Ever noticed a stubborn, rough bump on your skin that just won’t go away? Chances are, you’ve met a wart. These small, rough growths can be annoying, sometimes painful, and often difficult to get rid of. If you have a wart, you’re not alone. The good news is that there are plenty of treatment options, and in many cases, they go away on their own.
Today the Rodgers Dermatology team will cover how warts form, the best ways to treat them, and tips to prevent them from coming back..
What Causes Warts?
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the top layer of skin through tiny cuts or breaks. There are over 100 strains of HPV, and different types cause different kinds of warts. While warts aren’t dangerous, they can be stubborn and spread easily through direct contact or shared items like towels or razors.
Types of Warts
Not all warts look or behave the same. Here are the most common types:
- Common warts – Rough, raised bumps that usually appear on the hands or fingers.
- Plantar warts – Found on the bottoms of the feet, these warts grow inward and can be painful when walking.
- Flat warts – Small, smooth, and often found in clusters on the face, neck, or hands.
- Filiform warts – Long, thin warts that typically show up around the mouth, nose, or chin.
- Periungual warts – Develop around or under the nails and can be painful.
Identifying the type of wart you have can help you choose the best treatment method.
How to Get Rid of Warts
There are many ways to treat warts, from over-the-counter treatments to professional removal. The best option depends on the wart’s size, location, and how stubborn it is.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
If you have a small wart, an at-home treatment may be enough to get rid of it. Here are some common options:
- Salicylic acid – Available in gels, pads, and liquids, this treatment works by gradually peeling away the wart. It may take several weeks of daily use to see results.
- Cryotherapy kits – These use a freezing agent (not as strong as what a doctor would use) to kill the wart.
- Duct tape method – Covering the wart with duct tape for several days, then soaking and gently filing it down, may help remove it over time.
- Immunotherapy creams – Some OTC creams encourage the immune system to fight the wart virus.
Patience is key when using these treatments. If you don’t see improvement after 12 weeks, it may be time to try another option.
When to See a Dermatologist for Wart Treatment
Some warts are stubborn and need professional treatment. You should see a dermatologist if:
- The wart is painful or affects daily activities.
- It doesn’t respond to at-home treatments.
- You have multiple warts or they’re spreading.
- It’s on your face, genitals, or another sensitive area.
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
- You’re unsure if the growth is actually a wart.
Professional Wart Removal Options
Dermatologists have access to more effective wart removal methods, including:
- Cryotherapy – Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen.
- Electrocautery – Burning off the wart with an electric current.
- Laser therapy – Destroying the blood vessels feeding the wart.
- Chemical peels – Using stronger acids than those in OTC treatments.
- Immunotherapy – Boosting the immune system to fight the virus.
- Surgical removal – Cutting out the wart (usually for large or stubborn cases).
Your dermatologist will recommend the best treatment based on your specific case.
How to Prevent Warts
You can’t always avoid warts, but you can lower your chances of getting them by following these tips:
- Wash your hands regularly and keep your skin clean.
- Wear shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and around pools.
- Avoid sharing towels, razors, and other personal items.
- Keep your immune system strong with a healthy diet, exercise, and sleep.
- Treat cuts and scrapes promptly.
- Don’t pick at warts—this can spread the virus.
Common Myths About Warts
There are plenty of myths about warts, so let’s set the record straight:
- Myth: Warts have roots that need to be removed. What people mistake for roots are actually blood vessels feeding the wart.
- Myth: Warts come from frogs or toads. They’re caused by HPV, not amphibians.
- Myth: All warts are highly contagious. Some types spread more easily than others.
- Myth: Warts always need to be removed. Some go away on their own, especially in children.
- Myth: Once you’ve had a wart, you won’t get another. You can get new warts even after successful treatment.
- Myth: All skin bumps are warts. Many other conditions can look like warts, so if you’re unsure, see a dermatologist.
Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions About Warts
How long does wart treatment take?
It depends on the method. OTC treatments can take weeks or months, while professional treatments may show results in a few sessions.
Can warts spread to other parts of my body?
Yes. Avoid picking at warts to prevent spreading the virus.
Are warts contagious?
Yes, they can spread through direct contact or shared items.
Can swimming pools cause warts?
The virus thrives in warm, damp environments, but pool chlorine helps lower the risk. Walking barefoot in public areas is a bigger concern.
Is it safe to treat warts during pregnancy?
Some treatments may not be safe. Check with your doctor before using any wart removal method.
Do warts always come back after treatment?
Not always, but because the virus can stay in the skin, some people experience recurrences.
Can diet affect wart growth or treatment?
A healthy immune system can help fight the virus, but no specific diet prevents or cures warts.
Need Help with Wart Removal? Visit Rodgers Dermatology
If warts are bothering you and home treatments haven’t worked, it’s time to see a dermatologist. At Rodgers Dermatology in Frisco, TX, we offer expert care and effective wart removal treatments.
Schedule an appointment today and let our team help you get smooth, healthy skin again!
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Experience Exceptional Skin Care – Book an Appointment with Rodgers Dermatology Now!
Achieve healthier, smoother skin with expert care from Rodgers Dermatology in Frisco, TX! Whether you’re looking for advanced treatments like laser hair removal, acne solutions, or skin rejuvenation, our experienced dermatologists are here to help.
We offer personalized treatment plans for your unique skin needs, so you can get the results you’ve been wishing for. Don’t wait to feel confident in your skin—schedule your appointment today and experience the difference expert dermatology can make!
Call 972-704-2400 to schedule your consultation.