Warts are a common skin issue that can be both unsightly and uncomfortable. If you’ve ever had a wart, you know how frustrating they can be. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of warts, exploring what they are, why they occur, and the various treatments available at Peninsula Dermatology to help you regain smooth, blemish-free skin.
What Are Warts?
Warts are benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body and come in different types, including:
- Common warts: These typically appear on the hands, fingers, and around the nails. They often have a rough, grainy texture.
- Plantar warts: Found on the soles of the feet, plantar warts can be painful when walking due to pressure on the feet.
- Flat warts: These are small, smooth warts that often appear on the face, arms or legs in larger numbers.
- Genital warts: As the name suggests, these warts appear in the genital and anal areas and are sexually transmitted. They are considered a separate category from common warts.
Why Do Warts Occur?
Warts occur when the HPV virus enters the body through tiny cuts, scratches or damaged skin. Not everyone who comes into contact with HPV will develop warts, as the susceptibility to the virus varies from person to person. Factors such as a weakened immune system or skin-to-skin contact with someone who has warts can increase your risk.
Treatment Options
While some may disappear on their own, others can be persistent and may require treatment, especially if they cause discomfort or are cosmetically bothersome. Dermatologists offer several effective treatment options:
- Salicylic acid. Prescription strength topical wart medication that removes the wart layer by layer.
- Freezing (cryotherapy). Freezing therapy for wart removal utilizes the application of liquid nitrogen to kill the wart. This method of wart elimination is also a way to stimulate your body’s immune system to fight the virus causing the wart.
- Bichloroacetic or trichloroacetic acid. Other acids can be used if salicylic acid or freezing does not work.
- Laser treatment. Utilizing a pulsed-dye laser, the heat will cauterize tiny blood vessels causing the wart to lose its blood supply and die. This method is not widely used, as it can cause scarring.
Prevention and Aftercare
Preventing the spread of warts and recurrence is essential. Here are some tips:
- Avoid touching them, as they are contagious.
- Keep the area around the wart clean and dry.
- Avoid picking or scratching them to prevent spreading.
- Change shoes and socks daily, especially if you have plantar warts.
Warts can be bothersome, but with the help of our skilled dermatologists at Peninsula Dermatology, you can safely and effectively eliminate them. If you have warts that you’d like to address, or if you have questions about any skin condition, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dermatology team. We’re here to help you achieve healthier, clearer skin.