Warts Removal in Petaluma & Hercules

Understanding Warts

Warts are small, noncancerous skin growths caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the hands, feet, face, and sometimes the genitalia. While generally harmless, warts can be painful, contagious, and cosmetically bothersome. At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in effective wart removal and treatment.

Causes & Risk Factors

Warts are caused by direct infection of the skin with the HPV virus that enters the skin through tiny abrasions or cuts in the skin. Although anyone can develop warts, some people are more susceptible:

Children and teenagers: More common due to their developing immune systems.
People with weakened immunity: From illness, medications, or medical conditions.
Walking barefoot in public spaces: There is a higher risk of contracting plantar warts (and athlete’s foot) on gym floors, locker rooms, and pool decks.
Nail biters or cuticle pickers: Greater chance of warts developing around the nails, as the torn skin allows the wart virus to enter.
Skin-to-skin contact: Warts can spread through touching or sharing personal items.

Types of Warts

There are over 200 different strains of HPV, with each strain having a unique propensity to infect different locations on the skin, leading to the various types of warts.

Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris): Raised bumps usually found on the hands, fingers, and knees.
Plantar Warts: Appear on the bottom or soles of the feet and are often painful when walking due to inward growth.
Flat (Planar) Warts: Smooth, flat-topped lesions, typically found on the face, arms, or legs in little clusters.
Filiform Warts: Long, narrow growths on the face, eyelids, or lips.
Periungual Warts: Grow around or under fingernails and toenails, potentially painful and more challenging to treat.
Genital Warts: Caused by certain HPV strains. Some strains may lead to cervical cancer, so proper treatment to prevent spread is essential. The Gardasil HPV vaccine has been highly effective in reducing the community spread of HPV.

Because some warts can resemble other skin conditions, including precancerous lesions, it’s important to seek evaluation from a board-certified dermatologist to ensure an accurate diagnosis and the safest, most efficacious treatment.

Advanced Wart Treatment Options We Offer In Our Petaluma and Hercules Clinics

At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, we provide advanced wart treatments that go beyond drugstore remedies. Our goal is to remove warts effectively while minimizing the chance of recurrence.

Prescription Medications

Cantharadin, Podophyllum, Salicylic Acid, Cidofovir gel, Imiquimod cream, and 5-Fluorouracil cream are topical prescriptions that patients may apply themselves at home to complement in-office treatments.
Oral Medications: In some cases, oral cimetidine, isotretinoin, and zinc sulphate may be helpful for resistant warts.

In-Office Treatments

Cryotherapy (Liquid Nitrogen Freezing): The most common method. Freezes and destroys wart tissue in seconds. The liquid nitrogen forms ice crystals in the HPV cells, damaging the virus cell wall. Several sessions may be needed.
Swift Microwave Therapy: A quick, non-invasive treatment that uses microwave energy to stimulate your immune system to clear HPV. No anesthesia or downtime needed.
Laser Therapy: Targets the wart’s blood supply, leading to destruction of the lesion.

Chemical Peels (Salicylic Acid, Trichloroacetic Acid): Stronger than over-the-counter treatments, applied in-office for stubborn warts.
Cantharidin (“Blister Beetle” Treatment): A safe blistering agent used in children and adults, painless during application.

Our comprehensive wart treatment approach targets existing warts while helping restore clear, smooth, and healthy-looking skin.

Dermatology Associates of the bay area doctors, pa, aesthetician, and staff. Group image outside.

Why Choose Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area?

Our team of board-certified dermatologists is dedicated to providing expert skin care for patients of all ages. At Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area, we combine advanced dermatology techniques with personalized care to help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin.

Choose a trusted dermatology practice committed to exceptional care and long-term skin health.

What sets us apart:

Board-Certified Dermatologists – Our dermatologists have completed rigorous training and certification to deliver the highest level of dermatologic care. Our medical colleagues recognize our expertise, and as such, we have been recipients of Castle Connolly Top Doctors – including most recently in January 2025
Comprehensive Skin Care – From medical dermatology and acne treatment to advanced acne scar solutions and cosmetic procedures, we offer a full range of services under one roof.
Patient-Focused Approach – Every treatment plan is customized to fit your unique skin type, concerns, and goals.
Advanced Technology – We use clinically proven treatments and devices for effective, safe results.

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Wart Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Are warts contagious?

Yes. Warts spread through direct skin contact or shared objects like towels and razors. Avoid scratching or picking to prevent the spread.

Do warts go away on their own?

Some warts may resolve naturally in months to years, but many persist or spread. Professional treatment speeds resolution and prevents complications.

Can warts come back after treatment?

Yes. Because the HPV virus can sometimes lie dormant in the skin, warts can recur.

When should I see a dermatologist for a wart?

If a wart is painful, spreading, persistent despite home treatment, or located on the face or genitals, dermatological care is strongly recommended.

What is Swift Microwave Therapy?

Swift Microwave Therapy is an advanced treatment for stubborn warts available at Dermatology Associates of the Bay Area. It works by delivering controlled microwave energy through a specialized handpiece, gently heating the infected tissue to trigger the body’s immune response and clear the HPV virus. Unlike freezing, acids, or surgical removal, Swift doesn’t damage the skin’s surface—resulting in minimal discomfort, no anesthesia, and no downtime. Sessions are quick, typically just a few minutes, and most patients notice lasting results after only a few treatments. Swift is especially effective for plantar warts but can also treat warts on other parts of the body.