Can anal skin tags heal on their own?

Sep 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Jingxiang

Introduction

In general, whether anal skin tags can heal on their own depends on the specific circumstances. Mild skin tags caused by temporary factors such as short-term bowel dysfunction or prolonged sitting may resolve spontaneously once the underlying cause is eliminated. However, skin tags resulting from conditions like hemorrhoids typically do not heal on their own and require targeted treatment. It is important to maintain anal hygiene by washing the area with warm water after each bowel movement.

Generally speaking, whether anal skin tags can heal on their own depends on the specific circumstances. Mild skin tags caused by temporary factors such as short-term bowel dysfunction or prolonged sitting may resolve spontaneously once the causative factors are removed; however, skin tags caused by conditions like hemorrhoids typically cannot heal on their own and require targeted treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If the anal skin tag is caused by temporary swelling due to straining during bowel movements during short-term constipation, diarrhea irritating the anal mucosa, or poor local circulation from prolonged sitting, it is likely to heal on its own. In such cases, timely improvement of bowel habits, maintaining smooth bowel movements, and avoiding prolonged sitting to allow adequate rest for the anal tissues can help gradually relieve the local swelling, and the skin tag may then subside.

When anal skin tags are caused by underlying diseases, they typically do not resolve spontaneously. If the skin tag is due to hemorrhoids—particularly external hemorrhoids or the external component of mixed hemorrhoids—the tag consists of varicose venous tissue or hyperplastic connective tissue that will not shrink or disappear on its own. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as pain during bowel movements or rectal bleeding, and medical intervention is required for treatment.

To promote anal health, aid in the spontaneous resolution of mild skin tags, or prevent worsening of existing tags, proper daily care is essential. Keep the anal area clean and wash with warm water after each bowel movement.

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How to eliminate external hemorrhoids and anal skin tags

External hemorrhoidal skin tags may be caused by factors such as prolonged sitting or standing, poor dietary habits, varicose veins, perianal inflammation, and increased intra-abdominal pressure. To prevent the occurrence of this condition, it is recommended to engage in appropriate physical exercise in daily life and avoid prolonged sitting or standing. At the same time, adjust your diet by consuming more foods rich in dietary fiber and avoiding spicy and irritating foods.

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There is a small flesh-colored bump around the anus, causing no pain or itching.

In general, the main causes of small anal skin tags (painless and non-itchy) include prolonged sitting or standing, constipation, external hemorrhoids, rectal polyps, and rectal prolapse. If this symptom occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a reputable hospital to determine the specific cause. In daily life, it is important to maintain anal hygiene and keep the area clean and dry, wear loose and breathable underwear, establish regular bowel habits, and avoid excessive straining during bowel movements.

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Will a anal skin tag disappear on its own?

In general, whether a perianal skin tag will disappear on its own depends on the specific circumstances. Mild skin tags caused by temporary factors such as constipation or diarrhea may resolve spontaneously once the underlying cause is eliminated. However, skin tags resulting from conditions like hemorrhoids typically do not disappear without treatment and require targeted management. To promote perianal health, alleviate mild discomfort, or prevent worsening of skin tags, appropriate measures are recommended.

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What should I do if there's a fleshy lump in the anal area?

In general, a lump in the anal area may be caused by prolonged sitting, constipation, prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, edematous external hemorrhoids, prolapsed rectal polyps, or other similar reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general treatment, medication, surgical intervention, or other appropriate methods. In daily life, it is important to maintain anal hygiene and avoid using rough toilet paper for wiping.