A wart is a small, skin growth often resembling a cauliflower or blister. It typically occurs on the hands or feet, but often in other locations as well. Warts are caused by a viral infection, specifically by one of the many types of human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus causes the top layer of skin to grow rapidly, forming a wart. There are many varieties of warts and most are considered to be harmless. Warts are contagious and usually enter the body in an area of broken skin or skin-to-skin contact. They typically disappear after a few months but can last for years and, since they are caused by a virus in the body, can recur.
Most warts don’t need treatment. But if painful or spreading there are treatment options:
• Using a drugstore topical treatment. These are available without a prescription. Usually less effective than medical treatments and take time.
• The duct tape method (Google it). Prepare to be diligent and very patient.
• Have Chelsea Skin & Laser prescribe a stronger, prescription grade topical or inject the wart with a solution.
• Cryotherapy (freezing the wart).
• Removing the wart surgically.
Please keep in mind that wart treatments do not always work and warts may come back or spread to other parts of the body. Most treatments destroy the wart but do not kill the virus that causes the wart. Dr. Eidelman, Dr. Mack and Dominic Moccia have extensive knowledge and expertise in wart treatment. Let Chelsea’s Top Dermatology practice, Chelsea Skin & Laser help free you of your warts.