Warts: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Removal
Warts are benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on hands, feet (plantar warts), and face. While harmless, warts are contagious and can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces. Many resolve on their own, but treatment speeds clearance and prevents spread.
Common Symptoms of Warts
- Rough, raised, cauliflower-like bumps
- Black dots (clotted blood vessels) inside the wart
- Pain or tenderness on weight-bearing areas (plantar warts)
- Flat warts on face or legs in children
- Genital warts (separate type requiring medical attention)
Warts may bleed easily when injured.
Causes and How Warts Spread
HPV enters through small cuts or breaks in the skin. Different strains cause common, plantar, flat, or genital warts. Risk increases in public showers, pools, or with skin-to-skin contact. Weakened immunity raises susceptibility.
Effective Treatment Options
- Over-the-counter salicylic acid preparations
- Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen)
- In-office curettage, laser, or electrosurgery
- Prescription topical treatments for stubborn warts
- Watchful waiting for small, asymptomatic warts
Multiple sessions may be needed. Avoid home remedies like duct tape if ineffective.
Prevention and Daily Care Tips
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas
- Do not pick or bite warts
- Keep hands and feet dry
- Do not share towels or razors
- Treat promptly to limit spread
When to See a Dermatologist
Seek care for painful, spreading, or genital warts, or if over-the-counter treatments fail. Dermatologists provide faster, safer removal and rule out similar growths.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are warts contagious? Yes—through skin contact or contaminated surfaces.
- How long do warts last? Months to years; treatment shortens duration.
- Can warts turn cancerous? Common skin warts do not, but genital HPV strains can.
- Best treatment for plantar warts? Combination of salicylic acid and cryotherapy often works well.
- Do warts come back? Possible if virus remains; good hygiene helps.
Warts are common and treatable. Professional removal provides quick relief and reduces transmission. For effective wart treatment, request an appointment at Palmetto Skin and Laser Center. Call (803) 329-6030 or book online—expert care for clear, healthy skin is available.