The Use of Salicylic Acid in the Treatment of Warts

Throughout their lives, many people will experience the presence of Plantar Warts (Verrucae) on their bodies. Many of these warts will disappear on their own without needing treatment. However, some people affected by these warts seek treatment because they interfere with their daily lives and cause psychological discomfort.

There are various methods for treating plantar warts. These include topical treatments, surgical curettage, and complementary and alternative therapies. The most common treatment methods among these are liquid nitrogen, cryotherapy, and the topical application of salicylic acid.

Comparison of Treatment Methods

When evaluating two of the most common methods for treating plantar warts, no method was found to be more effective than treatment with 50% concentration salicylic acid preparations. No study has been identified showing that salicylic acid is effective for treating warts at a lower concentration.

In some countries, salicylic acid preparations may have a lower concentration. Sometimes it can drop to levels of 25%-27%.

How is Treatment with Salicylic Acid Applied?

For the treatment of warts, the medication containing salicylic acid prescribed by a doctor is applied by the user directly onto the wart. The effectiveness of the treatment becomes apparent within an average of 8 weeks.

The most significant challenge in these applications is creating a solution of salicylic acid in a suitable solvent. Salicylic Acid is sparingly soluble in water but highly soluble in oil. For this, solubility can be achieved with Triethanolamine and a suitable non-ionic surfactant.

Topical Gel Formulation for Wart Treatment:

Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent commonly used in the treatment of warts. Keratolytic agents help to soften and shed the top layer of the skin. This leads to the destruction of the wart tissue and its eventual disappearance over time. A concentration of 10-40% can be used. The prepared mixture should be applied to the wart 2-3 times a day. It is important to wash the area with soap and water after application.