Can Vitamin A (Vitamin A) be used to remove skin tags?

Vitamin A for Skin Tags: Not Recommended

There is no evidence supporting the use of vitamin A for removing skin tags. Based on available guidelines and research, vitamin A and its derivatives are not indicated for the treatment of skin tags.

Understanding Skin Tags

Skin tags (acrochordons) are benign skin growths that typically appear in areas of skin folds such as the neck, armpits, groin, and eyelids. They are:

• Commonly associated with obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypothyroidism 1
• Not medically dangerous but may cause cosmetic concerns or irritation

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Current dermatological guidelines do not recommend vitamin A for skin tag removal. The British Association of Dermatologists and American Academy of Dermatology guidelines do not include vitamin A or retinoids as treatments for skin tags.

Recommended Treatments for Skin Tags:

1. Cryosurgery - Freezing with liquid nitrogen (effective for up to 75% of lesions) 2
2. Surgical excision - Complete removal of the skin tag 2
3. Electrocautery - Burning off the skin tag with electric current

Why Vitamin A Is Not Recommended:

• No clinical trials support vitamin A for skin tag removal
• Topical retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) are primarily indicated for:
  • Acne vulgaris 2, 3
  • Actinic keratoses 2
  • Photoaging 2
  • Ichthyosis 2

Potential Risks of Inappropriate Vitamin A Use

Using vitamin A inappropriately for skin tags could lead to:

1. Skin irritation - Topical retinoids commonly cause redness, peeling, and irritation 2
2. Hypervitaminosis A - High-dose oral vitamin A can cause toxicity with symptoms including skin dryness, hair loss, and liver damage 4
3. Contact dermatitis - Topical vitamin E (often combined with vitamin A in products) caused contact dermatitis in 33% of patients in one study 5

Addressing Associated Conditions

If you have multiple skin tags, consider screening for associated conditions:

• Obesity (weight management may help prevent new skin tags)
• Diabetes mellitus
• Hyperlipidemia (particularly high cholesterol, which showed significant association with skin tags) 1
• Hypothyroidism 1

When to Seek Medical Attention

Consult a dermatologist if:

• You're uncertain about the diagnosis
• The skin tag changes in appearance, color, or size
• You experience bleeding or pain from the skin tag
• You desire removal for cosmetic reasons

Remember that only a healthcare professional should remove skin tags to ensure proper technique and minimize scarring or infection risk.