Warts
Rough skin growths caused by a common virus (HPV). Plantar warts on the soles grow inwards and can hurt to walk on. Harmless, and most clear without treatment: about half within 6 months in children, and most within 2 years.
Treatment options
Ratings show how strong the research is.
- Moderate evidenceSalicylic acid paint or gelPharmacy treatment, daily for up to 12 weeks. Soak, file off the dead skin, dry, apply, then cover. Protect nearby skin with petroleum jelly. A modest but definite benefit.
- Limited evidenceFreezing by a doctorLiquid nitrogen every 2 to 3 weeks, often several sessions. Works about as well as salicylic acid but hurts more and can blister.
- Limited evidencePharmacy freezing spraysNot as cold as a doctor’s liquid nitrogen. Little evidence.
- Limited evidenceDuct tapeNo better than placebo in larger trials.
- Limited evidenceSpecialist treatmentsFor stubborn warts: scraping and burning, laser or injections. Higher risk of scarring, and warts can return.
- Not recommendedCutting or burning warts at homeRisk of infection and scarring.
What you can do
- Leaving warts alone is reasonable, especially in children.
- Be patient: most treatments take 6 to 12 weeks.
- Don’t pick or bite warts. Wear thongs in shared showers and don’t share towels or nail files.
- If skin gets sore or red, stop for a few days, then restart.
See your GP if
- Warts are on the face, genitals or around the nails
- You have diabetes, poor circulation or numb feet (don’t self-treat foot warts)
- A growth bleeds, changes quickly or you’re not sure it’s a wart
- You have a weakened immune system
See a doctor promptly if a treated area becomes hot, swollen and increasingly painful, or you develop a fever.
Evidence and more information
maladywise.com/warts/