Causes, Types and What to Know
Warts are a commonplace skin concern in children, especially on the hands and feet, and while they may cause some discomfort or embarrassment, they are rarely a cause for alarm.
They can appear in different shapes and sizes and often resolve on their own over time.
By learning more about what causes warts and the types most likely to affect children, parents can feel more confident in recognising and managing this common skin issue.
What Are Warts in Children?
Warts are common and usually harmless skin growths caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
They often affect children due to minor skin breaks or close contact environments like schools, sports activities, or swimming pools, where the virus can be more easily spread.
In children, warts may appear as small, rough bumps that can develop on the hands, feet, or other areas of the body. While they can sometimes be tender or uncomfortable, they are generally not dangerous.
Warts are skin growths on the top layer of skin that are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). This creates benign thickening of the skin and is inconvenient, especially if it happens in a visible place.
Children are most susceptible to warts because they get a lot of cuts. Still, anyone can get warts. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with autoimmune disease and the elderly, are also susceptible to the HPV virus that causes warts.
The virus spreads through direct skin contact and contact with damp floors such as swimming pools, exercise rooms, showers or changing rooms. Hence, most warts are found under feet and on the hands. Good hygiene is important to prevent contamination as much as possible. Family members of someone with a wart are at greater risk to come in contact with the virus, for example, through a shared towel or a door handle.
Scratching or nail biting increases the chance of spreading on one's own body. It is important to start treatment on a wart quickly to avoid new warts from developing and to prevent the distress that comes with warts.
What Causes Warts in Children?
Warts in children are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can enter the skin through tiny cuts, scrapes, or other minor breaks.
The virus is more easily picked up in shared environments, such as swimming pools, communal showers, or sports changing rooms, where bare skin may come into contact with surfaces carrying the virus.
Because children are often active and in close contact with others, they may be more likely to encounter situations where the virus is present. Good hygiene and covering skin breaks may help reduce the spread of warts among children.
Types of Warts
Common Warts (Verruca vulgaris)
These warts are small, usually round and rough and have a "cauliflower-like", dome shaped appearance. They are usually found on the hands, elbows, and knees. Use one of the Wart-Off range products to treat this wart.
Plantar Warts (Verruca plantaris)
These warts occur on the bottom of soles of the feet. They sometimes have visible dark specks beneath the surface. They are flat because of walking and standing and can be painful. Use one of the Wart-Off range products to treat this wart.
Water Warts (Molluscum contagiosum)
These warts are caused by a pox virus and not HPV, and does not have to be treated. To protect an inflamed wart, a plaster will suffice. You can squeeze a wart, but this may cause a scar. You could also use Wart-Off Freeze to treat this wart.
When to See a Health Professional
Parents may wish to consult a GP or pharmacist if a wart changes in appearance, if multiple warts appear, or if the wart becomes painful or does not improve over time. A health professional can help assess the wart and advise on suitable management options.
This information is general and not a substitute for medical advice.
Warts and Child Confidence
It’s natural for children to feel self-conscious about visible warts, particularly if they are on the hands, feet, or face.
While warts are common and usually harmless, parents can explore children’s wart treatment options by speaking with a health professional, especially if the wart is affecting their child’s confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are warts in children contagious?
Yes. Warts can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact or shared surfaces like showers or towels.
What are the most common types of warts in kids?
Children commonly experience warts on the hands (common warts) and feet (plantar warts). These are caused by a virus and are generally harmless.
What are the wart treatment options for kids?
There are a range of wart treatment options. Some may be suitable for children, but it's important to speak to a pharmacist or doctor for the right advice based on age and wart type.
How long do children's warts last?
Many warts go away on their own, though it can take months. If warts persist or cause discomfort, seek medical advice.
Can I use children's wart remover products at home?
Some over-the-counter wart removal products are suitable for children, but always read the label and consider consulting a health professional before use.
Are plantar warts in children painful?
Plantar warts may feel uncomfortable due to their location on the soles of the feet, especially when walking. They are usually harmless but may require attention if causing pain.