At our CQC-registered dermatology clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team can confirm that a growth really is a wart or verruca and treat it with cryotherapy. Patients travel to us from across Kent, including Canterbury, Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover and Deal.
About the Condition
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through tiny breaks. Verrucas are warts on the soles of the feet, where pressure from walking can push them inwards. The virus spreads by direct contact and from damp surfaces such as swimming pool floors and changing rooms.
Common features include:
- A rough, raised or cauliflower-like growth on the hands, fingers or feet
- A flatter, firm patch on the sole of the foot, sometimes with tiny black dots
- Tenderness when pressing on or walking on the growth
- Growths that spread or appear in clusters
- Warts that have not cleared with over-the-counter treatments
Warts are more common in children and teenagers, and can be harder to clear if the immune system is lowered. They often disappear on their own over months or years, but this is unpredictable, and treatment is reasonable if a wart is painful, spreading or causing embarrassment. Other skin growths, including corns, skin tags and seborrhoeic keratoses, can look similar, so a proper diagnosis means you are treated for the right thing.
How We Treat It
Treatment is a matter of preference for most warts, and the first step is confirming the diagnosis. Our usual treatment is cryotherapy, in which liquid nitrogen is applied to freeze the wart.
Most warts and verrucas need several sessions a few weeks apart, so we will plan your follow-up appointments as you go. A verruca on the sole of the foot may feel tender for a day or two afterwards. Individual results vary, and persistent warts sometimes need a different approach, which our team will discuss with you.
When to See a Specialist
Most warts are harmless, but it is worth having a growth assessed if you are unsure what it is, particularly if it bleeds, changes colour or shape, or does not respond to treatment.
Book a consultation if a wart or verruca is painful, spreading or has lasted for a long time. Please have any growth that bleeds easily or changes quickly checked without delay, or call us for a swift appointment. If you have diabetes or reduced sensation in your feet, please seek advice before treating a verruca yourself.
Further reading: NHS – Warts and verrucas · DermNet – Viral warts · British Association of Dermatologists
Frequently Asked Questions
Are warts and verrucas contagious?
Yes, the virus can spread by direct contact and from damp communal surfaces. Covering a verruca in swimming pools and not sharing towels or footwear helps reduce the chance of passing it on.
Will a wart go away on its own?
Many do, but it can take months or years. Treatment is a reasonable choice if a wart is painful, spreading or bothering you.
How does cryotherapy work?
Liquid nitrogen is applied to the wart to freeze it. The treated skin then blisters or forms a scab and the wart gradually separates. Most warts need more than one session.
Is cryotherapy painful?
Most people feel a brief stinging or cold sensation, which can be uncomfortable on the soles of the feet. It is over quickly and tolerated by most patients.
How many sessions will I need?
Most warts and verrucas need three or more sessions at intervals. This varies with the size, number and location of the lesions, and we will advise you at your appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with us, online or by phone.
Get your concern assessed
First step
Cryotherapy: 1 to 5 lesions £300, 6 to 10 lesions £350, 10 or more £400, subsequent sessions from £200
Appointment
30 minutes
Availability
Usually within 1 to 2 weeks
Treatments for Warts and Verrucas
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