Warts

Understanding Warts: Causes, Treatments, and Next Steps

What is a Wart?

A wart is a small, rough, and often raised skin growth caused by a viral infection. Warts can appear on any part of the body but are most common on the hands, feet, and face. While generally harmless, warts can be bothersome, contagious, and sometimes painful, especially if they develop on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet.

What Causes Warts?

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the top layer of skin. The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions and leads to excessive skin cell growth, forming a wart. Warts can spread through:

• Direct contact: Touching a wart on yourself or someone else.
• Contaminated surfaces: Shared towels, gym equipment, and locker room floors.
• Weakened immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems are more prone to warts.

How Are Warts Treated?

Many warts resolve on their own, but persistent or painful warts may require treatment, including:

• Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter or prescription-strength salicylic acid can gradually remove warts.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen causes it to fall off over time.
• Electrosurgery & Curettage: Burning or scraping the wart off under medical supervision.
• Laser Therapy: Targeting the wart with laser energy to destroy the infected tissue.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight off the virus.

Schedule an Appointment with CutisCo Dermatology

If you have a stubborn, painful, or rapidly spreading wart, professional treatment can help remove it effectively and prevent recurrence. Schedule an appointment with a CutisCo Dermatology provider for expert care and personalized wart removal options.