Warts are a common skin condition that can affect individuals of all ages. While they are generally harmless, they can be bothersome, contagious, and sometimes painful, particularly when located on the feet or other pressure areas.
A dermatologist in Singapore is trained to identify the type of wart and recommend suitable treatment options based on its cause, size, and location. Understanding the available wart removal treatments helps patients make informed decisions about their care.
Understanding Warts and Their Causes
Warts are non-cancerous growths caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus infects the top layer of skin through small cuts or abrasions, leading to localised thickening of the skin.
Different HPV strains are responsible for different types of warts:
- Common warts – often appear on the hands or fingers.
- Plantar warts – develop on the soles of the feet and may feel painful when walking.
- Flat warts – smoother and smaller, usually seen on the face or legs.
- Filiform warts – thread-like projections that can form around the eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Genital warts – occur in the genital area and require specialised medical evaluation.
Although warts can disappear spontaneously over time, many persist and may spread to nearby areas without appropriate treatment.
When to Seek Medical Treatment
Patients are advised to consult a dermatologist or skin doctor in Singapore if:
- The wart becomes painful, inflamed, or begins to bleed.
- It spreads rapidly or recurs after home treatments.
- It appears on sensitive areas such as the face or genitals.
- The patient has diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced immunity.
Professional assessment ensures that the correct diagnosis is made, as some growths that resemble warts may actually be other skin conditions requiring different management.
Treatment Options for Wart Removal in Singapore
Wart removal methods are selected according to the wart’s type, depth, and number, as well as the patient’s skin sensitivity. Treatments offered at dermatology clinics in Singapore may include the following:
1. Topical Medications
Dermatologists may prescribe topical solutions containing ingredients such as salicylic acid that soften and gradually remove wart tissue. These are typically used for smaller or superficial warts and may require consistent application over several weeks.
2. Cryotherapy (Freezing)
Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the wart, destroying the infected tissue. The treated area may blister and heal over the following days. Several sessions may be necessary for complete clearance, especially for stubborn or multiple warts.
3. Electrosurgery or Cautery
In this procedure, the wart is removed using controlled electrical current or heat. It is usually performed under local anaesthesia and is suitable for thicker or resistant warts. Post-procedure care helps minimise scarring and infection risk.
4. Laser Therapy
Laser and dermatology techniques are widely used for warts that do not respond to other treatments. Laser skin therapy targets the blood vessels supplying the wart, cutting off its nutrient source and leading to gradual removal.
This approach can be applied to both common and plantar warts under the supervision of an accredited dermatologist laser specialist.
5. Immunotherapy
For recurrent warts, dermatologists may use immunotherapy to stimulate the body’s immune system to fight the virus. This can involve topical or injectable agents that trigger a local immune response against HPV.
6. Surgical Excision
In cases where warts are large or deeply embedded, minor surgical excision under sterile conditions may be recommended. The procedure removes the affected tissue directly and is followed by appropriate wound care and monitoring.
Post-Treatment Care
After wart removal, patients should keep the treated area clean and protected. Avoid picking or scratching the site, as this may cause infection or recurrence. A skin specialist clinic in Singapore will usually schedule follow-up visits to check healing progress and manage any new lesions if they appear.
Recurrence can occur even after successful removal, so continued skin observation and preventive care are important.
Prevention and Home Care Tips
While professional treatment is the most reliable way to remove warts, preventive habits can help reduce the risk of recurrence or spread:
- Avoid sharing towels, footwear, or razors.
- Keep feet and hands dry, especially in humid conditions.
- Cover warts with waterproof plasters during swimming or sports.
- Refrain from biting nails or picking at existing warts.
- Wear footwear in public showers, pools, or locker rooms to prevent plantar warts.
These practices help limit viral transmission and protect surrounding skin.
Choosing a Skin Specialist in Singapore
When seeking wart removal in Singapore, patients should consult a medical skin clinic or dermatology clinic accredited by the Ministry of Health (MOH).
A qualified Singapore dermatologist can assess the wart’s characteristics, discuss appropriate treatment options, and provide advice on prevention and aftercare. Clinics that offer both medical dermatology and laser skin therapy can manage various wart types and ensure treatment continuity from diagnosis through recovery.
Checking that the doctor is registered with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) provides additional assurance of professional qualification and ethical standards.
Warts are common skin growths caused by viral infection, and while they may seem minor, persistent or spreading warts can benefit from professional treatment. Various wart removal options in Singapore, including cryotherapy, electrosurgery, laser therapy, and topical medication, are available under medical supervision.
Consulting a qualified dermatologist in Singapore ensures that each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s condition, supporting safe removal and reducing the chance of recurrence. With appropriate care and prevention, most warts can be effectively managed and resolved over time.
