4 Common Types of Warts You Should Know About

Did you know warts can pop up at any age and almost anywhere on your body? Dermatologist Douglass Forsha, MD, and our team at Jordan Valley Dermatology Center in South Jordan, Utah, are here to help you tackle every type of wart and prevent them from spreading. 

Understanding the four common types of warts can help you recognize if you have a wart or something else and discover ways to prevent and treat them effectively. 

1. Plantar warts

Plantar warts are common and usually harmless. These small, rough growths typically appear on the pressure points of your feet, like your heels or balls of your feet, and may resemble a solid blister or have a cauliflower-like texture. 

You might also notice tiny black dots in the center, which are clotted blood vessels. The good news is that treating plantar warts can be simple and relatively painless. Over-the-counter salicylic acid solutions or patches can help dissolve the wart over time.  Cryotherapy (freezing the wart using liquid nitrogen) and other options are available at Jordan Valley Dermatology. 

Patience and consistent treatment are essential, as it may take several weeks to rid your feet of the growths entirely. 

2. Common warts 

Common warts can be bothersome but are usually harmless. These warts result from a virus and appear as rough, raised bumps on the skin that are usually round with small black dots in the center. They typically occur on hands and feet and can spread to other body parts if left untreated. 

Treatment options for common warts include topical solutions like salicylic acid, cryotherapy, or other medical interventions. If you have a common wart, visit your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations tailored to your needs.

3. Flat warts

Flat warts are common skin growths affecting people of any age and gender. It’s easy to mistake these flesh-colored, small bumps on the face, hands, and feet for scabs or pimples. However, flat warts tend to be smoother and flatter than the average skin growth.

 Although these bumps are rarely serious, knowing how to spot them and what treatments may help is essential. If you’re unsure if yours are flat warts, look closer at their size (typically 2-4mm in diameter) and shape (they tend to have slightly sharp edges). 

Common symptoms include itchiness and burning sensations, which may cause some discomfort. Dr. Forsha has many methods of treating flat warts.

4. Filiform warts

The distinctive appearance of filiform warts can cause concern, but recognizing the signs and seeking proper treatment can help. These thread-like protrusions often sprout from the face, neck, and eyelids, making them noticeable and potentially uncomfortable. 

While removing them yourself is tempting, reaching out to a health care professional is always the best action. The experts at Jordan Valley Dermatology thoroughly assess your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment, reducing the risk of scarring or infection. 

Warts can be a nuisance and can cause frustration. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can manage a current outbreak and prevent future ones. If you have questions about warts, please call Jordan Valley Dermatology in South Jordan at 801-335-6728. Warts are treatable and manageable when given the necessary attention.