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Using Tape to Remove Warts

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Using Tape to Remove Warts

Topic Overview

Tape occlusion is an inexpensive method of wart removal that involves covering the wart with tape. It is often called the "duct tape" method.

  • Cut a piece of duct tape as close to the size of the wart as possible.
  • Leave the tape in place for 6 days. If the tape falls off, put on a new piece.
  • After 6 days, remove the tape and soak the area in water. Then gently rub the wart surface down with an emery board or pumice stone. Leave the tape off overnight.
  • Repeat this process until the wart is gone, but not longer than 2 months.

Covering a wart with tape may help it go away. However, there isn't proof that using duct tape helps to clear up warts more quickly than leaving them alone.

Using duct tape for warts is probably safe. But if your skin is very thin or fragile, be very careful when removing the tape.

If you're not sure whether a skin growth is a wart, it's best to see a health professional.

Credits

Current as of: August 2, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine

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