Skin tags are small, soft, benign growths that often appear in places like the neck, armpits, or under the breasts. While they’re harmless, many people feel self-conscious about them and look for simple, natural ways to minimize their appearance. One home remedy that’s been passed down through generations is garlic. Yes, the same ingredient you use in your kitchen may have a reputation for supporting skin health—including helping with unwanted skin tags.
But how effective is garlic, really? In this article, we explore how garlic may help with skin tags, the science behind it, and how to use it safely at home—while keeping expectations realistic.
What Are Skin Tags?
Before jumping into remedies, it helps to understand what skin tags are. Medically known as acrochordons, skin tags are small, flesh-colored growths made up of collagen and blood vessels. They often develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing.
Common causes include:
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Friction (from clothing or skin folds)
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Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy)
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Age (more common after 40)
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Insulin resistance or being overweight
Although skin tags are noncancerous and don’t usually require treatment, people often want to remove them for cosmetic reasons or if they become irritated.
Why Garlic? The History Behind This Remedy
Garlic (Allium sativum) has been used in folk medicine for centuries. It’s best known for supporting heart health and immunity, but it’s also been applied topically in traditional remedies due to its natural compounds, such as allicin, which has been studied for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Some people believe that garlic may help dry out skin tags naturally over time. It’s thought that certain sulfur compounds in garlic may help break down the overgrowth of skin tissue when applied consistently.
Though research on garlic specifically for skin tags is limited, its broad use in skin care and traditional healing makes it an interesting topic for anyone seeking a natural route.
How Garlic May Work on Skin Tags
While garlic is not a proven medical treatment for skin tags, some of its natural properties may support the skin’s appearance in the following ways:
1. Drying Effect
Garlic can be slightly acidic and may help dry out the skin tag, eventually causing it to shrink or fall off. This is similar to how some over-the-counter skin tag removers work—by breaking down skin cells slowly.
2. Natural Antioxidants
Garlic is rich in allicin, which may help protect skin from oxidative stress and promote overall skin clarity. Antioxidants can support healing and reduce skin irritation.
3. Potential Antimicrobial Action
According to WebMD and Healthline, garlic has natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties. When used topically, it may help keep the skin around the tag clean and reduce the chance of irritation or infection.
It’s important to keep in mind that while these effects sound promising, garlic has not been officially approved for skin tag removal by dermatological associations, and more research is needed to confirm its role in this specific use.
How to Use Garlic for Skin Tags (Safely)
If you’re interested in trying garlic at home, do so carefully. Garlic is a potent ingredient and can irritate the skin, especially if left on for too long.
DIY Garlic Paste Method:
What you’ll need:
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1 fresh clove of garlic
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A small bandage or medical tape
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Petroleum jelly or coconut oil (optional)
Steps:
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Clean the skin tag area with warm water and dry it gently.
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Crush one garlic clove into a fine paste.
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(Optional) Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the skin tag to protect nearby skin.
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Place a small amount of garlic paste directly on the skin tag.
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Cover with a bandage to keep it in place.
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Leave on for 30 minutes to 1 hour, then wash off completely with warm water.
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Repeat once daily for 5–7 days.
Important safety tips:
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Always do a patch test first (apply garlic to a small area of your forearm for 15 minutes and monitor for irritation).
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Never leave garlic on overnight—it can cause burns on sensitive skin.
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Stop use immediately if you notice redness, stinging, or discomfort.
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Do not apply to broken or bleeding skin.
If the skin tag does not change after a week—or becomes painful or inflamed—it’s best to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
What Results Can You Expect?
Results vary depending on the size and location of the skin tag, as well as your skin’s sensitivity. Some people report that the skin tag dries out and falls off after several days of garlic use, while others may see no change.
What garlic may help with:
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Slight drying or shrinking of the skin tag
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Keeping the area clean and less irritated
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Feeling empowered by a gentle, natural skincare option
However, it’s not a quick fix, and garlic won’t work for everyone. For larger or stubborn skin tags, medical removal is a safer, more reliable choice.
When to See a Dermatologist
If you’re unsure whether a growth is a skin tag, or if it changes in size, color, or shape, it’s important to have it checked. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, any sudden or unusual change in skin lesions should be examined by a professional to rule out other conditions.
You should also skip at-home remedies and consult a doctor if:
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The tag is bleeding or painful
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It’s located near the eyes or genitals
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You have very sensitive skin or known allergies
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You’ve had past skin reactions to garlic or similar ingredients
Medical options for skin tag removal include cryotherapy (freezing), cauterization, or simple excision—all performed in a controlled, sterile setting.
Natural Doesn’t Mean Harmless: Use Caution
Garlic is powerful and beneficial in many ways, but using it topically requires care. Like any natural remedy, it’s not a replacement for medical advice, and results can vary based on your unique skin type and health history.
That said, when used correctly and cautiously, garlic can be a budget-friendly, chemical-free way to support your skincare goals—especially if you’re looking to explore traditional methods before moving on to clinical treatments.
Curious to try it? Start with a small test and see how your skin responds.
Know someone who prefers natural skin care? Share this article with them!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making health changes or trying new skin treatments.