Treating Warts

There are many skin issues that can make us feel a bit self-conscious, including warts. These are growths caused by the spread of a virus known as HPV or human papillomavirus. While this may seem a bit frightening, the good news is that the virus and resulting skin growth can typically be prevented with a few steps. Dr. Sharon Horton and the team at Advanced Dermatology and Mohs Surgery in Batavia, Wheaton, Elgin, Dekalb, Naperville, Aurora, & St. Charles, IL share these steps below. 

1. Keep Your Hands to Yourself 

 Viruses like HPV can spread through contact when you have openings in your skin. If you know someone with a wart, don’t touch it. If someone in your home has one, keep it covered to prevent spreading the virus.

2. Take Care of Your Skin 

 Like many viruses, HPV can be anywhere, but you can’t always avoid touching things. You can, however, keep germs at bay by washing your hands often. Additionally, you can prevent dry, cracked skin that leaves an opening for the virus by keeping your hands moisturized. If you have any cuts or scrapes, clean them and keep them covered. 

3. Be Protective Over Personal Items 

 Sharing is always a good thing – unless it puts you at risk. When it comes to towels, razors, nail clippers, and even shoes and socks, it’s wise to be a bit stingy. Instead of sharing with others, make sure everyone in your house has their own and keep them separate. This helps prevent spreading the virus, even if you don’t yet realize you have it.

4. Cover Your Feet in Public Spaces 

 Much like fungal infections, HPV is easy to pick up in wet, moist environments. This includes places like gym showers and public pools. Keep flip-flops or water shoes on in these areas, as you never know what small cracks might be present on your feet. 

5. Work With a Specialist 

 Some people have chronic dry skin or a condition known as hyperhidrosis that leads to excessive sweating. Such conditions can make picking up HPV and other infections more likely. Dr. Horton and the team at Advanced Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Batavia, Wheaton, Elgin, Dekalb, Naperville, Aurora, & St. Charles, IL can help reduce your chances of developing warts by finding the most effective treatment options for such conditions. They can also recommend additional prevention steps for your specific needs. 

Learn more about preventing warts or get help with treatment from Dr. Horton and the team at Advanced Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Batavia, Wheaton, Elgin, Dekalb, Naperville, Aurora, & St. Charles, IL. Call (630) 482-3700 to schedule an appointment today.