What Are Warts?

The human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, infects the top layer of skin, triggering rapid growth that creates rough raised bumps known as warts. Different strands of HPV leads to distinctive types of warts, all of which have different features, characteristics, and points of development. While benign, warts are often an eyesore to patients, causing them to seek out professional care to address concerns of discomfort, spread, or aesthetics. Without medical intervention, warts can persist for months or years.

Warts are common skin growths caused by viral infections that can appear anywhere on the body. At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, our Board-Certified Dermatologists provide comprehensive evaluation and proven treatments for different types of warts using evidence-based approaches. We understand that while warts are benign, they can cause physical discomfort and cosmetic concerns that may impact your daily life.

What Causes Warts?

While HPV infection is the direct cause of warts, several factors can influence their development and spread:

  • Direct contact with infected skin
  • Breaks or cuts in the skin
  • Weakened immune system
  • Moist environments
  • Sharing personal items
  • Walking barefoot in public areas
  • Close skin-to-skin contact

While maintaining good hygiene practices can help prevent wart transmission, exposure to HPV is common and can occur despite preventive measures. The virus can remain dormant in the skin for extended periods, and whether a wart develops often depends on individual immune response and other factors beyond personal care habits.

Symptoms and Impact

Warts can appear differently depending on their location and type. Common characteristics include:

  • Plantar warts occur on the soles of feet, often causing pain or discomfort when walking. They may appear flat due to pressure and can have small black dots from tiny blood vessels.
  • Common warts typically develop on fingers, hands, and knees. They have a rough, raised surface and may be gray-brown in color.
  • Flat warts are smaller and smoother than other types. They often appear in clusters on the face, arms, or legs.
  • Genital warts appear in the genital area and require specific medical attention due to their sensitive location and association with certain HPV strains.

What Wart Treatments Are Available?

At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, we offer multiple FDA-approved and evidence-based treatments for warts. Our Board-Certified Dermatologists will evaluate your specific case to recommend the most appropriate treatment approach based on the type of wart, its location, your previous treatments, and other individual factors that may affect treatment success.

SWIFT® Microwave Technology

This innovative treatment uses controlled microwave energy to stimulate an immune response. The technology delivers precise, targeted energy to the affected area while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.

Liquid Nitrogen

Also known as cryotherapy, this treatment involves applying extremely cold liquid nitrogen to the wart. The freezing temperature destroys the infected tissue, allowing healthy skin to heal in its place.

Cantharidin

This prescription medication, derived from the blister beetle, is carefully applied to the wart in our office. The treatment creates a blister under the wart, lifting it away from the skin.

Candida Antigen

This treatment works by stimulating the body’s immune response to fight the virus causing the wart. It involves a series of injections that help the immune system recognize and target the HPV infection.

Contact Us for Your Personalized Treatment Plan

If you’re struggling with warts, know that effective treatment options are available. At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, our Board-Certified Dermatologists take time to understand your specific concerns and develop targeted treatment strategies based on the type, location, and persistence of your warts. Through evidence-based treatments and careful monitoring, we aim to help manage both current warts and reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks.

Call 303-756-7546 or contact us online to schedule your consultation and learn which treatment options may be most appropriate for your condition.

Pinpoint Skin Issues From Home

With AboutSkin’s virtual consultations, you can easily highlight specific skin concerns on your face or body and connect with a dermatology professional. Receive personalized guidance and a custom care plan—all from the comfort of home. Schedule your consultation today!

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Greenwood Village Office

5340 South Quebec ST., STE. 300 (South Entrance)
Greenwood Village, CO 80111

(303) 756-7546

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Closing effective Sept 1, 2024

10099 Ridgegate Parkway, Ste. 490 (Conifer Building)
Lone Tree, CO 80124

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