What Is A Wart?
Warts are a common skin issue, most often developing on the hands and fingers (though they can also occur in clusters around the elbows, knees, and elsewhere). Warts may differ in size. Warts may develop when the human papillomavirus (HPV) enters the body through a cut or wound and creates an infection. Though warts are harmless for the most part, they may be annoying and unattractive. There are many store-bought solutions for warts, but for a more effective wart treatment, we recommend working with an experienced dermatologist. At Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics, we offer wart removal services for Orlando, FL men and women of all ages and skin types. If you have a wart you want to be removed, reach out to our skin care practice today.
How Do You Treat Warts?
At Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics, our approach to wart removal is aimed at eliminating existing growths while minimizing the chance of future outbreaks. One of the most common and effective wart treatments is cryotherapy, in which our team uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart away. A blister will develop around the wart, and the dead skin will fall off in a week. Another option is using Cantharidin Plus, a substance that can lead to inflammation of the skin once applied to a wart. The cantharidin is applied to the skin to form a blister around the wart — it is a typical and popular therapy since the technique causes little to no pain. Other options include prescribed topical immunotherapy, oral medications to boost the immune system (if the warts are widespread), and Candida immunotherapy for warts that don't respond to conventional treatments.
What Are the Symptoms of Warts?
The most common symptoms of warts include raised lumps of skin that feel fleshy and rough. They can develop alone or in clusters. Other symptoms of warts include:
- Itching around the affected area
- Skin growths that feature tiny black dots
- Pain in the affected area
- Growths that go away on their own, only to return later
Wart Removal Reviews
Dr. Grayman was very efficient and to the point. She removed, shaved, froze, biopsied & cauterized several moles that I have had for a long time very quickly and painlessly. She and her staff are friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
Dr. Grayman was very efficient and to the point. She removed, shaved, froze, biopsied & cauterized several moles that I have had for a long time very quickly and painlessly. She and her staff are friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
Dr. Grayman was very efficient and to the point. She removed, shaved, froze, biopsied & cauterized several moles that I have had for a long time very quickly and painlessly. She and her staff are friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
Dr. Grayman was very efficient and to the point. She removed, shaved, froze, biopsied & cauterized several moles that I have had for a long time very quickly and painlessly. She and her staff are friendly, knowledgeable and professional.
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Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
What Causes Warts?
Warts develop when the human papillomavirus (HPV) enters the skin through tiny cuts or weakened areas, triggering rapid cell growth beneath the surface. This virus spreads easily through direct contact or shared environments, which is why exposure in places like gyms or pools can increase risk. Factors such as skin irritation, frequent shaving, or a weakened immune response can also make it easier for the virus to take hold. Many patients searching for wart treatment in Orlando, FL notice that these growths can appear gradually or spread over time without clear warning. Dr. Grayman helps identify the underlying cause and guides patients toward effective care options.
What is the likelihood that a wart will return after removal?
Despite effective treatment, warts may recur due to the virus remaining latent in surrounding tissue even after visible lesions have resolved. Recurrence rates for warts can vary based on the treatment modality used, the patient's immune response, and the anatomical location of the wart. For example, cryotherapy and Cantharidin Plus are often effective for superficial lesions but may not fully eradicate deeper viral infections. In cases of recalcitrant or recurrent warts, immunomodulatory approaches such as Candida antigen injections or topical immunotherapy may be recommended to enhance the host immune response and reduce the likelihood of future lesions.
How can I avoid passing warts to others?
HPV is transmissible through both direct skin-to-skin contact and indirectly via objects or surfaces contaminated with viral particles. To mitigate transmission, people with active warts should avoid sharing personal items such as razors, towels, or footwear. Appropriate dressings may be used to cover warts, especially on the hands or feet, to reduce viral shedding. It's also advisable to avoid picking at warts, as microabrasions can facilitate further spread. Practicing meticulous hand hygiene and maintaining intact skin barriers are essential for minimizing the risk of infecting others until you can undergo successful wart removal and the lesion clears completely.
What happens if you leave a wart untreated?
Untreated warts may persist for months or even years, as spontaneous resolution depends on the person's immune system successfully suppressing the HPV infection. In some patients, particularly those who are immunocompromised, warts can enlarge or coalesce into more extensive lesions. While many warts are benign, their persistence may lead to discomfort, bleeding, or secondary bacterial infection, particularly in areas subject to friction or pressure, as well as increasing the risk of transmission to others. Additionally, certain HPV strains carry a small risk of malignant transformation, particularly in immunosuppressed populations, making clinical evaluation and treatment advisable even for asymptomatic lesions.
No Warts, No Worries
Warts are usually harmless, but they can be an unwelcome addition to your look. Instead of spending time with over-the-counter products, get your wart(s) assessed by a trained professional, like the skilled team at Pure Skin Dermatology & Aesthetics. Our specialists will examine your skin to determine the type of wart(s) you have and the best course of treatment. Reach out to schedule a consultation, and learn more about our approach to wart removal.