Warts are common skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Many disappear on their own, but stubborn or painful warts often need treatment. Patients at London Wart Clinic frequently ask which removal option is most effective, and the truth is, the best method depends on the type of wart, its location, and how long it has been present.
This guide compares the most common wart removal options available in the UK, from over-the-counter treatments to procedures carried out by private surgeons.
Over-the-Counter Wart Treatments
Most pharmacies in the UK stock wart treatments that contain salicylic acid. These soften and gradually dissolve the wart over weeks.
- Pros: Cheap, widely available, no appointment needed.
- Cons: Require daily use for up to 12 weeks, often ineffective for deep or multiple warts.
Some products use dimethyl ether propane (DMEP) freezing kits, but they are much weaker than medical cryotherapy.
Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)
Cryotherapy is a common option in dermatology clinics. The wart is sprayed with liquid nitrogen, freezing and destroying infected tissue.
- Pros: Quick treatment (a few minutes), widely used by GPs and dermatologists.
- Cons: Can be painful, may blister, often requires repeat sessions (2–6 treatments).
NHS cryotherapy is increasingly limited, meaning many patients seek private clinics for faster access.
Cautery (Electrosurgery)
In cautery, a doctor applies heat via a fine probe to burn away the wart tissue.
- Pros: Immediate removal, effective for resistant or painful warts.
- Cons: Performed under local anaesthetic, may leave a small scar.
Cautery is often used for single warts on the hands, face, or feet that have resisted other treatments.
Laser Wart Removal
Laser treatment uses focused light to destroy the wart’s blood supply, causing the lesion to die off.
- Pros: Useful for multiple or hard-to-reach warts.
- Cons: More costly, may require local anaesthetic, mild scarring possible.
Private dermatology clinics often reserve this method for patients who have tried other options without success.
Surgical Excision
Surgical removal involves cutting out the wart under local anaesthetic.
- Pros: Immediate removal, guaranteed clearance of targeted lesion.
- Cons: May leave a scar, not suitable for multiple warts, risk of recurrence if HPV remains in surrounding tissue.
This option is generally reserved for cases where other methods have failed or when diagnosis is uncertain.
Comparing Wart Removal Methods
| Treatment Method | Timeframe | Avg Cost (Private) | Success Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Over-the-counter salicylic acid | Daily, 8–12 weeks | £10–£30 | 50–60% | Best for small/simple warts. |
| Cryotherapy | Every 2–3 weeks, 2–6 sessions | £80–£120 per session | 60–70% | Most common clinical method. |
| Cautery (electrosurgery) | One session | £250–£400 | 80–90% | Effective but may scar. |
| Laser removal | One session (sometimes two) | £300–£500 | 70–85% | Useful for multiple/recurrent warts. |
| Surgical excision | One session | £350–£600 | 90%+ | Last resort, immediate clearance. |
When to See a Doctor
If a wart is painful, spreading, resistant to pharmacy treatments, or affecting your confidence, it may be time to seek private care. London Wart Clinic’s doctors and surgeons provide tailored removal options, ensuring safe treatment and long-term results.