Warts and verrucae are caused by the same virus (HPV), but they appear in different areas. A wart typically forms on the hands, fingers, or other parts of the body, while a verruca develops on the sole of the foot. Verrucae often grow inward due to pressure from walking and may have black dots in the centre.

Yes, we treat a full range of warts and skin tags, including common warts, plantar warts (verrucae), filiform warts, flat warts, periungual warts, genital warts, and skin tags of all sizes. Our team can assess and recommend the most suitable treatment for each type based on its size, location, and severity.

Most warts and verrucae are harmless and benign, but they can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and contagious. In some cases, they may spread or become painful if left untreated – particularly verrucae on weight-bearing areas of the foot. It’s always advisable to have any new or changing growth assessed by a specialist.

Not all skin growths are warts. They could be:

• Seborrhoeic keratoses

• Skin tags (acrochordons)

• Molluscum contagiosum

• Actinic keratoses

• Corns or calluses

• Basal cell carcinoma (rare)

• Dermatofibromas

• Moles or atypical naevi

A proper diagnosis is key before any treatment is carried out.

Warts and verrucae are extremely common, especially among children, teenagers, and people with reduced immunity. Around 1 in 3 people will experience a wart or verruca at some point. They often spread in communal areas like gyms, swimming pools, or shared showers.

In some cases, yes – especially in children and younger adults with a strong immune response. However, this process can take months or even years. If the wart is painful, spreading, or persistent, professional treatment is often the most effective solution.

To reduce the risk of recurrence:

• Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas

• Keep feet dry and clean

• Avoid picking or scratching at warts

• Do not share towels or footwear

• Cover warts with a plaster when in public spaces

• Support your immune system with a healthy lifestyle

Shave excision is a minor surgical technique used to remove raised warts or skin tags. The area is numbed with local anaesthetic before the lesion is gently shaved off the skin’s surface. It’s quick, safe, and typically leaves minimal scarring.

The best treatment depends on the type and location of the wart. Electrocautery offers excellent results for facial or stubborn warts, while cryotherapy is ideal for smaller lesions. Surgical removal is most effective for large or deep-rooted growths. Our team will recommend the most appropriate method after assessment.

Most treatments are well tolerated. Local anaesthetic is used for procedures like electrocautery and surgical removal, so you won’t feel pain during the treatment. Some discomfort or tenderness may occur afterwards, but this is usually mild and temporary.

Yes, you can usually walk immediately after verruca removal. However, if the verruca was deep or removed surgically, you may need to limit high-impact activities for a few days while the area heals. We’ll provide full aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.

This depends on the size, depth, and type of wart. Some can be removed in a single session, while others – especially verrucae – may require multiple treatments spaced a few weeks apart. We’ll assess your progress and adjust the plan as needed.

The black dots you see in a verruca are tiny clotted blood vessels, often referred to as “wart seeds”. They’re a common feature and part of the wart’s blood supply. Their presence often helps confirm the diagnosis.

Private treatment is an investment in faster, more effective results. Costs vary depending on the treatment method and number of lesions, but we aim to keep pricing transparent and competitive. Many patients find it worthwhile, especially when NHS options are limited or unavailable.