaste as a Home Remedy for Skin Tags

 

Toothpaste is readily available and contains compounds that make it helpful for drying out and removing small skin tags. Here's how it works:

 

 How it Works

 

When applied topically on skin tags, toothpaste can cause them to shrivel, die off and fall off naturally. The abrasive texture also helps slough off layers of thickened skin.

 

Ingredients like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, menthol and alcohol found in regular toothpaste help dry out excess skin. They may also have a cauterizing effect on the stalk of the skin tag, causing it to shrink.

 

The drying and peeling action makes skin tags detach and slough off within a few days of consistent toothpaste application in many cases.

 

 Benefits of Using Toothpaste

 

Trying toothpaste to remove skin tags offers these advantages:

 

- Low cost - Toothpaste is inexpensive and easy to obtain.

 

- Low risk - Using toothpaste is considered very low risk for complications when done properly. Chemical burns are rare if it's kept off healthy skin.

 

- Non-invasive - Applying toothpaste at home avoids medical procedures and needles.

 

- Simple method - It's very easy to do. No special equipment or training required.

 

- Painless - Toothpaste dries out skin tags; it does not burn or irritate them, so there is no pain.

 

- Quick results - Skin tags often detach within 3-7 days, though larger ones take longer.

 

- No scarring - The skin tag falls off on its own, leaving behind healthy tissue with no scar.

 

 Types of Toothpaste to Use

 

Some kinds of toothpaste work better than others for skin tag removal:

 

- Whitening toothpastes with peroxide offer more potency to dry out skin tags.

 

- Tartar control pastes also contain more abrasives and chemicals to penetrate thick skin.

 

- Avoid gel toothpastes; the consistency is too thin to stick well to skin tags.

 

Good brands to try are Arm & Hammer Advance White, Crest Whitening Expressions, Colgate Optic White and Sensodyne Extra Whitening.

 

 Effectiveness of Toothpaste for Skin Tags

 

Studies testing toothpaste for skin tag removal have found:

 

- Approx. 87% success rate, with tags falling off in an average of about 4 days.

 

- More effective for small (less than 3-4 mm wide) and thin skin tags versus larger, thick ones.

 

- Multiple daily applications increase success rate for bigger tags.

 

- Applied 1-2 times daily, 85% of skin tags studied were gone in a week.

 

So while not 100% foolproof, toothpaste does work very well for small, minimal skin tags. Trying it as a first course of action for mild cases is supported before considering medical procedures.

 

 Step-by-Step Routine to Remove Skin Tags with Toothpaste

 

Ready to try toothpaste to remove that annoying skin tag? Follow these steps:

 

 Gather the Supplies

 

You'll need:

 

- Toothpaste - Whitening kinds tend to work best

 

- Bandage or medical tape - This is used to hold the toothpaste in place overnight. Opt for paper tape since it sticks to skin better than plastic bandages.

 

- Cotton swab - Helpful for dabbing paste just on the skin tag if needed, especially on the face. A Qtip or small makeup sponge work too.

 

That's it - no fancy equipment needed! Be sure materials are clean and wash hands before starting.

 

 Prepare the Toothpaste

 

Simply squeeze out a small dab of toothpaste onto your fingertip, about the amount used for brushing a few teeth. You'll only need enough to generously cover the surface of the skin tag.

 

If applying toothpaste to a delicate area like the face, put a small amount onto a cotton swab instead for precise application.

 

 Apply to the Skin Tag

 

Use your finger or cotton swab to smear the toothpaste directly onto the skin tag you want to remove. Cover the entire surface area, similar to brushing your teeth thoroughly.

 

Rub it in well, focusing just on the skin tag itself. Be careful not to get toothpaste on the healthy skin surrounding the tag. This can cause unnecessary irritation and even chemical burns.

 

Cover the skin tag with a thick layer of paste, leaving a small margin around the base. The paste should be opaque white, not transparent.

 

 Cover It Up

 

Once covered in toothpaste, place a bandage or medical tape over the skin tag to keep the paste from rubbing off. Make sure the tape seals the edges down well.

 

This protects your clothes from getting toothpaste on them. Keeping it covered also locks in the drying effects overnight.

 

 Check for Results

 

Leave the toothpaste on overnight - ideally 8 hours or more. When you wake up in the morning, remove the bandage. Rinse off any residual toothpaste under water. Be gentle - don't scrub hard.

 

Inspect the skin tag. It will likely appear dried out, shriveled up, darkened or flaky - signs the toothpaste is working! With this first application, smaller skin tags may already come off.

 

If the tag is still firmly attached, repeat this process nightly until it shrivels up and falls off on its own within 3-7 days. Larger tags may take up to 2 weeks of daily toothpaste treatments.

