Plantars Wart: Popular Home Treatments

A plantars wart is a rough growth that develops on the bottom of the foot as a result of the human papilloma virus (HPV). Because of their appearance and texture, these warts can often be mistaken for corns or calluses. They are more common among children than adults and can be spread through scratching, touching, or contact with skin shed from another wart. Although a plantars wart is contagious, it is fairly harmless and can be treated from home with one of a few simple treatments.

Over the Counter Medication

Cryosurgery, laser treatment, and surgical removal are some effective high-cost treatments for a plantars wart. However, there are some low-cost over the counter medications that are just as effective. The most common over the counter medication is the salicylic acid patch. When applied daily for up to three weeks, these patches can effectively remove the warts.

When using this method, it is important to maintain good foot hygiene. Be sure to wash the affected area daily so as to keep it free from any elements that may encourage the growth of your current plantars wart or promote the development of new warts. You can be sure the patch is working when the salicylic acid causes a slight burning sensation in the healthy skin but not the wart.

Duct Tape Treatment

The duct tape treatment may seem like an unorthodox method for removing a plantars wart but it’s actually a quite effective one. It’s especially useful for children who are afraid of other methods. The duct tape treatment requires the wart to be covered with duct tape for up to six days. The duct tape can be removed every morning during the six day period in order to eliminate dead skin cells and clean the infected area, but be sure to put on a fresh piece afterward. After six days, the tape should be removed and the infected area soaked in water. If the wart persists, then repeat the six-day process for up to three weeks until the wart is completely gone.

Removing a plantars wart does not have to be expensive or painful. Even though these warts do not pose a serious health threat, they can be a nuisance. In order to prevent future outbreaks, be sure to protect your feet with flip-flops or shower shoes when using public facilities such as pools or health clubs. Also, if you have children, be sure to check their feet often – especially during the summer months. If you ever have to deal with a plantars wart again, salicylic acid or duct tape will provide a low-cost, effective solution for you.