Skin tags may be tiny, but for many older adults, they can be bothersome—both physically and emotionally. If you’re over 60 and care about keeping your skin healthy, it’s important to know which treatments are safe, effective, and backed by evidence.

You may have heard about “natural” home remedies like lemon juice or ginger for removing skin tags. While they sound simple, dermatologists and trusted health organizations like the Mayo Clinic and Harvard Health warn that these methods can do more harm than good—especially for mature skin.

This guide explains why seniors are more prone to skin tags, the truth about common myths, and the safest, most effective ways to manage them.

Why Seniors Are More Likely to Get Skin Tags

Skin tags are small, soft, harmless growths that often appear on areas where skin rubs together—like the neck, underarms, or groin. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that nearly half of adults over 60 have them.

For seniors, these little growths can be more than a cosmetic concern. They may snag on clothing, cause irritation, or lower self-confidence. Conditions like diabetes or naturally thinner skin with age can make safe management even more important.

The Lemon and Ginger Myth

It’s common to see claims that lemon’s acidity or ginger’s natural enzymes can “dissolve” skin tags. But clinical research shows no evidence these remedies actually work.

Lemon juice may cause burning, redness, or inflammation.
Ginger can trigger allergic reactions or rashes.

A 2018 Journal of Clinical Dermatology study found that acidic or herbal DIY treatments caused skin irritation in 1 in 10 people—without improving the skin tags themselves. Seniors, whose skin heals more slowly, are especially at risk for infection or scarring.