There are several effective ways to remove warts, including at-home treatments and professional medical options.

At-Home Wart Removal Methods

• Salicylic Acid: Applying salicylic acid daily after soaking the wart in warm water helps peel away the wart gradually. It is available in gels, liquids, and patches and may take weeks to fully work. Use concentrations from 17% to 40%, with stronger doses for thicker skin. File away dead skin gently between treatments. Stop if the skin becomes sore.

• Duct Tape: Covering the wart with duct tape for several days, then soaking and gently removing dead tissue, may help remove warts. This is a low-risk method, though evidence of effectiveness varies. Some suggest using silver duct tape.

• Over-the-Counter Freezing Kits: Nonprescription freezing treatments like Compound W Freeze Off can be used to freeze the wart at home, similar to cryotherapy performed by professionals. Care must be taken as some products are flammable.

• Natural Remedies: Some try remedies like applying diluted apple cider vinegar, crushed garlic, banana peel, or other household items, but scientific evidence is limited for these.

Medical and Professional Wart Removal

• Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen applied by a healthcare professional to freeze the wart causing it to blister and fall off. May require multiple treatments.

• Prescription Medications: Options like 5-fluorouracil or candida antigen injections may be used for stubborn warts.

• Other Treatments: Laser therapy, acids like trichloroacetic acid, and surgical removal with a curette are also possible when other methods fail.

General Wart Care Tips

• Cover warts to prevent spreading.
• Wash hands after touching warts.
• Be patient as warts may take weeks to months to disappear, and some disappear spontaneously within one to two years.

In summary, starting with salicylic acid or duct tape at home is common, and medical options are available if warts persist or cause problems.