Using Tape to Remove Warts

Overview

Tape occlusion is a low-cost method of wart removal that involves covering the wart with a small piece of duct tape. It is often called the "duct tape" method.

1. Cut a piece of duct tape as close to the size of the wart as possible.

   You can place a bandage over the tape to help it stay on.

2. Leave the tape in place for 6 days.

   If the tape falls off, put on a new piece.

3. After 6 days, remove the tape and soak the area in water.

   Then gently rub down the wart surface with an emery board or pumice stone. Leave the tape off overnight.

4. Repeat this process until the wart is gone, but not longer than 2 months.

Covering a wart with tape may help it go away. But 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.