Published Paper Details:

Warts, or verrucae, are benign epidermal proliferations caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and are one of the most common dermatological conditions globally. This review examines the use of topical gels and solutions containing the keratolytic agents salicylic acid (SA) and lactic acid (LA) for the removal of warts, focusing on their mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and safety profile. Keratolytic therapy, particularly with SA, is widely considered the first-line, over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for common and plantar warts due to its low cost, ease of self-application, and favorable safety record. The combination of SA and LA enhances the destructive and desquamative effect on the hyperkeratotic tissue, leading to the gradual elimination of the virus-infected epidermis. Comparative clinical trials suggest that topical SA formulations offer an efficacy comparable to, or in some cases superior to, more invasive treatments like cryotherapy, particularly for common warts. This review synthesizes data from approximately 70 authentic sources to provide a detailed, evidence-based overview of this foundational treatment modality.