The vast majority of warts can be treated by over-the-counter medications, creams and lotions. In some cases though, your warts may be resistent to these types of aids. If so, there are other wart removal options that can be effective as well.
The most common and effective at home wart removal remedy is salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is found in medicated pads, lotions, creams and other forms of skin care applications. It is quite effective in treating warts due to its ability to get deep inside the follicle. When used properly, salicycic acid helps shed dead skin cells and clears up the pores.
For the best results using this method, it's best soak the wart in warm water for about ten minutes and gently smooth out the surface of the infected area with an emory board before applictaion. Following these two simple tips will make effective wart removal much more likely. Also, before applying the medication, rub some petroleum jelly on the surrounding area to help protect this healthy skin from any potential side effects that the salicylic acid might cause.
Once you have prepared the wart and the surrounding area for treatment, follow the directions for the particular wart removal medication that you purchased. Once properly applied, another effective trick is to cover the wart with a bandage to help it better absorb the medication. With most salicylic acid based medications, daily application is necessary until the wart is completely removed. Depending on the severity of the wart and the overall health of the person, salicylic acid treatment can take anywhere from 1 week to 2 months to achieve complete wart removal.
