Can applying white vinegar help treat flat warts?
Disease description:
My younger brother is 23 years old. Recently, while showering, he noticed many red rashes on his feet, accompanied by itching. He was diagnosed with flat warts. We would like to know whether applying white vinegar can help treat flat warts.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Applying white vinegar to flat warts cannot completely cure them. Although white vinegar has certain antibacterial and keratolytic effects, it does not directly eliminate flat warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Moreover, the acidity of white vinegar may irritate the skin and even worsen the condition, especially if its concentration is not properly controlled, potentially damaging healthy skin tissue.
For the treatment of flat warts, clinical approaches typically include physical therapies (such as laser treatment, cryotherapy) and medication-based treatments (such as retinoic acid preparations, interferon). These methods, when performed under the guidance of a qualified physician, can more effectively remove warts and inhibit viral replication.
Therefore, if you have flat warts, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention for diagnosis and professional treatment. Avoid self-treatment with folk remedies such as white vinegar, which may delay proper care or cause unnecessary skin damage.
