Warts

Warts are benign skin growths that emerge when a virus infects the top layer of the skin. Typically, warts are not painful. They are usually skin-colored and can appear anywhere on the body, and are most commonly found on the hands, fingers, and feet. While some warts go away without treatment, other warts are more persistent, and do not disappear on their own. 

There are many types of warts, and most of them are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). While warts are benign growths, it is important to treat them as soon as possible. Warts are highly contagious, and may spread to other parts of your body and even to other people. Additionally, some warts have the risk of turning into skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma. Many over-the-counter medications will remove warts, but if the warts are persistent, you will need to seek treatment from a medical doctor. It is important not to try to burn, freeze, cut, or tear away the wart yourself, as you may cause unnecessary trauma to the skin over a harmless wart.

If you are concerned about possible warts on your skin, visit Dr. Adrianna Browne at her Bay Area clinic Illustra Dermatology for treatment. Dr. Browne offers many options for wart removal—ranging from cryotherapy, laser removal, excision, immunotherapy and various topical and injectable medications.

Overall, the recommended treatment for wart removal will depend on the location and size of the wart(s). Dr. Browne might administer topical treatments such as cantharidin or salicylic acid, which aid in destroying the warts. Alternatively, the warts can be frozen off, lasered away, or excised with a sharp tool. Warts can be stubborn, therefore multiple treatment sessions may be necessary to get rid of them. 

Dr. Browne is a leading Bay Area dermatologist, and is highly skilled in treating stubborn warts, and anything else that may affect your skin health. Certified by the American Board of Dermatology, she has multiple degrees and is focused on the results that will enhance or restore your skin health. The care and treatment she provides is specifically customized to you. So whether you need a dermatologist for warts in the Bay Area, or if something else is on (or under) your skin, contact Illustra Dermatology for consultation today.