Warts are common, benign skin growths that arise from infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on various body parts, often presenting as firm, rough lumps. This article explains what to expect when a wart sheds, immediate aftercare, and recurrence prevention.
The Process of Wart Shedding
Warts can shed naturally as the immune system works to clear the HPV infection. This natural regression can take several months to years, particularly in children. Alternatively, various treatments can expedite the shedding process. These treatments include topical applications like salicylic acid, which works by gradually peeling away layers of the wart, and cryotherapy, which freezes the wart tissue.
As a wart detaches, visual changes occur. The wart may darken, often turning black or brown, as the affected tissue dies. It might also shrink in size and start to dry out, peel, or flake off. For treatments like cryotherapy, a blister, which can be clear or blood-filled, often forms at the site and eventually scabs over.
Once the wart has completely shed, the underlying skin may appear pink or slightly raw. In some cases, especially with plantar warts that grow inward, a slight indentation or “hole” might be visible, which typically fills in as new, healthy skin grows. The skin should eventually return to its normal color and texture, losing the characteristic rough, cauliflower-like appearance of the wart.
Immediate Aftercare Steps
After a wart falls off, proper aftercare supports healing and prevents complications. Begin by gently cleaning the area with mild soap and water. This helps remove any debris and reduces the risk of infection. Pat the area dry thoroughly after washing.
If the skin beneath the wart appears raw, tender, or is bleeding slightly, covering it with a clean bandage can provide protection. A bandage shields the delicate new skin from irritation and external contaminants. Minor bleeding is generally normal and can often be stopped by applying light, direct pressure to the area.
Observe the treated site to ensure the wart has been completely removed. The skin should look relatively smooth and may be slightly pink. There should be no visible black dots, which can indicate remaining wart tissue or clotted blood vessels, nor should the skin feel raised or bumpy. If a blister formed and burst, apply an antibiotic ointment and keep it covered.
Preventing Recurrence and When to Seek Advice
Warts can sometimes recur even after they have fallen off, as HPV may remain present in the surrounding skin. Maintaining good hygiene helps reduce recurrence. Regularly wash your hands, especially after touching any skin growths.
Avoid picking at the treated area or any new skin growths, as this can spread the virus to other body parts or to other individuals. Wearing footwear in public areas like showers and swimming pools can help prevent reinfection, as HPV thrives in warm, moist environments. Keeping skin healthy and moisturized can also reduce the chance of the virus entering through cracks or breaks in the skin.
Professional medical advice should be sought in several specific situations. If the wart does not appear to be completely gone, indicated by remaining black dots or persistent raised tissue, further treatment may be necessary. Signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pus, or significant pain, warrant a medical evaluation. Additionally, if new warts appear nearby, the area bleeds excessively, or if you have a compromised immune system or diabetes, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.