Warts are skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes skin cells to grow faster than normal. They are raised, rough, and skin-colored and can grow in clusters. Warts that develop on the face may have a flat appearance. Warts on the soles of the feet (also called plantar warts) may cause pain when you stand, walk, or run.
If you have warts, you may have contracted them from a public shower, pool, or locker room. If your child has warts, they may have contracted them through direct skin contact from other kids. In children, warts usually go away with time. In adults, however, warts may not disappear.
If warts are bothering you or your child, the good news is that they can be removed using effective and easy treatment methods. It is recommended that warts be treated as soon as they appear, because of their contagious nature.
Here are the top 3 dermatologist recommended ways to get rid of warts.
#1 Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid treatment can effectively remove warts. Common over-the-counter treatments for wart removal contain this chemical, but chemical peels with a strength of up to 50 percent, which only a dermatologist should administer, are much more effective. Salicylic acid chemical peels work by dissolving the warts, which are actually found in the upper layer of the skin or the epidermis. As old skin peels away, new skin is revealed. Warts gradually dissolve with every dead-skin shedding and eventually completely go away.
#3 Cantharidin
Another topical treatment for warts is cantharidin. Cantharidin is a vesicant that causes blisters to form on the skin’s growth. This medication is administered in the clinic by a dermatologist. The doctor applies the medication to the warts, and it works by cutting off their blood supply. Warts will eventually form a blister and die, and the dermatologist will remove them during your next visit. The good thing about cantharidin is that it does not go beyond the epidermal cells. The basal layer remains intact, so the treatment leaves no scarring.
#2 Cryotherapy
A lot of warts are usually treated with cryotherapy or freezing. The treatment uses liquid nitrogen, which is sprayed on the affected area. The extremely low “freezing” temperature will burn the skin and cause blisters to form. Cryotherapy is so effective that it can take just three sessions to get rid of warts.
For warts that are stubborn or those that cause pain such as plantar warts, the dermatologist may recommend more invasive treatment to achieve relief sooner. In a curettage, the doctor can scrape off or cut the warts out using a sharp tool.
Dermatologist Near Me in Miami, FL
At Children’s Skin Center, Dr. Ana Duarte offers a range of treatments for adult and pediatric patients with warts. Our health care team will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the type of wart, the severity of the problem, and patient preference. We are a kid-friendly clinic, and our friendly team is adept at making children feel comfortable and relaxed.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Duarte, call us now at (305) 669-6555 or use our appointment request form. We have several locations in Miami for your ease and convenience.
