Warts: Types, Causes & Safe Removal Options

Warts are small, rough growths on the skin caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). While they're generally harmless, warts can be unsightly, embarrassing, and sometimes painful. They're also contagious, making early treatment important to prevent spreading.

What Causes Warts?

Warts are caused by various strains of HPV — there are over 100 types, and different strains cause warts in different locations. The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts, scratches, or areas of broken skin. Key facts:

• HPV is contagious — warts spread through direct skin contact or contaminated surfaces
• The virus thrives in warm, moist environments (swimming pools, shared showers, gym floors)
• People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible
• Warts can take 2–6 months to appear after exposure to the virus
• Picking, biting, or shaving over warts can spread them to new areas

Types of Warts

Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)

Round, raised growths with a rough, cauliflower-like surface. Usually appear on fingers, hands, knees, and elbows. Caused by HPV types 2 and 4. They often have tiny black dots (thrombosed capillaries) visible on the surface.

Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris)

Grow on the soles of the feet and grow inward due to pressure from walking. Can be very painful, feeling like a pebble in the shoe. Caused by HPV types 1 and 4. Often have a flat surface with a surrounding hard callus.

Flat Warts (Verruca Plana)

Small, smooth, slightly raised warts. Appear in large numbers (20–100+) on the face, forehead, and legs. Common in children and young adults. Caused by HPV types 3 and 10. May spread in a linear pattern from scratching or shaving.

Filiform Warts

Long, narrow projections that grow rapidly around the eyes, nose, mouth, and chin. They look like tiny finger-like flaps. While harmless, their location on the face makes them particularly bothersome.

Periungual Warts

Grow under and around fingernails and toenails. Can be painful and affect nail growth. Difficult to treat due to their location.

Genital Warts

Appear in the genital and anal area. Caused by HPV types 6 and 11. Require specific medical treatment and evaluation.

Professional Removal Options

1. Cryotherapy (Freezing)

The most common clinical treatment. Liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the wart at -196°C, causing a blister underneath that lifts the wart away from the skin.

• Sessions: 1–4 treatments, 2–3 weeks apart
• Pain level: Moderate stinging sensation
• Recovery: Blister forms and heals in 1–2 weeks
• Success rate: 70–80% clearance

2. Electrocautery (Burning)

Uses electric current to burn away the wart tissue. Often combined with curettage (scraping).

• Best for: Common warts and filiform warts
• Performed under: Local anaesthesia
• Recovery: 1–2 weeks; may leave a small scar
• Success rate: 80–90% in single session

3. Laser Treatment

Pulsed dye laser or CO2 laser destroys wart tissue. Used for resistant warts or those in difficult locations.

• Best for: Recurrent or multiple warts
• Recovery: 1–3 weeks depending on laser type
• Advantage: Precise; minimal damage to surrounding tissue

4. Chemical Treatments

• Salicylic acid (clinical strength): Applied by dermatologist in higher concentrations than OTC products
• Cantharidin (Beetle Juice): A blistering agent applied in-office that lifts the wart painlessly
• Trichloroacetic acid (TCA): Chemical cautery for flat and small warts

5. Immunotherapy

For stubborn, recurrent warts. Intralesional injection of antigens (like candida or MMR vaccine antigen) stimulates the immune system to recognise and fight HPV.

Prevention Tips

• Don't pick, scratch, or bite warts — this spreads the virus
• Wear slippers in public showers and pool areas
• Don't share towels, razors, or nail clippers
• Keep hands dry — HPV thrives in moisture
• Cover cuts and scrapes to prevent entry of the virus
• Boost your immune system with a healthy diet and adequate sleep