How to Treat Warts

Warts are commonly caused by a viral infection, and they are highly contagious. However, they are relatively easy to treat with over-the-counter products and with help from medical professionals. Learn how to treat warts in this video.

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Use over-the-counter salicylic acid paste
Consultant a doctor if warts persist
Medical treatments for warts include liquid nitrogen, topical creams, & injecting medications into the infected area

About this Author

Lisa Rhodes, M.D. received her medical degree from the University of Texas Health and Science Center in San Antonio, where she graduated valedictorian. She completed her dermatology residency at North Western University in Chicago and currently works in Austin, Texas. Her favorite part of her job is diagnosing skin conditions and treating them in order to help patients live better lives.

DR. LISA RHODES: Hi, I'm Doctor Lisa Rhodes with Westlake Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. Warts are benign overgrowth of skin caused by an infection with the virus. They're very common on the hands, on the lower legs and on the bottom of the feet. Treatment can be difficult but a good first line treatment is over-the-counter salicylic acid paste. What that does is it causes the skin to get a little peely and wet white and that will peel off and hopefully remove that viral load and thin the skin there where it's thickened up kind of protecting itself and hopefully get rid of the wart. If that doesn't do the trick, I recommend seeing your primary care doctor or your dermatologist for further treatment. Further treatments can include treating with liquid nitrogen, treating with topical irritating creams or injecting medications into the wart, hopefully augmenting or helping the immune system to fight off the virus.

How to Treat Warts Video

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