Warts, an abnormal skin growth, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts usually show up on the hands or feet, although they can pop up on other body areas. The Child Development Institute says that 50 percent of kids develop warts at some point. They usually disappear on their own, but parents often opt to remove them because they are unattractive and may tempt the child to pick or scratch, which can spread them.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy, or freezing, is a popular way to remove kids' warts. It is the treatment of choice among pediatricians, according to the Child Development Institute, and parents can also do it at home with over-the-counter kits. It suits kids well because it often works in just one treatment, although it can take two or more freezing sessions. Doctors use liquid nitrogen, while home kits contain a less powerful freezing agent.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid can be used to treat warts in older children who can tolerate long-term treatment. It comes in a liquid form that is dabbed on and covered with a bandage or in pads that are already impregnated with the acid. It must be applied to the wart regularly, and the child must be willing to leave the pad or bandage in place.
Cantharidin
Cantharidin is used by some doctors to remove warts on kids. It is painless when the doctor applies it, the Child Development Institute explains, but it can cause painful blisters later as it kills the wart tissue. This makes it more suitable for use in older children who can understand and handle the process.
Duct Tape
Research has proved that duct tape effectively removes warts, according to the Mayo Clinic, which states that this method is often used with younger kids who may be afraid of cryotherapy. A study showed that covering warts with a piece of duct tape for six days, followed by soaking in water and rubbing with an emery board or pumice stone, worked better than freezing. The process has to be repeated until the warts are gone, which can take up to eight weeks. The child must be willing to leave the duct tape in place and to have the dead skin rubbed away in between reapplications.
Laser Treatment/Surgery
Laser treatment or surgery may be used as a last resort for removing a kid's wart, KidsHealth.org states. Several laser may be necessary to get rid of especially deep warts. Surgery is generally the last choice because it may leave a scar that stays on the child's skin throughout his life.
