What Are Skin Warts?
Skin warts are small, rough growths that appear on the skin. They are caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). Because skin warts are common, many people will get them at some point. Usually, warts are harmless, but they can be bothersome or embarrassing. In some cases, they may spread to other parts of the body or to other people. For this reason, understanding skin warts and how to treat warts is important.
Common Causes of Skin Warts
Most skin warts develop after the skin comes in contact with HPV. However, not everyone who touches the virus will get warts. Several factors can increase your risk:
Direct contact with someone who has warts
Touching surfaces that have the virus, like public showers or pools
Having cuts or breaks in the skin
Weakened immune system
Children and teens are more likely to get warts
Because the virus enters through tiny breaks in the skin, keeping your skin healthy can help prevent warts.
Symptoms and Types of Skin Warts
Skin warts can look different depending on their type. Still, most warts share some common signs. For example, they often feel rough and may have tiny black dots. These dots are small blood vessels. Here are the main types of skin warts:
Common warts: Usually found on fingers, hands, or knees. They are rough and raised.
Plantar warts: Grow on the soles of the feet. They may feel painful when you walk.
Flat warts: Smaller and smoother. Often appear on the face or legs.
Filiform warts: Look like tiny threads. Usually found on the face or neck.
Periungual warts: Grow around fingernails or toenails. They can affect nail growth.
Although most warts are painless, some may hurt or itch, especially on the feet.
How Are Skin Warts Diagnosed?
Doctors can usually diagnose skin warts by looking at them. Sometimes, they may use a magnifying glass to see details. In rare cases, a doctor may remove a small piece of the wart for testing. This helps rule out other skin problems. Because warts can look like other growths, it is important to get the right diagnosis. If you are unsure, always ask a dermatologist.
Treatment Options for Skin Warts
Many skin warts go away on their own, but this can take months or even years. If you want faster results or if warts are painful, there are several wart removal options:
Over-the-counter treatments: These include creams or liquids with salicylic acid. They help peel away the wart.
Cryotherapy: A doctor freezes the wart with liquid nitrogen. This is a common method.
Prescription treatments: Stronger medicines may be used if warts do not go away.
Minor surgery: Sometimes, a doctor may cut or burn off the wart.
Laser treatment: This uses light to destroy the wart tissue.
Because some treatments can cause scarring, always follow your doctor’s advice. Never try to cut off a wart at home.
Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance
Although it is not always possible to avoid skin warts, you can lower your risk. Here are some tips for preventing skin warts:
Keep your skin clean and dry
Do not share towels, razors, or shoes
Wear flip-flops in public showers or pools
Avoid picking at warts to prevent spreading
Cover warts with a bandage if needed
Wash your hands after touching a wart
Because warts spread easily, these steps can help protect you and others.
When to See a Dermatologist
Most warts are not dangerous. However, you should see a dermatologist if:
The wart is painful, changes color, or bleeds
Warts spread quickly or keep coming back
You have diabetes or a weak immune system
The wart does not improve with home treatment
You are unsure if the growth is a wart
Because early treatment can prevent problems, do not wait if you have concerns.
For more information, you can visit trusted sources like the CDC or the American Academy of Dermatology.
Book your appointment at Skin Rituals for personalized advice on skin warts.
