Wart Removal

What are Warts?

Warts are small, rough growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the hands and feet. Warts are contagious and can spread through skin-to-skin contact. As a dermatologist, I see many patients seeking wart removal for cosmetic or comfort reasons. Warts can be painful, especially if they occur on pressure points.

Types of Warts

There are several types of warts, including common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, and genital warts. Common warts are the most prevalent and usually occur on the hands. Plantar warts occur on the feet and can be painful. Flat warts are smaller and smoother, often appearing on the face or arms. Genital warts require specialized treatment and are usually treated by a dermatologist or primary care physician.

Causes of Warts

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through cuts or scratches. HPV is highly contagious and can spread through skin-to-skin contact. Warts can also be spread through sharing personal items, such as towels or razors. Weakened immune systems can increase the risk of developing warts. As a dermatologist, I educate patients on preventing the spread of HPV.

Symptoms of Warts

Warts can appear as small, rough growths or bumps on the skin. They may be flesh-colored, white, or tan. Warts can be painful, especially if they occur on pressure points. Plantar warts can cause discomfort while walking. In some cases, warts may bleed or become infected.

Methods of Wart Removal

There are several methods for removing warts, including cryotherapy, cantharidin, salicylic acid, and surgical excision. Cryotherapy involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen. Cantharidin is a blistering agent that stimulates the immune system to fight the virus. Salicylic acid is a topical treatment that dissolves the keratin protein that makes up the wart. Surgical excision involves cutting out the wart.

Cryotherapy for Wart Removal

Cryotherapy is a common method for removing warts. It involves freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off within a few days. Cryotherapy can be repeated if necessary. This method is usually performed in-office and takes only a few minutes. I use cryotherapy for most wart removals.

Cantharidin for Wart Removal

Cantharidin is a blistering agent that stimulates the immune system to fight the virus. It is applied topically to the wart and causes a blister to form under the wart. The blister lifts the wart off the skin, allowing it to be removed. Cantharidin is usually used for smaller warts.

Salicylic Acid for Wart Removal

Salicylic acid is a topical treatment that dissolves the keratin protein that makes up the wart. It is usually applied daily and can take several weeks to be effective. Salicylic acid is available over-the-counter or by prescription. I recommend salicylic acid for smaller warts or for patients who prefer a non-invasive treatment.

Surgical Excision for Wart Removal

Surgical excision involves cutting out the wart. This method is usually reserved for larger or thicker warts. The area is numbed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Stitches may be required to close the wound. Surgical excision is usually performed in-office.

Aftercare for Wart Removal

After wart removal, patients should keep the area clean and dry. Antibiotic ointment may be applied to prevent infection. Scarring is usually minimal but can be treated with topical creams or silicone gel sheets. Patients should avoid picking or scratching the area, allowing it to heal naturally. I provide personalized aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.