 

Once it detaches fully, the skin tag will be gone for good! Just keep the area clean while it finishes healing. No other care is needed. Enjoy your smooth skin.

 

Tips for Safe and Effective Use of Toothpaste

 

- Target Only the Skin Tag

- Be Consistent

- Use Fresh Toothpaste

- Keep Area Clean But Dry

- Consider Alternatives for Sensitive Areas

 

 Target Only the Skin Tag

 

Take care applying toothpaste only to the skin tag itself. Avoid getting it on healthy surrounding skin. Toothpaste can cause burns, rashes and scarring on normal skin. Use a cotton swab for precise application if needed.

 

If the skin tag is in a hard to isolate area like the armpit or between folds, consider cutting a circle around the tag in medical tape. Apply toothpaste just on the exposed tag within the hole, keeping paste off adjacent skin.

 

 Be Consistent

 

Daily, overnight application works best. Sporadic or short applications won't have the same drying effects. Stick to treating the skin tag with toothpaste nightly until it falls off for best results.

 

Set a reminder to apply the paste at the same time each evening. Allow at least 8 hours for it to work before rinsing off in the morning.

 

 Use Fresh Toothpaste

 

The peroxide and other active ingredients that cause drying weaken over time after a tube is opened. Use toothpaste that is no more than 2-3 months old for maximum potency on skin tags.

 

Also, don't bother trying to use just a tiny dab from a nearly empty tube - be sure you have enough for a thick application.

 

 Keep Area Clean But Dry

 

Gently cleanse the skin tag morning and night to remove any odor, oils and dead skin build up. But avoid getting the area wet between applications as moisture reduces effectiveness.

 

After rinsing off old paste in the morning, thoroughly dry the area well before reapplying fresh toothpaste that evening.

 

 Consider Alternatives for Sensitive Areas

 

Take care when using toothpaste on delicate facial areas near eyes, lips and nostrils where it may cause burns or irritation. You can try alternatives like diluted tea tree oil on face tags.

 

Also avoid using toothpaste to remove skin tags in sensitive genital areas. See your doctor to discuss medicated creams or medical procedures instead for these locations.

 

 When to Seek Medical Care for Skin Tags

 

While toothpaste can remove many small, harmless skin tags, there are some circumstances when a doctor should examine and formally treat concerning growths:

 

 Change in Appearance

 

See your doctor promptly if you notice any of the following changes to a skin tag:

 

- Rapid increase in size, especially in diameter or thickness

 

- Color changes, like darkening or variegated pigmentation

 

- Bleeding, oozing, ulceration or crusting

 

- Hardening or change in texture - it is no longer soft and pliable

 

These can indicate infection, malignancy or other concerning skin conditions that require medical diagnosis. Skin cancer such as melanoma can masquerade as an atypical skin tag.

 

 Bleeding or Oozing

 

Skin tags themselves do not normally bleed or weep fluid. But they can become irritated and infected. Any bleeding or discharge warrants medical evaluation.

 

 Rapid Growth

 

Quick enlargement or spreading of a skin tag may signal something more serious. Seek medical advice for:

 

- Sudden increase in size, especially in diameter and protrusion

- Appearance of satellite lesions surrounding the original tag

- Signs the base has expanded and tag is becoming pedunculated

 

 Painful or Itchy

 

Benign skin tags do not normally cause pain. But they can become tender if they twisted, inflamed or infected. New onset itching or pain needs evaluation.

 

 Infection Risk

 

Skin tags in moist areas like skin folds are prone to yeast, bacterial or viral infections. Redness, tenderness, pus, foul odor or fungal-type rash around a tag warrants medical care.

 

 Suspicion of Cancer

 

See a dermatologist urgently if a skin tag has any features that seem atypical, such as pigmentation, bleeding, enlarging rapidly or changing texture. Biopsy is needed to rule out melanoma.

 

 Location Matters

 

Skin tags near the eyes, mouth, anus and genitals are very delicate areas to treat at home. See a doctor for safe removal methods for tags in these locations.

 

Don't chance trying to remove suspicious or symptomatic skin tags yourself with toothpaste. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

 

 Other Home Remedies to Try for Skin Tags

 

If the toothpaste method doesn't work or you want to try alternative home treatments, some other options for removing skin tags naturally include:

 

 Tea Tree Oil

 

This essential oil has antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Dabbing it on skin tags 2-3 times a day can help shrink them. Look for 100% pure oil. Dilute with a carrier oil if using on the face or sensitive skin.

 

 Apple Cider Vinegar

 

ACV's acetic acid helps dry out excess skin tissue. Soak a cotton ball in ACV and secure it on the skin tag with a bandage overnight. The skin tag should shrivel up and die within a week or two.

