Plantar warts, or warts on the feet, do not represent a serious medical problems, but they can cause pain and discomfort on a daily basis. Removing your warts will improve physical comfort and the appearance of your feet. According to the Mayo Clinic, plantar warts are non-cancerous growths that can be treated at home or with the help of a physician.
Duct Tape
Step 1
Apply duct tape to your warts, making sure to keep the infected area completely covered for six days. According to Mayo Clinic, duct tape can remove warts more effectively than freezing away warts.
Step 2
Soak your foot in water. Submerge your feet entirely and soak your foot long enough for the water to soften the warts.
Step 3
Remove dead skin on the warts. Use a nail file or a pumice stone to buff away the top layer of dead skin cells. Apply gentle pressure, and stop if you feel any pain during buffing.
Cryotherapy
Step 1
Consult your doctor about whether you should consider having him freeze your warts off, or if you can do the procedure at home. According to Mayo Clinic, doctors can use a lower temperature to freeze off warts in a process called cryotherapy, which can be more effective than home treatment.
Step 2
Purchase and over the counter wart freezing compound if your doctor gives you permission. Follow the instructions on the product label to freeze your warts away.
Step 3
Prevent infection and new warts. Follow your doctor's care instructions after cryotherapy. Keep the infected areas clean and dry.
Salicylic Acid Treatment
Step 1
Buff dead skin away before each shower. Use a nail file or pumice stone to remove dry, dead skin from the top of the warts.
Step 2
Clean your feet in the shower. Use a towel to pat your feet dry. Leave the area around the warts partially damp.
Step 3
Apply salicylic acid directly onto your warts. Saturate a cotton ball and apply thoroughly. Repeat this method until your warts are gone.
Cantharidin Treatment
Step 1
Complete cantharidin treatment with your doctor. During this treatment, cantharidin solution is applied to the warts and covered with a bandage for up to 24 hours.
Step 2
Visit your doctor for a follow-up appointment. The doctor will remove any dead skin cells from the warts. He may also recommend another application of cantharidin to remove any additional warts.
Step 3
Follow your doctor's after care instructions and avoid picking at your warts. According to Family Doctor, cantharidin causes blistering of the warts, which can cause discomfort 3 to 8 hours after application. Do not pick at the blisters or apply any additional chemicals to the treated area.
Tips and Warnings
- Call your doctor if home treatments and topical remedies do not remove the warts. Your doctor can use minor surgery, burning methods or laser surgery to remove the warts.
- Avoid getting salicylic acid on healthy skin. According to Mayo Clinic, the solution can cause irritation. Never attempt cut, burn, pick or tear warts off at home.
Things You'll Need
- Duct tape
- Nail file or pumice stone
- Salicylic acid
- Cotton balls
