Warts and molluscum are common viral skin growths that can spread, but safe, effective treatment can remove existing lesions and help prevent them from spreading.
Warts and molluscum contagiosum are common viral skin conditions that can affect children and adults. While they are generally harmless, they can spread, become irritated, or cause cosmetic concerns. Warts often appear on the hands, feet, or around the nails, while molluscum contagiosum typically causes small, smooth, dome-shaped bumps, especially in children. Although both conditions may eventually resolve on their own, treatment is often recommended to help prevent spreading, relieve discomfort, and restore healthier, clearer skin.
Treatment can help remove existing lesions, reduce discomfort, improve appearance, and help prevent the spread of warts or molluscum to other areas of the skin or to others. Temporary redness, blistering, and mild irritation may occur following treatment.
Recovery depends on the treatment performed, with most children healing within a few days to a few weeks. While treated lesions typically resolve, new lesions can occasionally develop and may require additional treatment.
Contact our office if the lesions continue to spread, become painful, show signs of infection, do not improve with treatment, or if you have any concerns about your child’s skin.
have a question?
Yes. Both are caused by viruses that can spread through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing personal items such as towels. Treatment can help reduce the risk of spreading to other areas of the skin or to others.
Even after successful treatment, new lesions can develop because the virus may still be present. Some children may require additional treatments or follow-up visits.
Some over-the-counter wart treatments may be effective for certain warts, but molluscum often requires professional treatment. Your dermatologist can recommend the safest and most effective option for your child.
We recommend scheduling an evaluation if the lesions are spreading, becoming painful or irritated, showing signs of infection, or causing cosmetic concerns. Our team will determine the most appropriate treatment based on your child’s individual needs.
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