Warts are one of the most common—and frustrating—skin conditions we treat. These small, rough growths are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear anywhere on the body, most often on the hands, feet, knees, or face. While many warts resolve on their own, they can be persistent, painful, or cosmetically bothersome—making medical treatment worthwhile.

HPV infects the top layer of the skin, often entering through small cuts or scrapes. Because the virus hides within the skin cells, it can evade the immune system—allowing warts to recur or resist standard over-the-counter remedies.

The key to successful treatment is combining direct destruction of the wart tissue with immune-modulating therapy that helps the body clear the virus. Patients who have received the HPV vaccine often ask me how they still get warts.

Unfortunately, there are many subtypes of HPV and the ones that cause common warts were not included in the vaccine.