Wart Removal
Warts: Causes, Symptoms, & Removal in Draper, UT
Warts can be unsightly, uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing. Caused by a viral infection from the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), warts may clear up on their own if your body’s immune system responds effectively, but they often linger longer than expected. Warts are common among school-aged children, typically occurring on the knees, elbows, and hands, though they can develop anywhere on the body and at any age.
At Draper Dermatology, with over 30 years of experience in the Salt Lake Valley, we are well-equipped to diagnose and treat all types of skin concerns, including warts. Most importantly, we know how to help you get rid of warts for good.
What are Warts?
Warts are benign skin growths caused by HPV. They develop when the virus enters the skin through a crack or cut, often after contact with a contaminated surface or another person. Warts are contagious and can spread easily through skin-to-skin contact or by touching objects like floors, coins, or even a handshake with someone who has the virus.
Warts typically appear as raised, rough-textured bumps on the skin. Their color and size can vary depending on where they are located on the body. There are several types of warts, including common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, and genital warts, each linked to specific HPV strains.
Diagnosing Warts
Whenever you notice a new or changing spot on your skin, especially if it is painful or uncomfortable, it is important to consult a dermatologist. At our dermatology clinic we will visually examine your skin lesion and may use a dermascope to see it on a microscopic level. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, we can discuss the most effective treatment options for your condition.
Wart Treatment Options
Perhaps you’ve tried at-home wart treatments like covering your wart with duct tape or applying apple cider vinegar to try to remove it. These methods sometimes work by irritating the skin and triggering an immune response. More effective over-the-counter treatments include:
● Salicylic acid● Freezing kits
However, if your wart does not respond to these treatments, spreads or grows rapidly, or is located in sensitive areas like your face, feet, or genitals, it is time to reach out to a dermatologist.
Dermatologist Wart Treatments
Warts are common and treatable, but it is important to get professional removal when they are growing, painful, and spreading. When compared with at-home treatments, dermatologists offer much stronger, more effective treatment options including:
Cryotherapy
Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen
Cantharidin
Blistering agent applied by a professional
Electrosurgery and Curettage
Burning and scraping off the wart
Laser Treatment
Targeting the blood supply to destroy the wart
Immunotherapy
Boosting the body’s immune response to fight the wart