Last Updated: 11 December 2018
Warts and
verrucas are small lumps on the skin that most people have at some point in
their life. They usually go away on their own but may take months or even
years. Warts do not cause you any harm but some people find
them itchy, painful or embarrassing. Verrucas are more likely to be painful –
like standing on a needle.
You can treat warts if they bother you, keep coming back or are painful. A pharmacist can help
with warts and verrucas. You can buy creams, plasters and sprays from pharmacies to get rid of
warts and verrucas.
These treatments can take up to three months to complete, may irritate your
skin and do not always work. You should not use these treatments on your face. Your pharmacist can give you advice about the best treatment for you.
Treatment from your GP
Your family doctor/ GP may be able to freeze a wart or verruca so it falls off a few
weeks later. Sometimes it takes a few sessions. Check with your GP if the NHS pays for this treatment in your area.
If treatment has not worked or you have a wart on your face, your GP
might refer you to a skin specialist. Other treatments include minor surgery
and treatment with laser or light.
How to stop warts and
verrucas spreading
Warts and verrucas are caused by a virus. They can be spread to other
people from contaminated surfaces or through close skin contact. You are more
likely to spread a wart or verruca if your skin is wet or damaged. It can take months for a wart or verruca to appear after contact with
the virus.
Source: NHS Choices