No Need to Worry About Scars When Removing Flat Warts on the Face

Because flat warts are a condition caused by a virus, trying to remove them on your own can damage the skin. However, many people end up visiting a dermatologist after rashly picking at them and then worrying about scars. When you notice something unusual, the way to protect your skin health is to identify the cause accurately and proceed with treatment according to your skin condition.

What are flat warts?

Flat warts are small, flat-raised warts on the skin surface, and they are usually skin-colored or light brown. They are generally small, about 1 to 5 mm in size, and their smooth surface and low shine can make them look like acne or blemishes. They often appear on exposed areas such as the face, neck, backs of the hands, and arms, and rather than appearing one by one, they often occur in clusters.

Why do warts appear on the face?

They are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus. The virus invades when very small cuts or gaps form in the skin and then multiplies, and they may develop more easily when the immune system is weakened. In particular, flat warts on the face can also be caused by frequently touching the face with your hands, the habit of resting your chin on your hand, or skin irritation from shaving or hair removal. If left untreated, the number may gradually increase or spread to surrounding areas, and if they become chronic, the color may darken or the skin surface may become rough.

Will removing flat warts leave no scars?

When removing flat warts on the face, the biggest concerns are scarring and recurrence. Because the virus may remain not only on the skin surface but also in the tissue underneath, simply removing the surface alone can leave the possibility of recurrence. Also, since the skin on the face is thin and sensitive, pigmentation or fine scars may appear after treatment. Therefore, when removing flat warts, it is important to choose a method suited to the skin condition and the area.

Methods commonly known for removing flat warts include laser treatment, cryotherapy, electrocautery, and topical medication. Laser treatment selectively removes the lesion, while cryotherapy freezes the tissue using liquid nitrogen to eliminate the wart. Electrocautery burns and removes the lesion with a small electric current, and topical medication is applied directly to the skin to gradually remove the lesion. The appropriate method depends on the size, number, location, and skin condition of the lesions, so it is best to decide after a medical consultation.

Aftercare is also important

After removing flat warts, aftercare is important. If a scab forms at the treatment site, do not force it off; let it fall off naturally. For at least 1 to 2 weeks, it is good to apply sunscreen carefully to help prevent pigmentation. For washing your face or applying makeup, use low-irritation products until the wound heals, and avoid excessive massage. Using a moisturizer that helps skin regeneration can also be beneficial.

To help prevent recurrence, lifestyle habits that maintain immune strength are necessary. Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress are basic, and it is also important to reduce the habit of frequently touching your face with your hands. Flat warts are an infectious skin disease, so even within families, it is better not to share personal hygiene items such as razors and towels.