How Does Salicylic Acid Remove Warts?
Salicyclic Acid Products Warts are caused by one of more than 100 types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear on parts of the body such as the fingers and hands, knees and feet. While genital warts and warts on the face must receive care and treatment from a physician, over-the-counter products that contain salicyclic acid can be applied to common warts on other parts of the body. These are sold in the form of a topical medication or patch and can be found at most drugstores. The Mayo Clinic recommends choosing a product with at least 17% salicyclic acid, such as Compound W and Occlusal-HP. Pretreatment and Application For optimal results using a salicyclic acid product, bathe or shower first, or soak the wart-infected area in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes before applying the medication or the patch (acid sinks into the wart more easily when the skin is damp). Over time, the salicyclic acid destroys the wart tissue, one layer of skin at a time. These products do not act qu
