Social media often promotes homemade remedies—such as banana peels, apple cider vinegar, garlic, or baking soda—with claims that they can make skin tags or warts disappear within days. While these posts are popular, there is no strong scientific evidence that these home remedies reliably or safely remove skin tags or warts.
It’s also important to know that skin tags and warts are different conditions and should not be treated the same way.
Skin Tags vs. Warts
Skin Tags
Skin tags (acrochordons) are:
- Soft, flesh-colored growths
- Usually painless
- Common on the:
- Neck
- Armpits
- Eyelids
- Groin
- Under the breasts
They are not contagious and are harmless.
Warts
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
They may:
- Feel rough
- Have a firm surface
- Appear on the hands, feet, knees, or other areas
- Spread through direct contact
Because they have different causes, skin tags and warts require different treatments.
