Wart Removal Treatments: When to See a Specialist and What to Expect

Warts might seem like a minor nuisance, but they can become a persistent and frustrating skin issue. While many warts clear up on their own or respond to over-the-counter treatments, others can be stubborn, painful or even contagious.

So, how do you know when it’s time to stop self-treating and see a professional?

We will explore the key signs that indicate it is time to see a specialist for wart removal and why seeing a specialist early could save you from discomfort.

What are warts and why do they appear?

Types of warts

Warts are benign, skin growths that can develop due to strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are many different types of warts, including:

• Common warts: These typically appear on your hands and often feel like rough bumps.
• Plantar warts: Plantar warts typically form on the soles of your feet. They are often flat or grow inward and can have black dots.
• Mosaic warts: These warts are white and about the size of a pinhead. They typically form on the balls of your feet or under your toes.
• Flat warts: Flat warts, also known as plane warts, can develop anywhere on your body. They are smaller and smoother than other warts and tend to grow in large numbers.
• Filiform warts: These warts look like long threads that stick out. They often grow on your face, around your mouth, eyes and nose.

What causes warts?

Warts are caused by certain strains of HPV. The virus can enter your skin through small cuts and cause extra cell growth. The outer layer of your skin turns thicker and harder, forming a wart.

HPV can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching contaminated surfaces, such as those in public swimming pools, gyms, or shared showers. Warts are more likely to infect moist and soft skin or injured skin.

When to consult a cosmetic specialist for wart removal

While many warts resolve on their own or with over-the-counter treatments, there may be certain times when you will want to consult a cosmetic specialist.

• If your wart hasn’t improved over several weeks, or if it keeps coming back, a specialist can offer more advanced and effective wart removal options.
• If a wart appears on a highly visible area like your face, hands, or neck and affects your self-confidence then a cosmetic specialist can offer precise, scar minimising solutions.
• If you have a weakened immune system, you may find it more challenging to get rid of warts naturally, therefore a wart removal treatment may be necessary.
• If you have tried multiple over-the-counter treatments and home remedies without results. This is a sign that professional intervention may be needed for more effective results.

By consulting with our world renowned doctors at the right time, you can take advantage of targeted treatments. This will ensure faster, safer wart removal with minimal risk of complications.

Treatment options offered by EF Medispa

Whilst warts are not necessarily harmful, some people may find that they can affect their self-confidence. If you have a wart that is causing you concern, we offer some effective treatments to remove them. The type of treatment most beneficial for you will depend on the type of wart you have and the size of the wart.

Freezing (Cryotherapy)

This non-invasive method of wart removal involves the direct application of liquid nitrogen in order to freeze the wart. This causes a type of blister to form around the wart, which turns into dead skin cells. It will then gradually flake or peel away until the wart is removed entirely.

Excision

A wart can be carefully cut out or excised during a minor surgical procedure. This procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and once the wart is removed the area will require a small stitch to help heal the opening.

What to expect during your treatment

Removal time

Most wart removal treatments are quick and usually last no longer than 20 minutes, regardless of where they are on your body. However, removal time varies depending on the size and deepness of the wart.

Number of treatments

Warts have a habit of returning, so your treatment may need to be repeated to permanently remove them. During your consultation, your dermatologist will examine your wart and be able to advise you on the number of treatments you may require.

Treatment discomfort

The level of discomfort you will experience during the wart removal treatment is dependent on the technique used. For excision, the area is numbed with local anaesthetic.

After the treatment, the skin may be tender for a few days and will need to have a dressing applied.

Wart removal aftercare

After your wart removal treatment, there will be some steps to follow:

1. Your treatment coordinator will recommend moisturising the treated area.
2. The treated area may blister. If it breaks, use an antiseptic wipe to minimise any spread.
3. Use aloe vera gel to help hydrate the skin’s surface.
4. Avoid exposing the area to direct sunlight. Use a high factor SPF if necessary.
5. Wash the area using a non-irritant cleanser.

Wart removal with EF Medispa

At EF Medispa, we are proud to have 17 years experience, with a team of approachable clinical practitioners and dermatologists who are here to support you every step of the way. Our treatment coordinators are always available to offer guidance before and after your treatment. Ensuring you feel confident and cared for throughout.

During your consultation, our specialists will carefully examine your wart, listen to your concerns and clearly explain your treatment options. They will help you choose the most effective wart removal method tailored to your needs.

Book a consultation with EF Medispa today at one of our multiple clinics in London and start your journey toward clearer, healthier skin.