Warts

Warts are small, rough skin growths caused by infection with HPV. The virus stimulates excess skin cell production, resulting in firm bumps on the surface of the skin. Warts can vary in shape, size, and texture depending on their type and location.

Common types include:

• Common warts — rough, raised bumps often found on hands and fingers.
• Plantar warts — flat, thick growths on the soles of the feet that can be painful when walking.
• Flat warts — smooth, flat-topped warts that may appear in clusters.
• Periungual warts — warts around the fingernails or toenails.

Warts are contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or via contaminated surfaces.

Many skin lesions can resemble warts, so accurate diagnosis by a dermatologist ensures the best possible treatment plan. Over-the-counter remedies may help with minor cases, but persistent, painful, or spreading warts often require professional care for effective and long-lasting results.

You should consider professional evaluation if:

• The wart is painful, growing, or spreading
• Over-the-counter treatments haven’t worked
• The growth is in a sensitive location (face, genitals, near nails)
• You’re unsure whether the lesion is a wart
• You have a weakened immune system or diabetes

Wart treatment depends on the type, size, location, and persistence of the growth. At Mittal Dermatology, we tailor treatments to your situation, using evidence-based methods that offer better outcomes and fewer recurrences than at-home care alone.

In-Office Professional Treatments

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

One of the most common and effective treatments for warts involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the lesion — causing it to blister and gradually fall off. Multiple sessions may be needed.

Electrosurgery & Curettage

These techniques involve using an electric current to remove wart tissue and scraping it away, often used together for stubborn lesions.

Excision

Surgical removal of the wart may be recommended for large or persistent growths.

Laser Therapy

Laser treatment targets wart tissue with focused light and can be effective for warts that don’t respond to other methods.

Immunotherapy & Injectable Treatments

For recurrent warts, certain injections may help stimulate the immune system to fight the HPV virus.

Topical & Adjunct Options

Prescription-Strength Topicals

Higher-strength salicylic acid or other medicated peels may be used under dermatologic supervision to gradually remove warts.

Cantharidin Application

This in-office option causes a blister beneath the wart, lifting it off the skin for easy removal.

While professional treatment is often recommended for persistent or bothersome warts, some mild cases may respond to consistent care at home. Dermatologists often recommend:

• Regular application of salicylic acid products to gently exfoliate wart tissue.
• Not picking or shaving warts, which can spread the virus
• Keeping skin clean and dry
• Avoiding barefoot walking in communal areas like pools or locker rooms

Home treatments usually take weeks to months and should be discussed with your dermatologist for best results.

Are warts contagious?

Yes — warts can spread through skin-to-skin contact or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces like towels or floors.

Can warts go away on their own?

Some warts may eventually resolve without treatment, especially in children. However, stubborn or painful warts often benefit from professional care.

Will a wart come back after removal?

Warts may recur, especially if the underlying HPV infection persists. Follow-up with your dermatologist can help reduce recurrence.