At London Wart Clinic, our approach to wart treatment is guided by medical evidence, clinical experience, and an understanding that no two patients or warts are the same. While warts are common and usually harmless, they can be painful, persistent, or distressing. Effective care depends on accurate assessment, appropriate treatment selection, and realistic expectations.

This page explains how we approach wart treatment in a clinical setting, why personalised care matters, and how current dermatological guidance informs every stage of management.

Understanding the wart before treating it

Not all warts behave in the same way. Differences in wart type, location, depth, duration, and the patient’s immune response all influence treatment outcomes.

Before recommending treatment, we assess:

• The type of wart, such as common, plantar, periungual, filiform, or genital

• How long the wart has been present

• Whether it is painful, bleeding, spreading, or changing

• Previous treatments and responses

• The impact on daily activities, comfort, or confidence

This initial assessment reflects guidance used in dermatology, which emphasises correct diagnosis as the foundation of safe and effective treatment.

Why a tailored approach matters

Research consistently shows that no single wart treatment works for everyone. Clearance rates vary widely depending on the method used and the individual characteristics of the wart and patient.

A tailored approach allows us to:

• Avoid unnecessary or overly aggressive treatment

• Reduce pain, scarring, and recurrence risk

• Select methods supported by evidence for that specific wart type

• Adjust treatment if response is slow or incomplete

In many cases, combining clinical judgement with patient preference leads to better outcomes than following a rigid protocol.

When treatment is recommended and when it is not

Not all warts require immediate treatment. Clinical guidelines recognise that some warts resolve on their own as the immune system clears the virus.

Treatment is usually recommended when:

• The wart is painful or interferes with walking or daily tasks

• There is repeated bleeding or infection

• The wart is spreading or increasing in number

• Previous self-treatment has failed

• The wart causes significant cosmetic or psychological distress

In other situations, reassurance and monitoring may be the most appropriate option. This is discussed openly with patients so decisions are informed rather than automatic.

Treatment selection based on evidence

Our treatment recommendations are informed by published studies, clinical guidelines, and real-world outcomes seen in dermatology practice.

Factors influencing treatment choice include:

• Wart thickness and depth

• Skin location and healing capacity

• Tolerance for discomfort

• Risk of scarring in visible areas

• Likelihood of recurrence

Commonly used approaches include cryotherapy, cautery, and minor surgical removal. Each has advantages and limitations, and success often depends on correct timing and follow-up rather than the technique alone.

Managing expectations and outcomes

An important part of wart treatment is setting realistic expectations. Even with appropriate treatment, warts can require more than one session, and recurrence is possible.

We discuss:

• Likely number of treatments

• Expected healing time

• Possible side effects such as soreness or blistering

• Signs of normal healing versus complications

• When review or retreatment may be needed

This transparency reflects best practice in patient-centred care and helps patients feel confident throughout the process.

Safety, infection control, and clinical standards

Warts are caused by viral infection of the skin. Safe treatment requires strict infection control and appropriate clinical technique.

Our approach follows established medical standards for:

• Sterile instruments and clinical hygiene

• Minimising viral spread to surrounding skin

• Protecting healthy tissue

• Reducing post-treatment complications

These standards align with guidance used across UK dermatology services.

Ongoing review and adaptation

Wart treatment is not static. If a wart does not respond as expected, the approach is reviewed. This may involve changing the treatment method, adjusting intervals between sessions, or reassessing the diagnosis.

Continuous review ensures care remains appropriate and evidence-led rather than procedural.

A balanced, informed approach

Our approach to wart treatment balances medical evidence, clinical experience, and patient needs. By focusing on accurate assessment, appropriate intervention, and clear communication, we aim to provide treatment that is effective, safe, and proportionate.