Warts & Molluscum Removal in Pensacola, FL

Warts are a common skin condition that can affect people of all ages. Although they are usually harmless, they can be uncomfortable, unsightly, and sometimes painful — especially if they develop on the hands, feet, or face. At Pensacola Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists provide safe and effective wart removal options tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn warts or recurring lesions, our team is here to help you restore clear, healthy skin.

What Are Warts?

Warts are noncancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus triggers extra cell growth in the top layer of skin, creating a rough, raised bump.

Warts can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the hands, feet, face, and genitals. While many warts go away on their own over time, others persist or spread, requiring professional treatment.

Types of Warts

• Common warts — Rough, raised bumps often found on the hands, fingers, or around nails.
• Plantar warts — Grow on the soles of the feet; may be painful when walking. Often appear flat due to pressure.
• Flat warts — Small, smooth growths that usually occur in clusters on the face, arms, or legs.
• Filiform warts — Long, narrow projections that typically develop on the face, around the mouth, nose, or eyes.
• Genital warts — Sexually transmitted and require specialized care.

What Is Molluscum?

Molluscum contagiosum is another viral skin condition often confused with warts. It is caused by a poxvirus and appears as small, flesh-colored or pink bumps with a central dimple.

Unlike warts, molluscum lesions are typically smooth and shiny. They can occur anywhere on the body and often spread through skin-to-skin contact, particularly in children or sexually active adults. While molluscum may resolve on its own, it can last for months to years without treatment, making dermatologic care important for faster clearance.

How Do Warts & Molluscum Spread?

Both warts and molluscum are contagious and can spread through:

• Direct skin contact — Touching a wart or molluscum lesion.
• Shared objects — Such as towels, razors, or sports equipment.
• Scratching or picking — Which spreads the virus to nearby skin.
• Warm, moist environments — Public showers, locker rooms, and pool areas are common sources of infection.

Children, athletes, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible. Practicing good hygiene and seeking early treatment helps limit the spread.

Treatment Options

At Pensacola Dermatology, our dermatologists offer a variety of effective wart and molluscum removal options. The best treatment depends on the type, location, and persistence of the lesions.

Common treatments include:

• Cryotherapy — Freezing the wart or molluscum lesion with liquid nitrogen.
• Topical medications — Prescription creams or solutions that gradually remove warts.
• Electrosurgery and curettage — Burning and scraping away lesions for immediate removal.
• Laser therapy — Uses focused light to destroy wart tissue.
• Cantharidin therapy — A blistering agent applied in-office to lift off the lesion.
• Immune-based treatments — Stimulating the immune system to fight off the virus in resistant cases.

Some warts require multiple treatment sessions, while others may respond quickly. Your dermatologist will recommend the safest, most effective approach for your skin.

When to See a Dermatologist

While many warts are harmless, you should schedule an appointment if:

• A wart is painful, bleeding, or spreading.
• Warts appear on the face or genital area.
• Over-the-counter treatments are ineffective.
• You have diabetes, circulation problems, or a weakened immune system.
• You suspect molluscum and want faster clearance.

Early treatment not only helps remove warts and molluscum but also prevents them from spreading to others.

Wart & Molluscum Treatment in Pensacola

You don’t have to live with uncomfortable or stubborn skin growths. At Pensacola Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists provide expert care for warts and molluscum, offering safe, effective treatments tailored to your needs. Request your appointment today and take the first step toward clear, healthy skin — right here in Pensacola, FL.