Skin tags are a common skin condition that many people experience at some point in their lives. While they’re completely harmless, skin tags can be annoying, uncomfortable, or even embarrassing—especially when they appear in visible areas like the neck or face. If you’re looking for a gentle, natural remedy to remove skin tags at home, one surprising but popular method involves using a banana peel.
Yes, that’s right—the humble banana peel, often thrown away without a second thought, is believed to have natural properties that may help dry out and remove skin tags over time. In this article, we’ll explore how this remedy works, step-by-step instructions for using it safely, and important precautions to keep in mind.
What Are Skin Tags?
Before diving into the remedy, let’s quickly define what a skin tag is.
A skin tag, medically known as an acrochordon, is a small, benign growth made of collagen and blood vessels surrounded by skin. They often form in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing—like the neck, underarms, groin, eyelids, or under the breasts. While they’re not dangerous or contagious, they can be aesthetically bothersome.
Some common causes of skin tags include:
- Friction from clothing or skin
- Hormonal changes (especially during pregnancy)
- Aging
- Insulin resistance or obesity
- Genetic factors
Doctors can easily remove skin tags with in-office procedures, but if you’re not ready to visit a clinic—or simply prefer a natural option—you might want to try the banana peel method.
Why Banana Peel?
Banana peels contain a variety of natural substances that may support healthy skin, including:
- Enzymes that help break down skin tissue
- Antioxidants that protect against skin irritation
- Moisturizing oils that may soften the skin tag
- Natural acids that gently dry out the skin
While there is no scientific proof that banana peel can cure skin tags, many people have reported success using this simple, gentle method over time.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following items:
- 1 ripe banana peel (cut to the size of the skin tag)
- Medical tape, bandage, or adhesive patch
- Warm water and a clean towel for washing the area
- Optional: antibacterial soap for better hygiene
Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how to use a banana peel to attempt skin tag removal safely at home:
Step 1: Clean the Skin
- Start by washing the area around the skin tag with warm water and a mild soap. Pat it dry with a clean towel. Clean skin helps prevent infection and ensures better contact between the banana peel and your skin.
Step 2: Cut the Peel
- Take a piece of ripe banana peel and cut it so it’s slightly larger than the size of your skin tag. Make sure the inside (white part) of the peel will be in contact with your skin.
Step 3: Apply the Peel
- Place the white side of the peel directly onto the skin tag. The peel should fully cover the growth.
Step 4: Secure It
- Use medical tape, a small bandage, or an adhesive patch to hold the peel in place. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight.
Step 5: Leave It Overnight
- Keep the banana peel on the skin tag overnight—ideally for 6–8 hours. This gives the natural enzymes and acids time to work.
Step 6: Clean and Repeat
- In the morning, remove the peel and wash the area with warm water. Dry gently with a towel. Repeat this process every night for 2–3 weeks or until the skin tag dries up and falls off naturally.
How Long Will It Take?
Results vary from person to person. Some people notice the skin tag shrinking in size after a week, while others may take two to three weeks of consistent treatment before seeing results. Keep in mind that this is a slow and natural process, so patience is essential.
Important Safety Precautions
While banana peel is a gentle, natural method, you still need to take safety seriously when treating any skin issue at home. Here are some important reminders:
- Never attempt to cut off a skin tag yourself. Doing so can cause bleeding, infection, or scarring.
- Stop immediately if the area becomes red, swollen, painful, or shows any sign of infection.
- Do not use this method near the eyes, inside the mouth, or in sensitive areas like the genitals.
- If the skin tag changes color, shape, or grows rapidly, it’s best to consult a doctor to rule out other skin conditions.
- This method is not suitable for people with banana allergies or extremely sensitive skin.
When to See a Doctor
While natural remedies can be helpful, some skin tags may be better treated by a medical professional—especially if they are large, painful, or in awkward places. A dermatologist can remove them quickly using techniques like:
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Cauterization (burning)
- Ligation (tying off)
- Excision (cutting with sterile tools)
If you’re uncertain whether your growth is a skin tag or something else, always get it examined.
Natural Doesn’t Always Mean Fast
Many people turn to natural remedies like banana peels because they prefer gentle, chemical-free solutions. While this method may work for some, it’s important to manage your expectations. Banana peel treatment takes time, consistency, and patience—but for those who want to avoid more invasive methods, it may be worth trying.
Final Thoughts
Using a banana peel to remove a skin tag is a simple, affordable, and non-invasive method that many people have found effective. Though not scientifically confirmed, it relies on the idea that natural enzymes and compounds in the peel may help dry out the tag over time. If you’re looking for a natural, DIY solution, it’s a safe method to try—so long as you monitor your skin and follow precautions.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before beginning any skin treatment, especially if you have concerns about the type or appearance of any growth.