Condition

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin condition that causes small, flesh-colored or pink bumps on the skin. It is most frequently seen in children, though adults can also develop the condition through skin-to-skin contact or shared items such as towels, clothing, or athletic equipment. The bumps are usually painless but can become irritated, inflamed, or itchy over time.

The condition is caused by a poxvirus and is generally considered benign, but it can spread easily across different areas of the body or to other people through scratching and direct contact. In some cases, the bumps resolve on their own over time, though this process can take months or even years depending on the individual and extent of the outbreak.

In clinic, molluscum contagiosum is something we commonly evaluate and treat, especially within pediatric dermatology. Many parents choose treatment because lesions can spread quickly, become bothersome, or affect confidence when visible on exposed areas of the skin.

At wellwell, we provide personalized treatment recommendations based on the severity, location, and persistence of the condition.

Close-up of skin with small raised white and red bumps, some with tiny scabs or irritation.
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Cantharidin Treatment (“Beetle Juice”)

Cantharidin is applied directly to molluscum bumps every 3–4 weeks to help trigger the body’s immune response and clear lesions over time. Mild blistering is expected and often means the treatment is working.

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Topical KOH (Potassium Hydroxide)

A topical solution used to gradually break down molluscum lesions over time. Treatment is usually started slowly on a small number of bumps to reduce irritation.

Curettage

Curettage physically removes molluscum bumps and may provide faster clearance for some patients. Many patients improve after one or two treatments.

Oral Cimetidine & Combination Therapy

Oral cimetidine may be recommended alongside other treatments, especially for facial molluscum or more persistent cases.

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Customized At-Home Treatments

We offer compounded medications and tretinoin-based treatments that can be used at home to support clearing. As the immune system starts responding, bumps may become red or inflamed, which is often a sign the body is clearing the virus.

Oral Cimetidine & Combination Therapy

Oral cimetidine may be recommended alongside other treatments, especially for facial molluscum or more persistent cases.

Gold line art of two leaves, dots, and stars forming a circular nature symbol.

Customized At-Home Treatments

We offer compounded medications and tretinoin-based treatments that can be used at home to support clearing. As the immune system starts responding, bumps may become red or inflamed, which is often a sign the body is clearing the virus.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is molluscum contagious?

Yes. Molluscum can spread through skin-to-skin contact, shared towels, clothing, or scratching the lesions.

Will molluscum leave scars?

Molluscum itself usually does not scar, but picking, scratching, or aggressive irritation of the bumps can increase the risk of marks or discoloration.

Can molluscum itch or become irritated?

Yes. Molluscum bumps can sometimes become itchy, inflamed, or tender, especially as the immune system begins reacting to the virus.

Should molluscum bumps be covered?

Covering the bumps can help reduce spreading, especially during sports, swimming, or close skin contact with others.

Does molluscum go away on its own?

In many cases, yes, but it can take months or even years to fully clear without treatment.

Why do the bumps become red or inflamed?

As the immune system starts fighting the virus, bumps may become red, irritated, or inflamed. This is often a normal sign that the body is clearing the infection.

When should molluscum be treated?

Treatment may be recommended if lesions are spreading, irritated, cosmetically bothersome, or causing discomfort.

Can adults get molluscum?

Yes, adults can contract the virus, especially if immunocompromised.