Warts are a common skin condition that can affect people of all ages. Though usually harmless, they can be uncomfortable, unsightly, or even painful depending on their type and location. Understanding what causes warts, how to treat them, and when to seek medical advice is important for anyone dealing with these stubborn skin growths.
What Are Warts?
Warts are small, non-cancerous growths that appear on the skin when the human papillomavirus (HPV) infects the top layer of skin. They can develop anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and face. Warts vary in appearance depending on their type and can be smooth or rough, flat or raised, and may have black dots in the centre, which are small clotted blood vessels.
Although warts are usually benign, they can cause distress due to their appearance or discomfort—particularly when located on pressure points like the soles of the feet.
Causes of Warts
The culprit behind warts is HPV, a virus that thrives in warm, moist environments. There are over 100 strains of HPV, and while most warts are caused by a handful of these types, the virus is highly contagious. It can be transmitted through direct skin contact or indirectly via contaminated surfaces, such as communal showers, swimming pools, or shared footwear.
Not everyone who comes into contact with the virus will develop warts. People with weakened immune systems or those with cuts or abrasions on their skin are more susceptible. Children and teenagers are also more likely to develop warts, possibly because their immune systems are still developing.
Types of Warts
Warts come in several forms, including:
- Common warts – Usually found on the hands, fingers, and knees, these are rough and raised with a dome-like shape.
- Plantar warts – Located on the soles of the feet, they tend to grow inward due to pressure and can be painful.
- Flat warts – Smoother and smaller, often occurring in large numbers on the face, thighs, or arms.
- Filiform warts – Long and slender, commonly appearing around the eyes, mouth, or nose.
- Periungual warts – Found under or around fingernails and toenails, often difficult to treat.
Treatment Options
Warts often go away on their own, particularly in children, as the body’s immune system gradually fights off the virus. However, this can take months or even years. Many people opt for treatment to speed up the process, reduce discomfort, or for cosmetic reasons.
Over-the-Counter Remedies
Pharmacies offer a range of wart treatments, including:
- Salicylic acid preparations – These help dissolve the wart over time and are applied daily.
- Freezing sprays – These simulate cryotherapy by freezing the wart and causing it to fall off.
- Plasters and gels – These may contain ingredients that peel the wart layer by layer.
Consistency is key when using these products, as they often require several weeks of application.
Professional Treatments
If home treatments are unsuccessful, a GP or dermatologist may offer alternatives such as:
- Cryotherapy – Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the wart, typically requiring several sessions.
- Laser therapy – Laser treatment can destroy wart tissue but may be costly and uncomfortable.
- Minor surgery – Involves cutting out the wart under local anaesthetic. This may leave a scar.
- Cantharidin – A blistering agent applied in-clinic that causes the wart to lift off the skin.
For those seeking quicker or more discreet solutions, private clinics offer specialised services like wart removal in London, which may provide access to more advanced technologies and shorter wait times.
When to See a Doctor
In many cases, warts are a minor inconvenience that resolve on their own or with over-the-counter treatment. However, medical advice should be sought if:
- The wart is painful, bleeds, or changes in appearance.
- You’re unsure whether a skin lesion is a wart.
- Warts spread rapidly or appear in clusters.
- You have a weakened immune system.
- Home treatments have failed after several months.
- The wart is causing emotional distress or embarrassment.
Seeing a GP can rule out other skin conditions and ensure the correct diagnosis and treatment plan.
Preventing the Spread of Warts
Since warts are contagious, there are steps you can take to prevent spreading them:
- Avoid sharing towels, socks, shoes, or razors.
- Keep warts covered with a plaster or bandage.
- Do not pick or scratch warts.
- Wear flip-flops in communal showers or swimming areas.
- Wash hands thoroughly after touching a wart.
Practising good hygiene and being cautious in public spaces are the best defences against HPV transmission.
Final Thoughts
While warts are rarely serious, they can be a source of discomfort or embarrassment. Fortunately, many effective treatments are available, ranging from simple home remedies to professional procedures. If you’re unsure how to handle a persistent wart or need peace of mind, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Early treatment can reduce the risk of spreading and help you feel more confident in your skin.