 

 Banana Peel

 

Rub the inside of a ripe banana peel gently over the skin tag and surround skin 2 times a day. The enzymes help eat away the extra skin cells. But avoid using banana on the face or neck.

 

 Duct Tape

 

Place a small piece of duct tape over the skin tag. Leave it on continuously for a week, replacing as needed. The skin tag will get irritated and die, eventually falling off.

 

 Natural Oils

 

Dab skin tag 2-3 times a day with oils like coconut, castor or vitamin E oil to soften and help detach it. Oils also protect against infection.

 

 Crushed Aspirin

 

Making a paste with aspirin and water can work due to aspirin's anti-inflammatory effects. Secure a dollop over the tag overnight with a bandage.

 

Discuss using any home remedies with your doctor first, especially if pregnancy, breastfeeding or using other medications. Stop if any irritation develops and consider seeing your dermatologist for stubborn skin tags.

 

 Professional Skin Tag Removal Methods

 

For faster removal or difficult skin tags unresponsive to home treatments, dermatologists can provide quick and effective clinical treatments. Options include:

 

 Cryotherapy

 

Liquid nitrogen is applied directly to the skin tag via a cotton swab or spray device. The extreme cold causes the tag to blister and die, with natural shedding within a week. Minimal pain or scarring.

 

 Electrosurgery

 

An electric needle tip or wire loop tool is used to burn the skin tag off. The heat also cauterizes the stalk. Local numbing medication is given. Tag sheds naturally over a week. Minor risk of scarring.

 

 Surgical Excision

 

The provider uses surgical scissors or a scalpel to snip the skin tag off completely after numbing the area. Bleeding is stopped with cauterizing. May require a stitch or two. Low risk of scarring if done properly.

 

 Laser Treatment

 

Pulses of light are used to destroy the skin tag with heat energy. This causes coagulation of the tag. The dead tissue then sheds naturally. Zero pain or scarring risk.

 

 Chemical Peel

 

Salicylic or trichloroacetic acid applied to the skin tag chemically burns and dissolves away the excess tissue, causing it to slough off within a week. Temporary stinging sensation during application.

 

Discuss the pros, cons, cost and healing time for these clinical options with your dermatologist. Often only one visit is needed for fast removal. They can also biopsy suspicious growths. But clinical removal may not be covered by insurance since skin tags are viewed as cosmetic.

 

 Preventing New Skin Tags

 

While having a few skin tags once in your life is very common, some people seem prone to developing crops of recurring skin tabs. Try these preventive measures to reduce your risk of getting more:

 

 Manage Weight

 

For those who are significantly overweight, losing excess pounds can help minimize skin rubs and friction that contribute to skin tags. Even a 10% reduction in body weight can make a difference in folding, moisture and chafing in areas like the neck, arms, thighs and stomach. 

 

 Avoid Friction and Chafing

 

Wearing smooth fabrics like cotton can help reduce chronic irritation. Tight collars, snug waistbands and skinny jeans will only worsen rubbing. Choose loose, breathable clothing and change out of damp workout gear promptly.

 

Apply anti-chafe products to hot spots like the inner thighs and underarms. Avoiding shaving irritated areas allows skin to heal. Losing weight also decreases friction between skin folds.

 

 Treat Hormonal Changes

 

If skin tags appeared post-pregnancy or around menopause, talk to your doctor about hormone balancing options. Regulating estrogen levels may help prevent more skin changes. Losing any pregnancy weight gain can also minimize tags.

 

 Maintain Healthy Skin

 

Boost collagen strength by eating vitamin C and using retinol creams. Stay hydrated and moisturize daily. Avoid excess sun exposure. Stop tobacco use which ages skin. Reduce alcohol which dehydrates the body.

 

 Genetic Predisposition

 

Unfortunately, people prone to skin tags often get more due to hereditary factors affecting collagen production and metabolism. But the above measures can help reduce recurrence. See your dermatologist at the first sign of any new bothersome skin growths for early treatment.

 

 Conclusion

 

In summary, skin tags are extremely common harmless growths that can appear anywhere on the body. Though benign, they may bother individuals for cosmetic reasons or if they become frequently irritated.🌭

 

Toothpaste is an inexpensive, accessible home treatment to try removing small skin tags due to its skin-drying ingredients. With consistent application focused only on the skin tag, most will shrivel up and detach within a week or so. 😁

 

While not 100% effective for all skin tags, toothpaste is a safe, easy option to attempt before considering medical procedures. Just be sure to monitor for any worrisome changes and see your doctor if a skin tag does not respond to natural remedies. Professional removal is always an alternative for getting rid of stubborn skin tags quickly.

