What do warts look like?
Warts are small, raised growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body, but the most common types are found on the hands, feet, and face.
Warts often have a rough, grainy texture and may vary in size. Some warts have a cauliflower-like appearance, while others can be flat or raised. They may be skin-coloured, pink, or darker than the surrounding skin. Warts can sometimes be painful, especially when they appear on areas that experience pressure, such as the soles of the feet.
What causes warts?
Warts are caused by an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which leads to the growth of abnormal skin cells.
The virus is contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, such as towels, shoes, or floors in public spaces.
Some key factors that increase your risk of developing warts include:
- Direct contact with an infected person or surface.
- Weakened immune system: People with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to developing warts.
- Cut or broken skin: An injury or break in the skin can provide an entry point for the virus.
Should I be Concerned about warts?
Most warts are harmless and will eventually go away on their own, but this can take months or even years. Some warts can become painful, especially if they develop on weight-bearing areas like the feet.
Warts are also contagious, so it’s important to avoid picking or scratching them to prevent the spread of the virus. In some cases, warts can be stubborn and persist for a long time. If warts are causing pain, spreading, or not responding to over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to seek professional help.
How do we treat warts at Elite Skin Studio?
At Elite Skin Studio, we offer a safe and effective treatment for wart removal using advanced electrolysis. This technique uses short-wave diathermy to target the wart with controlled heat, effectively eliminating the growth.
Here’s how we approach wart removal:
- Consultation: During your consultation, we will assess the size, number, and location of the warts to determine the most suitable treatment plan for you.
- Treatment: Using advanced electrolysis, we will apply a fine, sterile probe to the wart to deliver a controlled amount of heat, which destroys the wart tissue. This treatment may take multiple sessions, depending on the size and depth of the wart.
- Multiple Sessions Required: Warts can be stubborn and may require several treatment sessions to fully remove. Results may vary, and some warts may take time to respond to treatment.
- Aftercare: After treatment, you may experience mild redness, swelling, or scabbing around the treated area. This is completely normal and will subside within a few days. We’ll provide aftercare instructions to help support the healing process.
How do I prevent warts from coming back?
While wart removal treatment at Elite Skin Studio is effective, there is no guaranteed way to prevent warts from coming back. However, the following steps can help reduce the risk:
- Good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors.
- Protect broken skin: Keep cuts, blisters, or abrasions covered to prevent the virus from entering.
- Avoid picking or scratching warts: This can prevent the spread of the virus to other areas of your body or to others.
What are the limitations of wart treatment?
Wart removal can be a gradual process. While advanced electrolysis is an effective treatment for many types of warts, results are not always immediate, and several sessions may be necessary.
Warts can also be stubborn and may recur after treatment, especially if the underlying viral infection isn’t fully addressed. It’s important to manage expectations and be patient during the treatment process. Regular follow-up sessions may be required to achieve optimal results.
