Wart removal

Introduction

Warts can be stubborn, unsightly, and sometimes painful. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these skin growths may appear on the hands, feet, face, or other parts of the body. While often harmless, warts can spread or persist for years without treatment. Wart removal is a safe, effective way to restore clear, smooth skin. Here’s your full breakdown of the process, from candidacy to results.

Summary

Wart removal is a dermatological procedure designed to eliminate growths caused by HPV. Treatment options vary based on the wart type, location, size, and persistence. Whether for medical reasons or cosmetic preference, professional removal offers fast, reliable results with minimal downtime.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for wart removal if:

  • You have one or more warts that are painful, spreading, or causing discomfort.

  • Over-the-counter treatments have failed.

  • The wart is in a sensitive or highly visible area (e.g., face, genitals, hands, feet).

  • You have a weakened immune system and are prone to recurring warts.

  • You are bothered by the wart’s appearance or texture.

Note: Children, pregnant women, and people with diabetes or circulatory issues should consult a specialist before treatment.

What the Procedure Entails

A healthcare provider may recommend one of several wart removal methods:

  1. Cryotherapy (Freezing):
    Liquid nitrogen is applied to the wart, causing it to blister and fall off within 7–14 days. Multiple sessions may be needed.

  2. Electrosurgery and Curettage:
    The wart is burned with an electric current, then scraped off with a surgical tool. Often used for larger or stubborn warts.

  3. Laser Treatment:
    A precise laser targets and destroys wart tissue. Ideal for hard-to-treat or recurring warts.

  4. Chemical Peels (Salicylic Acid, Cantharidin):
    These topical solutions are applied to peel away layers of the wart. Multiple applications may be required over several weeks.

  5. Surgical Excision:
    The wart is physically cut out under local anesthesia. Typically used when other treatments have failed.

Procedure Time: 10–30 minutes depending on size and method.

Recovery

  • Downtime: Minimal for most procedures. You can usually resume normal activities the same day.

  • Post-Care: Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid picking at scabs. Use antibiotic ointment if recommended.

  • Healing Time: 1–2 weeks for cryotherapy and electrosurgery; a few days to a few weeks for chemical treatments; longer for laser or excision.

Results

  • Warts typically fall off or shrink significantly after treatment.

  • Clearer, smoother skin appears as healing progresses.

  • Some warts may require repeat sessions, especially plantar and periungual types.

  • Professional removal significantly lowers the risk of recurrence compared to home treatments.

Possible Complications

While generally safe, wart removal may have minor risks:

  • Pain, redness, or swelling

  • Blistering or scabbing

  • Mild scarring or skin discoloration

  • Infection if aftercare is not followed

  • Wart recurrence (especially with HPV-related warts)

Is wart removal painful?

Discomfort is typically minimal and manageable. Numbing cream or local anesthesia is used for most procedures.

Can I remove a wart at home?

While over-the-counter treatments exist, they may take months and are often less effective than professional removal.

Do warts spread if left untreated?

Yes. Warts can spread to other parts of the body or to other people through direct or indirect contact.

Will the wart come back after removal?

Treated warts often don’t return, but new ones can form, especially if your immune system doesn’t clear the virus completely.

Is wart removal safe for kids?

Yes, but always consult a pediatric dermatologist to determine the best treatment option based on the child’s age and comfort level.