Warts

Warts are small, rough growths on the skin caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). They are usually harmless and not cancerous, but they can be bothersome and can spread. Warts are most common in children and young adults but can affect anyone.

Common types

• Common warts — on fingers, hands, knees, elbows; firm, rough, cauliflower-like
• Plantar warts — on the soles of feet; can be painful from walking pressure
• Flat warts — smoother, smaller; often on the face, legs, or arms
• Filiform warts — thin, finger-like; around the eyes, mouth, or nose
• Genital warts — on the genitals or anal area; sexually transmitted (see our HPV page)

How they spread

• Direct skin-to-skin contact
• Via surfaces — public showers, swimming pools, gym floors
• Sharing towels, shoes, razors
• Picking or scratching spreads them to other parts of your own body
• Genital warts — through sexual contact

Treatment

Many warts go away on their own over months or years, especially in children. Treatment options if needed:

• Salicylic acid — over-the-counter liquids, gels, or plasters; used daily for several weeks
• Cryotherapy — freezing with liquid nitrogen, done in a doctor's clinic; usually needs multiple sessions
• Electrosurgery / curettage — for stubborn warts
• Laser treatment
• Topical immune-response creams — for certain types
• Genital warts — specific treatments prescribed by a doctor

See a doctor for warts that are painful, bleeding, spreading rapidly, on the face or genitals, or that don't respond to over-the-counter treatment. People with diabetes or weakened immunity should have any warts assessed by a doctor rather than self-treating.

Prevention

• Don't pick at or scratch warts
• Cover warts when in public changing rooms or pools
• Wear flip-flops in public showers
• Don't share personal items
• Good hand hygiene
• HPV vaccination prevents genital warts and related cancers