What are Warts?

Warts are noncancerous skin growths that result from an HPV infection. They can develop on various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, face, and genitals. Warts are contagious and spread through direct contact with an infected person or surface. Different types of warts include:

• Common warts: Usually appear on fingers and hands, featuring a rough surface.
• Plantar warts: Develop on the soles of the feet, often causing pain while walking.
• Flat warts: Smaller and smoother, often appearing in clusters on the face or legs.
• Filiform warts: Long, thread-like growths typically found on the face or neck.
• Periungual warts: Grow around nails and may disrupt nail growth.

How Skincare Treatments Can Effectively Remove Warts

Several skincare treatments target wart removal by addressing the root cause and promoting skin healing. Dermatology professionals customize treatments based on the type, size, and location of the wart, as well as patient preferences. Commonly used methods include:

Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister and eventually fall off. Cryotherapy is effective for most types of warts and often requires multiple sessions.

Electrosurgery: Using an electric current, this method burns the wart tissue, effectively removing it. Electrosurgery is often combined with other techniques for optimal results.

Excision: In this procedure, the wart is surgically removed using a scalpel. Excision is ideal for larger warts or those resistant to other treatments.

Cantharidin: A blistering agent is applied to the wart, causing a blister to form underneath it. The blister lifts the wart from the skin, allowing it to be easily removed.

Topical medications: Prescription-strength creams or gels containing salicylic acid, imiquimod, or other compounds help dissolve the wart over time.

Oral medications: In some cases, oral treatments that boost the immune system may be prescribed to combat the underlying virus.