Warts are common, benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), often appearing on hands and feet. Over-the-counter (OTC) wart removers offer a common self-treatment option. This guide clarifies how long these products should be used for safe and effective results.
Understanding Typical Usage Durations
The duration of wart treatment varies by active ingredient and wart type. Salicylic acid products, available as creams, gels, or patches, require consistent daily application. Complete wart removal with these treatments often takes 6 to 12 weeks. Consistent application allows the acid to gradually peel away layers of the wart.
Cryotherapy kits, which freeze the wart, generally involve fewer applications. These kits typically recommend one application every 1 to 2 weeks, with 3 to 4 treatments often sufficient. Always follow product instructions, as durations can differ between brands. Larger or older warts may require a longer treatment period.
Recognizing Progress and Knowing When to Stop
As treatment progresses, visual cues indicate the wart remover is working. The wart may shrink, flatten, or change color, often turning white, dark, or black. Small black dots, which are clotted blood vessels, may also become visible as the wart dies. The wart tissue may also soften and begin to peel or flake off.
Discontinue treatment once the wart has completely disappeared and the treated skin appears normal, blending with surrounding skin. If the maximum recommended treatment period on the product packaging has been reached without resolution, stop. Continuing treatment beyond this point or after the wart is gone can irritate healthy skin, leading to soreness or bleeding.
When Professional Advice is Needed
Consult a healthcare professional if self-treating a wart is not advisable. Professional evaluation is warranted if the wart shows no improvement or worsens after the maximum recommended treatment period. Similarly, medical intervention may be necessary if new warts appear or existing warts spread despite ongoing treatment.
Seek medical advice if the wart or surrounding skin becomes painful, red, swollen, or shows signs of infection. If uncertain about a growth, or if it is unusual, bleeding, or changing, a doctor can diagnose. Warts on sensitive areas like the face, genitals, or near the eyes should always be assessed and treated by a healthcare professional. Individuals with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system should consult a doctor before self-treating.