Wart Removal with Salicylic Acid: Dermatologist Guide

Warts are small, rough skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and face. Facial warts tend to be small and flat, while those on the hands and feet can grow larger. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of removing large warts on the hands and feet using salicylic acid solutions. Please note, this treatment should be used under a doctor’s prescription for safe and effective results.

What is it? Prescribed solution for warts

Who can use? It can be used for age above 18 years of age. For children beween 10-17 years, the solution has to be applied by parents.

Which part of body? Warts on hands and feet only

Category:

Regime

Tag:

wart

Description

Salicylic Acid for Warts

Salicylic acid 17% is commonly prescribed by dermatologists for treating warts. It works by softening the skin layers, causing the wart to gradually peel off. While it is available over-the-counter (OTC) in the United States, in India it should only be used with a doctor’s prescription and under strict medical supervision. Many patients often misuse it, leading to ineffective results. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it correctly:

Step 1: Soak
Soak the affected area in warm water for 5-10 minutes. This softens the skin and helps with the absorption of the salicylic acid in the wart treatment.

Step 2: Rub
Gently exfoliate the wart with a pumice stone. Be careful not to apply too much pressure—you shouldn’t feel any pain during this process.

Step 3: Dry
Ensure the wart area is completely dry before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Protect
Apply a thick layer of Vaseline jelly around the wart to protect the surrounding healthy skin from irritation caused by the salicylic acid.

Step 5: Apply

Apply warts paint exactly over the warts and wait until dry. This liquid is made of the colloidal base that is thick enough to stay in the area applied and it dries very fast reducing the chances of spillage to surrounding skin.

Step 6: Remove Softened Skin
Once the wart softens, carefully trim any loose or hanging pieces of skin using scissors or a nail cutter. Avoid cutting intact skin.

Step 7: Repeat
Apply the salicylic acid daily and remain consistent, as it may take several weeks for the wart to disappear.

Step 8: Stop if Necessary
Continue treatment until you can see your fingerprints or natural skin texture return, which indicates the wart is gone. However, if your skin becomes red, soft, irritated, or painful, stop applying salicylic acid and take a break until the symptoms subside.

Who Should Avoid Using It?

Individuals under 18 years of age.
Do not apply on the face, neck, or other thin areas with thin skin, as it may cause irritation or burns.
Avoid using it if you have more than 7-10 warts, as the large amount of solution needed could lead to toxicity.
Lack of dextrity to apply solution exactly on warts.

Which brand? You doctor will decide it. Salactin is one such option.

Boosting Your Immunity

Since warts are caused by a virus (HPV), taking immunity-boosting supplements can help your body fight off the virus and prevent recurrence. Strengthening your immune system plays a key role in eliminating warts and keeping them from coming back.

Which brand? Choose a brand with high dose Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin D for maximum benefit, for example