Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). While they are generally harmless, they can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and contagious, making professional treatment a preferred option for many individuals.
At Metropolis Dermatology in Costa Mesa, CA, we provide personalized wart removal treatments designed to eliminate warts effectively and reduce the risk of recurrence.
What Are Warts?
Warts develop when HPV infects the top layer of skin, causing rapid cell growth and forming rough, raised bumps. They vary in size, shape, and location, with different types appearing on various parts of the body.
Common Types
- Common Warts: Found on the hands, fingers, knees, and elbows, typically with a rough, dome-shaped appearance.
- Plantar Warts: Develop on the soles of the feet, often causing pain when walking due to pressure.
- Flat Warts: Smaller and smoother, commonly found on the face, legs, or back of the hands, often appearing in clusters.
- Common Warts: Found on the hands, fingers, knees, and elbows, typically with a rough, dome-shaped appearance.
- Plantar Warts: Develop on the soles of the feet, often causing pain when walking due to pressure.
- Flat Warts: Smaller and smoother, commonly found on the face, legs, or back of the hands, often appearing in clusters.
- Filiform Warts: Long, thin projections that typically grow around the mouth, nose, or eyes.
What Are the Causes
HPV enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions, leading to infection and wart formation. While anyone can develop warts, they are more common in:
- Children and teens, as their immune systems are still developing.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with autoimmune conditions.
- People who frequently bite their nails or pick at their skin, creating entry points for HPV.
Symptoms
Warts can appear in different forms, depending on their type and location:
- Rough, raised bumps: Some warts have a dome-like or cauliflower texture.
- Flat, smooth patches: More common on the face and legs, appearing in clusters.
- Painful plantar warts: Warts on the soles may cause discomfort while walking.
- Tiny black dots inside warts: These are clotted blood vessels, sometimes mistaken for wart seeds.
Treatment Options for Warts
- Topical Medications: Prescription-strength salicylic acid and other topical treatments gradually break down the wart.
- Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment): Liquid nitrogen freezes the wart, destroying infected skin cells.
- Laser Therapy: For stubborn or recurring warts, laser treatment burns away wart tissue, prompting new skin growth.
FAQs
Are warts contagious?
Yes, warts spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces, such as towels or shared equipment.
Can warts return after removal?
Yes, if the virus remains in the skin, warts can recur. Follow-up treatments may be necessary for complete eradication.
How long do warts take to disappear?
Without treatment, warts can persist for months or even years. With professional treatment, removal typically takes a few weeks.
Are warts harmful?
Most warts are harmless, but they can be painful (plantar warts) or affect self-confidence if they appear on visible areas like the face or hands.
How can I prevent warts?
- Avoid direct contact with warts on yourself or others.
- Do not share personal items, such as towels or razors.
- Wear sandals in public showers and locker rooms to prevent plantar warts.
- Keep skin moisturized and avoid biting nails or picking at the skin.
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Real Patients
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
If you are dealing with persistent or painful warts, professional treatment can help remove them safely and prevent recurrence. At Metropolis Dermatology in Costa Mesa, CA, we offer customized wart removal options to restore clear, healthy skin. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your treatment options!