How to Rid the Face of Warts

Warts that appear on the face are also known as flat warts, which occur as a result of the HPV, or human papillomavirus. Flat warts are not painful and are smaller and flatter than standard warts. They appear in clusters, especially on the forehead and cheeks. Flat warts usually appear in children between the ages of 12 and 16.

Things You'll Need

• Salicylic acid facial cleanser
• Over-the-counter exfoliant
• Kosher salt
• Topical prescription medication

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your face twice daily with a facial cleanser that contains salicylic acid. You can purchase a salicylic acid facial cleanser over the counter at your local drugstore or grocery store.

• 2

  Exfoliate your face three times a week. You can purchase an oil-free exfoliant at your local drugstore, or make your own at home by mixing two parts kosher salt with one part water. Rub the exfoliant into your face gently with your fingertips for several minutes, then rinse off and cleanse with a face wash containing salicylic acid.

• 3

  Consult a dermatologist. If your flat warts remain after using salicylic acid and exfoliating for several weeks, your doctor can prescribe topical creams like podophyllin, cantharidin or tretinoin. Your doctor may also prescribe a stronger dose of salicylic acid.

• 4

  Have the warts frozen with a liquid nitrogen solution. Your doctor can administer the solution directly to the warts. You should see results within several days.

• 5

  Get laser wart removal surgery. Although wart removal surgery is expensive, for particularly unsightly or stubborn warts it may be the only solution to get rid of warts in a timely manner. Your dermatologist can cut off the blood supply to flat warts with a laser, which will create scabbing on your skin. This scabbing will heal within several weeks.

• 6

  Wait it out. Flat warts usually only appear in childhood and do not last longer than two years. If you have already had flat warts for a year or more, it may be worth it to wait a few more months for the warts to disappear on their own.