This image displays multiple skin-colored, barely raised lesions typical of flat warts. This image displays a severe case of flat warts on the hands, including dozens of white-appearing lesions. Flat warts are common on the face, arms, and legs and can be spread by scratching and shaving. This image displays flat warts in a beard area, which are typically spread by shaving. This image displays flat warts on the face, which can be skin-colored to slightly pink. Flat warts can appear pink or slightly red, as displayed in this image. Flat warts can appear pink and sometimes broad in shape, as displayed in this image. This image displays typical, multiple flat warts. This image displays dozens to hundreds of flat warts.
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Flat Wart:
Information for adults

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Picture of Flat Wart: This image displays multiple skin-colored, barely raised lesions typical of flat warts. Divider line
This image displays multiple skin-colored, barely raised lesions typical of flat warts.
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Self-Care Guidelines
Because warts can resolve on their own, it is not necessary to treat all warts. Additionally, treating warts may not always destroy them, nor will it necessarily keep other warts from appearing. Treatment can be painful and cause scars and might need to be repeated, so it should only be done in cases where the warts are highly bothersome or interfere with daily life.
  • Over-the-counter wart removers have a high percentage of salicylic acid and work by dissolving away the layer of skin infected with the virus. This needs to be used daily and can sometimes be irritating if it touches unaffected skin around it.
  • Duct tape applied daily to the affected area seems to work for unknown reasons. The tape should be very sticky and kept on for a few days.
  • Over-the-counter freezing medications are available but have not been found to be very effective.
  • Coupled with the above therapies, the wart should be soaked in warm water, and any loose skin should be removed every few days with a mild abrasive, like a pumice stone.
  • Family members should avoid sharing personal items such as towels.
When to Seek Medical Care
Make an appointment with a dermatologist or another physician if you have:
  • Painful or bleeding warts
  • Warts on the face
  • Rapidly spreading or multiplying warts
  • Warts that interfere with daily life and are not responsive to self-care
Last Modified: 3 Mar 2008

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