Removing Skin Tags with Nail Polish

Removing skin tags with nail polish is a popular suggested method that is circling around the Internet. The theory behind it is that the nail polish creates a non-breathable barrier over the skin tag that suffocates it. This causes the blood flow to the skin tag to slow down and the skin tag to eventually shrivel up and fall off. The main reason for removing skin tags with nail polish becoming popular is due to the cost and convenience of it. Most households have a bottle of clear nail polish at home, so they can begin treatment right away and don’t need to outlay any money. We do not recommend this method for a number of reasons. Firstly, let’s look at the method used to remove skin tags with nail polish so you understand a bit more about the process and why we don’t advise it

The Method

Removing skin tags with nail polish involves using a clear nail polish (just because it is less conspicuous than a colored nail polish) to paint the whole skin tag while avoiding painting the healthy skin. You apply the polish twice a da, first in the morning and the second at night. Then the next day with a q-tip soaked in acetone, remove the previous layers of nail polish. Then apply a fresh layer starting the process again. You need to do this for about 2 weeks.

Why removing skin tags with nail polish is not advised

Skin Tag
Skin tag

Not all nail polishes are created equal. Different companies use different chemicals in their nail polish, many of which can be harmful and are easily absorbed into the body through skin. Nails are made of keratin, which, while still porous are less absorbent than the skin. Nail polish is not intended for use on the skin. Even though you are applying small amounts at a time, letting fresh polish sit on your skin for weeks makes it more likely for some be absorbed through the skin and into your bloodstream. There is no need to take this additional risk when there are so many other options available to safely remove skin tags.

In addition to the constant applications of nail polish, you also need to remove that polish daily. This requires further applying acetone to your skin. This will also have harsh effects on your skin and dries it out.

This is also not a proven to work method. Like many home treatments, the results will depend on your skin type and your consistency with the method. You may find that after 2 weeks of applying nail polish and acetone, the skin tag is still holding strong. 

Alternative options for removing skin tags.

Natural – If you are looking for a cost-effective and convenient option for removing skin tags, there are a wide range of natural remedies to try. These again are not guaranteed to work, but many people have had success with them. They are much better for you and your skin than removing skin tags with nail polish.

Visit to the doctor – If it is in your budget, removing skin tags in the doctor’s office is your best choice. They will usually either cut off the skin tag surgically with a scalpel or a blade or they may use cryotherapy and freeze off the skin tag using liquid nitrogen. Some doctors may choose to remove the skin tag using a heat tipped device, called cauterization. Your doctor will choose the best method for you based on the size of your skin tag, the location of it and your skin type. One of the main reasons some people don’t choose this route is because skin tag removal, of healthy skin tags, is not covered by insurance and are considered a cosmetic procedure and can, therefore, cost hundreds of dollars.

Ligation – This is another popular home remedy. Otherwise known as tying off a skin tag. Using something like dental floss or Tagbands, you cut off the blood supply to the skin tag. Tying the floss or band tightly the base of the skin tag causes it to shrivel up and fall off. This is another cost-effective method that can be done from the comfort of your home.

 

References:
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/es980592%2B

https://www.ewg.org/release/duke-ewg-study-finds-toxic-nail-polish-chemical-women-s-bodies#.WzonWdIzbIV

 

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