Tea Tree Oil for Skin Tags: Benefits and Use

Anecdotal evidence suggests that using tea tree oil may dry out skin tags. However, there is no scientific evidence that this works, and it’s not recommended to use home remedies to remove skin tags.

Tea tree oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves of the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia).

The aboriginal people of Australia have used it for thousands of years. They relied on its antiseptic power to help treat wounds and fight infections.

Perhaps because tea tree oil is often used as a home remedy to help treat athlete’s foot, acne, and fungal infections, a belief developed that it might also be useful in treating skin tags. These are painless, flesh-colored growths that hang off the skin. They’re very common but can be unsightly and uncomfortable when they grow in delicate locations such as the eyelids, groin, and armpits.

That said, the evidence doesn’t show that the oil can help get rid of skin tags. In addition, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) doesn’t recommend using home remedies to remove them. Skin tags are not harmful, but if you want to remove them for aesthetic reasons, you’ll need to see a dermatologist.

There’s no scientific evidence to support claims that tea tree oil works for skin tags. But here’s what we do know about its potential health benefits:

A 2023 review examined available research on the health benefits of tea tree oil and included 9 studies that specifically looked at its benefits for the skin.

Among the findings, tea tree oil-based gels were found to be beneficial for treating mild to moderate acne with minimal side effects.

Other studies investigated the use of tea tree oil for wound healing, seborrheic dermatitis, and skin photoaging, with mostly positive results and without any reported side effects. A daily 5% tea tree oil shampoo also appeared to be effective in treating dandruff.

But, none of the studies examined the benefits of tea tree oil for skin tags or any related condition, and no other research confirms that the oil might be beneficial for the condition.

Learn more: How does tea tree oil help the skin?

The 2023 review did find other benefits to tea tree oil outside of dermatology (skin). According to numerous cited studies, tea tree oil may have antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, and immune-boosting properties.

In diluted form, it may also be beneficial for your teeth, as it may help decrease dental plaque and reduce gum inflammation.

Certain products containing tea tree oil, such as wipes and shampoo, may help reduce eyelash mites, though not every product tested was equally effective.

Learn more: 14 everyday uses for tea tree oil.

Some people may experience mild skin reactions when applying tea tree oil to their skin. To limit the chance of this, use products that contain tea tree oil, such as creams or shampoo, or dilute the oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil.

And before using it to treat your skin tag, always perform a patch test:

If you experience a reaction, don’t use tea tree oil.

Diluted tea tree oil is considered generally safe when used externally.

That said, never ingest tea tree oil in any form. Drinking it can cause a serious reaction, including confusion and loss of muscle coordination.

Also, never use undiluted tea tree oil near your eyes.

Learn more: What are the possible side effects of tea tree oil?

Skin tags typically don’t require removal unless they become irritated, affect eyesight, or cause sudden pain. They can become irritated if they rub against clothing or jewelry or if you nick them during shaving.

Don’t try to remove skin tags yourself at home. It may be tempting to use a wart remover, but warts are harder than skin tags, so this method is much too harsh and can actually cause more damage.

The best way to get skin tags removed is with a dermatologist. They can remove them using methods such as cryosurgery, electrodesiccation, or snipping.

Learn more: Everything to know about skin tag removal.

Tea tree oil has many medicinal uses, but treating skin tags isn’t a traditional one. Moreover, experts don’t recommend removing skin tags yourself. Instead, speak with your doctor about in-office procedures to remove skin tags.