Duct tape has many practical uses and it has been advocated for the use of treating warts or verrucae by occluding the area. The clinical trials show that it does not work too well.

Duct tape, though originally designed for industrial and household repairs, has found a surprising range of medical uses—especially in improvised or emergency settings. One of its most well-documented medical applications is in the treatment of common warts. The “duct tape occlusion therapy” involves covering the wart with duct tape for several days, then removing it to exfoliate the top layer of skin, and repeating the process. Studies have had mixed results, but many anecdotal cases report successful removal, likely due to the combination of occlusion, irritation, and immune stimulation.

Another notable use of duct tape is in first aid and wound management, particularly in situations where medical supplies are limited. It can be used to secure bandages, create splints, or even fashion makeshift butterfly closures to bring wound edges together. When paired with sterile gauze or even clean cloth, duct tape can form a reasonably effective pressure dressing for bleeding control. Its water-resistant backing also provides a barrier against dirt and contaminants, although it’s far from ideal compared to medical-grade adhesives due to potential skin irritation.

Beyond minor injuries, duct tape can play a role in orthopedic or structural support, especially for stabilizing sprained ankles or immobilizing fingers in wilderness medicine scenarios. When combined with padding or soft cloth, it can reinforce a joint or secure a limb to a splint. However, caution is essential: direct application on skin for prolonged periods can cause blistering or allergic reactions, and its strong adhesive can tear fragile skin upon removal. While not a replacement for proper medical care, duct tape remains a clever, multipurpose tool in emergency kits and survival settings.

Most Useful Resources:
Duct Tape (PodiaPaedia)
Duct Tape for Warts? (Foot Health Friday)
Duct tape does not work for Warts or VP’s (Podiatry Arena)
Duct Tape (Foot Health Forum)