How to Remove a Cauliflower Wart

Written by Susan Revermann

27 July, 2017

Common warts, also referred to as cauliflower warts, are a very regular occurrence and are present because of the Human Papilloma Virus in the body. These small, rough patches of skin usually show up on hands, on feet and sometimes on the genitals. It is possible for warts to go away on their own with the help of a strong immune system fighting the virus. But people often seek solutions to rid themselves of these dry, sometimes itchy, growths. There are different at-home options to try, as well as medical intervention for the removal of tougher warts.

Consider using the over-the-counter form of salicylic acid. This product comes in liquid drops, gels, ointments, lotions, and medicated pads that are placed on the skin. Clean skin, remove any dead skin on wart with pumice stone, apply the salicylic acid medication to the wart area only so acid doesn't kill the healthy skin around it, and cover with a bandage. Usually you reapply every 1 to 2 days, but you should read individual product information for specific application and dosage instructions. This method may take up to 12 weeks to fully remove a wart.

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Try a medicated pen filled with silver nitrate as another option. Read product directions thoroughly before use. This method usually takes three to six treatments. These can be purchased at a pharmacy.

Place duct tape over the wart in 1-week increments. After the week is up, remove the old duct tape and reapply new tape. This method has the same effect as the salicylic acid. Remember to keep the tape mainly on the wart so that healthy skin is not damaged as well.

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Apply crushed garlic clove to the wart for 7 days. Secure with a large adhesive bandage.

Eat a healthy, balanced diet and avoid stress to strengthen your immune system so it can fight the infection that causes warts and help to heal the wart that is present. Foods and supplements containing vitamins A, C, and E will really help with this.

Consult a doctor if other methods do not work. Your doctor can use stronger methods than over-the-counter remedies. She may use podofilix, topical podophyllum, or trichloracetic acid (TCA) topically, or she may opt to surgically remove, freeze, burn or use a laser for removal.