What Causes Warts?

Warts are small, benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop on the skin due to a viral infection. Specifically, they are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a group of viruses with many different strains that affect the skin in different ways.

When HPV enters the skin usually through tiny cuts, abrasions, or weakened areas it infects the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). This triggers rapid skin cell growth, which leads to the formation of a wart. These growths can vary in appearance depending on the type of HPV involved.

Common types of warts include:
• Common warts: Rough, raised bumps often found on the hands
• Plantar warts: Thick, hardened growths on the soles of the feet
• Flat warts: Smooth, smaller lesions often seen on the face or legs

Warts may appear individually or in clusters and can range from flesh-colored to slightly darker shades.

A widespread myth is that warts are caused by poor hygiene. In reality, warts are caused by a viral infection—not dirt or lack of cleanliness. Even individuals who maintain excellent hygiene can develop warts if they come into contact with HPV.

That said, hygiene still plays an important role in preventing the spread of the virus. HPV can spread through:
• Direct skin-to-skin contact
• Touching contaminated surfaces such as towels, gym floors, or shared tools
• Picking or scratching an existing wart, which can spread it to other areas

Practicing good hygiene—such as washing hands regularly and avoiding sharing personal items can help reduce your risk of exposure, but it does not guarantee complete protection.

Yes, damaged or broken skin significantly increases your risk of developing warts. HPV needs a point of entry, and even microscopic cuts or abrasions can allow the virus to penetrate the skin.

Common situations that increase risk include:
• Shaving or causing small nicks in the skin
• Nail biting or picking at cuticles
• Dry, cracked skin
• Walking barefoot in public places like pools or locker rooms

When the skin barrier is compromised, it becomes easier for the virus to infect the area and trigger wart formation. This is why protecting your skin and keeping it healthy is an important part of prevention.

Warts tend to develop in areas that are frequently exposed to friction, moisture, or minor injuries. Certain parts of the body are more vulnerable due to daily activities and environmental exposure.

Hands and fingers:
Hands come into frequent contact with surfaces and are prone to small cuts, making them a common site for warts.

Feet (plantar warts):
Walking barefoot in shared environments increases exposure to HPV. Pressure from walking can also cause plantar warts to grow inward, making them more painful.

Face and neck:
Flat warts often appear in these areas, especially where the skin is irritated by shaving or minor trauma.

Different strains of HPV are more likely to affect certain areas of the body, which explains why warts show up in predictable locations.

At Midwest Dermatology Centre, wart treatment is focused on both removing the visible wart and addressing the underlying viral cause. Dr. Melinda Woofter and the team take a comprehensive approach to ensure patients receive safe, effective, and personalized care.

Accurate Diagnosis
Not all skin growths are warts. A proper evaluation ensures the correct diagnosis and helps determine the most effective treatment plan

Advanced Treatment Options
Depending on the type and location of the wart, treatments may include:

• Cryotherapy (freezing the wart)
• Prescription-strength topical medications
• In-office procedures for stubborn or recurring warts

These treatments are often more effective than over-the-counter options, especially for persistent or sensitive cases.

Prevention Guidance
Patients are also educated on how to prevent recurrence, including:

• Avoiding direct contact with warts
• Keeping skin healthy and protected
• Not sharing personal items
• Strengthening immune health

With guidance from Dr. Melinda Woofter, patients can better understand how to minimize future outbreaks and maintain healthier skin.

Additional Factors That Contribute to Wart Development
While HPV is the primary cause, several factors can increase your likelihood of developing warts:

• Weakened immune system: Makes it harder for the body to fight off the virus
• Age: Children and teenagers are more commonly affected
• Frequent exposure to shared environments: Gyms, pools, and locker rooms
• Skin conditions: Conditions like eczema can weaken the skin barrier

These factors don’t directly cause warts but make it easier for the virus to take hold.

Although some warts may go away on their own, professional care is recommended if:

• The wart is painful or bleeding
• It spreads quickly or appears in clusters
• It is located on the face or sensitive areas
• Over-the-counter treatments are not effective
• You are unsure whether the growth is a wart

Early treatment can prevent spreading and reduce discomfort.

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), not poor hygiene, and they develop when the virus enters the skin through small breaks. While they are common and typically harmless, they can persist and spread if not treated properly.

With expert care from Midwest Dermatology Centre and the experience of Dr. Melinda Woofter, you can receive accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and practical prevention strategies. If you’re dealing with stubborn or recurring warts, seeking professional dermatology care can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin with confidence. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1959 Newark-Granville Road Granville OH 43023. We serve patients from Granville OH, Park Ridge OH, Welsh Hills OH, Newark OH, Alexandria OH, Pataskala OH and surrounding areas.