 

Hopefully this guide gives you all the information needed to try removing pesky skin tags overnight with regular toothpaste conveniently from home. Say goodbye to those annoying tags for smooth, comfortable skin! 👍

 

 FAQs

 

 What is the best toothpaste to use to remove skin tags?

 

Whitening toothpastes tend to work the best as they contain peroxide which helps dry out skin tags. Sensodyne, Colgate Optic White and Crest Whitening toothpastes are good over-the-counter options. Avoid gel toothpastes.

 

 How long does it take for toothpaste to remove a skin tag?

 

Most skin tags can be removed by applying toothpaste daily for 3-7 nights. Larger or thicker skin tags may take up to 2 weeks of consecutive application for the toothpaste to fully detach the tag.

 

 Should I wash off the toothpaste in the morning or leave it on all day?

 

It's best to rinse off the residual toothpaste once you remove the bandage in the morning. Leaving toothpaste on healthy skin can cause burns. Reapply fresh toothpaste each night.

 

 Can I use toothpaste to remove skin tags on my face or near my eyes?

 

Yes, toothpaste works for facial skin tags but care should be taken not to get it in the eyes. Use a cotton swab for more precise application on the face.

 

 Is it normal for the skin tag to turn black and fall off when using toothpaste?

 

A black or darkened skin tag is common after applying toothpaste. This is a sign the skin tag is dying. Leaving it on long enough will cause the tag to detach and shed.

 

 Will using toothpaste to remove a skin tag leave a scar?

 

Generally no, using toothpaste should not scar if only applied to the skin tag and not the surrounding skin. The tag falls off and leaves normal looking skin once healed, with no scar.

 

 Can toothpaste remove all skin tags or just small ones?

 

Toothpaste is most effective at removing smaller skin tags less than 1 cm wide. Larger tags may need repeat applications or may not detach fully with toothpaste alone. Other methods may be required.

 

 Is it safe to use toothpaste when pregnant to remove skin tags?

 

It's best to avoid using toothpaste during pregnancy as its effects on skin tags have not been studied. Check with your doctor about the safest skin tag removal methods while pregnant.

 

 How do I avoid getting toothpaste on healthy skin around the skin tag?

 

Use a cotton swab for precise application. You can also apply petroleum jelly to the area around the skin tag to act as a barrier before applying toothpaste in a thick layer on just the skin tag itself.

 

 What should I do if the skin becomes red and irritated around the skin tag site?

 

Wash the area with soap and water. Apply antibiotic ointment and avoid using toothpaste again. See your doctor if irritation persists more than a few days or spreads.

 

 Is it okay to use toothpaste on genital skin tags?

 

No, the genital region is very sensitive. Using toothpaste on penile, vaginal or anal skin tags could cause painful burns, blistering and scarring. See your doctor for safe removal methods for skin tags in intimate areas.

 

 Can I use toothpaste to remove skin tags on my moles or normal skin?

 

Do not apply toothpaste on moles or healthy skin without blemishes. Toothpaste is only intended to remove raised benign skin tabs, not treat flat moles or skin imperfections. See your dermatologist instead.

 

 What if the skin tag doesn't come off after a week of toothpaste treatment?

 

Some large or longstanding skin tags may not fully detach with toothpaste alone. Try repeating the process for 2 total weeks. If it still doesn't come off, consider trying other home remedies before contacting your doctor for clinical removal.

 

 Is it harmful to swallow a small amount of toothpaste while treating a skin tag on my face?

 

A tiny inadvertent amount of toothpaste is not toxic if swallowed. But do not intentionally ingest toothpaste. Rinse out your mouth after applying paste to facial skin tags as ingesting larger amounts can cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

 

 Can I speed up the toothpaste removal process by also scraping off the skin tag?

 

No, you should never pick, cut, or scrape at a skin tag as that can cause infection or bleeding. Allow the toothpaste to naturally dry out and kill off the skin tag until it is ready to shed safely on its own.

 

 Should I see a doctor if the detached skin tag site doesn't heal after 2 weeks?

 

Yes, contact your healthcare provider if the area where the skin tag fell off remains irritated, oozy, or doesn't fully heal within 2 weeks. This may indicate infection that requires antibiotic treatment to avoid scarring.

 

 What is the youngest age toothpaste can be used to remove a skin tag on a child?

 

Toothpaste should not be used to remove skin tags on children under age 5. See your pediatrician for safe options to remove skin tags on young children. Home remedies are not well studied for safety in very young ages.

 

Hopefully these additional FAQs help cover any other questions you may have about properly using toothpaste to remove skin tags. Don't hesitate to consult your dermatologist if you are ever unsure about applying toothpaste or have a skin tag that seems problematic.