Removing A Plantar Wart: Duct Tape Vs. Medicine

If you have a plantar wart, duct tape may very well be a more effective treatment than over the counter wart removal medications, but is it better than a dermatologist?

What Are Plantar Warts?

Plantar warts are lesions on the skin that have a cauliflower like appearance.  They occur most often on the feet and hands and may go away on their own within a couple of years, but can cause discomfort and be unsightly.

Treatment Options

Treatment of plantar warts has typically been through the use of over the counter topical medication that may or may not be effective and can be expensive. Painful treatments with the dermatologist include cryogenic removal (freezing), acid treatment, or laser therapy.

Duct Tape Vs Dermatologist

In recent scientific studies, duct tape had a success rate of more than 80% in curing warts.  Freezing warts had only a little better than 60% success rate.  Considering the difference in cost between duct tape and a trip to the dermatologist, it may be worth trying duct tape on your next plantar wart.  Duct tape is inexpensive, almost always available, and now has yet another use.  To use, apply a small piece of tape to the wart.  The wart should disappear within a couple of weeks to a month.  You will have to replace the tape regularly.