By Jun-su Kim / Article Approved: 2023-11-16 15:00:00
[Medical Today = Reporter Jun-su Kim] Warts are growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), appearing as bumps on the skin or mucous membranes. Among them, flat warts are characterized by flat, acne-like papules that are highly contagious and can spread to other parts of the body.
Flat warts can affect individuals from their teens to their 70s, commonly appearing on the forehead, chin, nose, around the mouth, and the back of the hands. Since warts are caused by a viral infection during weakened immune states, they are more likely to develop or recur in winter when immunity tends to decline due to large temperature fluctuations.
Flat warts often blend in with the skin tone, making them difficult to detect early. They can be mistaken for other skin conditions, delaying treatment and allowing them to spread across the face or body. This not only complicates treatment but also increases the risk of transmitting the infection to others. Therefore, it is crucial to visit a dermatologist promptly if flat warts are suspected.
Treatment options for flat warts vary depending on their size, location, and the patient’s immune state. Treatments may include immunotherapy, cryotherapy, or laser therapy. Er:YAG lasers, for instance, remove warts by shaving them off rather than burning them, minimizing thermal damage to surrounding tissues. This method reduces scarring and is known for low pain, minimal redness, and a very low recurrence rate.
Dr. Jeong-hyun Kim, Director of Beauty Ocean Clinic Hanam Gamill Branch, advises, “Since flat warts are highly contagious, meticulous treatment that addresses even the smallest lesions is essential. In cases with multiple small lesions, complete treatment may require multiple sessions. Consulting experienced and skilled dermatologists can help reduce recurrence risks and ensure thorough aftercare. After the procedure, it is recommended to apply sunscreen when outdoors and avoid saunas, steam baths, and exfoliation for about a week.”
By Jun-su Kim / Article Approved: 2023-11-16 15:00:00
[Medical Today = Reporter Jun-su Kim] Warts are growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), appearing as bumps on the skin or mucous membranes. Among them, flat warts are characterized by flat, acne-like papules that are highly contagious and can spread to other parts of the body.
Flat warts can affect individuals from their teens to their 70s, commonly appearing on the forehead, chin, nose, around the mouth, and the back of the hands. Since warts are caused by a viral infection during weakened immune states, they are more likely to develop or recur in winter when immunity tends to decline due to large temperature fluctuations.
Flat warts often blend in with the skin tone, making them difficult to detect early. They can be mistaken for other skin conditions, delaying treatment and allowing them to spread across the face or body. This not only complicates treatment but also increases the risk of transmitting the infection to others. Therefore, it is crucial to visit a dermatologist promptly if flat warts are suspected.
Treatment options for flat warts vary depending on their size, location, and the patient’s immune state. Treatments may include immunotherapy, cryotherapy, or laser therapy. Er:YAG lasers, for instance, remove warts by shaving them off rather than burning them, minimizing thermal damage to surrounding tissues. This method reduces scarring and is known for low pain, minimal redness, and a very low recurrence rate.
Dr. Jeong-hyun Kim, Director of Beauty Ocean Clinic Hanam Gamill Branch, advises, “Since flat warts are highly contagious, meticulous treatment that addresses even the smallest lesions is essential. In cases with multiple small lesions, complete treatment may require multiple sessions. Consulting experienced and skilled dermatologists can help reduce recurrence risks and ensure thorough aftercare. After the procedure, it is recommended to apply sunscreen when outdoors and avoid saunas, steam baths, and exfoliation for about a week.”