Salicylic Acid for Warts

When it comes to skin problems, we often look for simple treatment options that does not necessarily require an appointment to a doctor. Methods like cryotherapy demand supervision of a licensed doctor and many times do not produce the desired result. An easy home remedy involves use of salicylic acid that has shown positive results for the treatment of acne, psoriasis, dermatitis and warts. Topical salicylic acid for warts is a hassle free way to get rid of this skin disorder.

Warts are abnormal cauliflower shaped skin growths that occur when the human papillomavirus invades the uppermost layer of the skin (epidermis). When the viral infection causes the formation of skin eruptions on the soles of the feet, the condition is referred as plantar warts. On the whole, the most common sites where wart is seen are the hands, legs and the feet. Raised surfaces occurring on the external sex organs such as the vagina or the penis are known as genital warts.

Salicylic acid is an over the counter product and easily available at various drug stores. These products are sold under various brands and is available in the form of lotion, liquid, ointment and gel. Those available over the counter, contain around 15-17% of salicylic acid whereas products containing 65-70% salicylic acid cannot be purchased without a doctor's prescription. When these skin growths are not too many, and the condition is not severe, one can always rely on over-the-counter medications.

For best results, before you apply salicylic acid on the affected area, moisten it with warm water for 3-4 minutes. This way the acid gets absorbed in a better way. In other words, salicylic acid penetrates deep into the warts, which helps to reduce healing time. After applying the acid, you may put a bandage over it. One has to use it daily, and not once in a while, to make the warts disappear. In case, warts do not show any improvement with over the counter products, a prescription medicine (after consulting a doctor) containing a higher concentration of salicylic acid may help to resolve the issue. As the skin heals, there is formation of dry skin. Use a pumice stone to get rid of these dead skin tissues. Also, each time you use salicylic acid, do not forget to dampen and clean the common warts before application.

Caution

People suffering from diabetes should refrain from using salicylic acid. Applying it on the sensitive areas on the skin such as the face and the groin is also not safe and so some other warts treatment at home, has to be used when it occurs at these sites. A point to note, although salicylic acid for plantar warts is helpful for treating this type of skin disorder, do not expect it to cure warts overnight. One has to apply this medication daily for weeks, in order to remove warts. Also, when warts affect the genital area, one cannot use salicylic, as it can irritate the skin. So, the option of using salicylic acid for genital warts must be discarded.

Keep in mind that application of salicylic acid has to be restricted to the affected area and not anywhere else. Persistent irritation is likely to occur when it touches the healthy tissues of the skin. On the whole, using it correctly is the key to eliminate warts effectively.