If you have a wart on your face, it is known as a filiform wart. These warts are a common wart, caused by exposure to a strain of human papillomavirus (HPV). The growths are benign and, typically, flesh colored. Unlike warts on the feet, hands, knees and other parts of the body, facial warts take special handling. It may not be something you want to try with an over-the-counter (OTC) topical remedy. If used improperly, you run the risk of damaging the skin surrounding the filiform wart.
Step 1
Make an appointment with a dermatologist. The wart on the face will be examined. The dermatologist will discuss various treatment options with you. She will warn you of any treatment side effects, like scarring and skin discoloration.
Step 2
Allow the doctor to remove the wart through cryotherapy. During this procedure, a small amount of liquid nitrogen will be applied to the affected area. The area will turn white; the wart is frozen off.
Step 3
Apply a topical solution to the wart. After cryotherapy, a doctor may prescribe a topical solution to help get rid of the wart. The solution may contain salicylic acid, trichloroacetic acid or 5-fluorouracil. Follow the doctor's instructions on how often to apply the topical ointment to the wart on the face.
Step 4
Keep the area covered. The doctor is likely to cover the wart with a type of bandage. It should stay clean and dry while it heals. Your doctor will have you return for a follow-up visit to monitor the wart. A repeat cryotherapy treatment may be required if the initial application was not successful.
Tips and Warnings
- You should inquire about surgical removal of the filiform wart during your initial consultation with the doctor. A wart can be removed by surgical excision. During surgical excision, the wart is cut off the face and the area bandaged with dressings.
