The same guidelines your doctors use. Treat cutaneous warts effectively with over-the-counter options like salicylic acid (17–40%), applied daily after soaking the wart, or cryotherapy products for freezing small warts at home. For larger or persistent warts, professional treatments like photodynamic therapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal may be recommended.
January 9, 2025

Skin Warts: At-Home Removal

Evidence-Based Over-The-Counter Guide

William Shen

William Shen

Co-founder & CPO

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Cutaneous warts are benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are most commonly found on hands, feet, and other areas subjected to friction. Most warts resolve within 2 years, but treatment can be considered if desired for comfort, aesthetics, etc.

Note that these over-the-counter recommendations do not apply to genital warts as they can lead to scarring, infection, or significant pain.

First-line recommendations: 

  • Salicylic acid: Softens and exfoliates the wart. Solution or patch (17-40%): Apply daily after soaking the wart in warm water for 5-10 minutes. Salicylic acid 17% gel (FDA M028). 

  • Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with dimethyl ether and propane products. This can be done at home for small warts or in the doctor’s office with liquid nitrogen. FDA-cleared Cryotherapy (FDA 510(k) K052259).

Medical interventions:

  • Photodynamic Therapy: Uses a photosensitizing agent and light to destroy wart tissue.

  • Topical Immunotherapy: Activates the immune system to attack the wart.

  • Laser Therapy: Targets and destroys wart tissue with focused light.

  • Surgical Removal: Physically excises or cauterizes the wart.

Citations:

Mulhem E, Pinelis S. Treatment of nongenital cutaneous warts. Am Fam Physician. 2011; 84(3): p.288-93. pmid: 21842775.

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