What you need to know about warts — and how to treat them at home

Experts share tips on different types of warts and effective at-home remedies.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:42am

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image showing the intricate internal structure of a wart, with a network of glowing veins and capillaries visible against a dark background, conceptually illustrating the viral cause of warts.An X-ray view exposes the intricate vascular network beneath the surface of a common wart, highlighting the viral nature of this skin condition.NYC Today

Many people develop warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Experts discuss the various types of warts, how they spread, and effective at-home treatments like salicylic acid, freezing sprays, and duct tape. They caution against trying to treat large numbers of warts or warts in sensitive areas at home, as this can lead to skin irritation, burns, and scarring. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended, especially for stubborn or concerning warts.

Why it matters

Warts are a common skin condition that can be unsightly and sometimes painful, but most are harmless and resolve on their own over time. Knowing how to effectively treat warts at home can help people address them quickly and avoid potential complications. However, improper at-home treatment can also lead to issues, so understanding the limitations and risks is important.

The details

Warts are caused by different strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear as rough, raised bumps, smooth flat growths, or thick plantar warts on the feet. They are spread through direct skin contact or contact with contaminated surfaces. While most warts go away on their own within a couple years, over-the-counter treatments like salicylic acid, freezing sprays, and duct tape can help remove them faster. Dermatologists caution against aggressive at-home treatment, especially for large numbers of warts or those in sensitive areas, as this raises the risk of skin irritation, burns, and scarring. Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for stubborn warts, those that are painful or show signs of infection, or any growths that may be skin cancer instead of a wart.

  • Warts often resolve on their own within a couple years.

The players

Adam Friedman

A professor and chair of dermatology at George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Shari Lipner

A professor of clinical dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Marisa Garshick

A dermatologist in New York.

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What they’re saying

“They're different from the types that cause warts on hands and feet, so you can't get genital warts from someone's hand wart.”

— Adam Friedman, Professor and chair of dermatology

“By minimizing exposure and maintaining the skin barrier.”

— Marisa Garshick, Dermatologist

“People of color have a higher chance of pigment changes and scarring.”

— Shari Lipner, Professor of clinical dermatology

What’s next

If at-home treatments don't work, consult a board-certified dermatologist who may recommend in-office treatments such as medical-grade cryotherapy, electrosurgery and curettage, or certain injections or prescription medications.

The takeaway

Warts are a common skin condition that can often be treated effectively at home, but improper treatment can lead to complications. Knowing the different types of warts, how to properly use at-home remedies, and when to see a dermatologist can help people address warts safely and efficiently.