What should you know about skin tag toothpaste?

A skin tag is a soft growth that often hangs from a narrow base, commonly where skin rubs against skin or clothing. Toothpaste is made for teeth, not living skin. Its flavouring agents, detergents and other ingredients may cause stinging, redness, dryness or a rash, especially under a dressing or in a skin fold. It does not reliably remove the tissue, and irritation can make it harder to judge whether the growth is actually a skin tag.

Stop using toothpaste if you have applied it, rinse the area gently with lukewarm water, and avoid scrubbing or picking. Do not cut, tie off or burn the growth yourself; bleeding, infection and a noticeable mark can follow. A clinician can examine an uncertain growth and discuss options such as [Skin Tag Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/skin-tag-removal/), [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/) or [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/). The choice depends on its position, size, attachment and your skin history.

Arrange a medical assessment if the growth changes quickly, bleeds without being rubbed, becomes persistently painful, develops an open sore, or has an unusual colour. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever or worsening swelling after a home experiment. These signs can reflect injury or infection, and some growths that resemble skin tags need a different diagnosis.

Ask whether the growth has the typical appearance of a skin tag, which removal method suits its location, how to protect the area afterward, and what changes should prompt a review.