The 6 Types of Warts (And How to Identify Them)
- Common Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)
What they look like: Rough, grainy bumps with a cauliflower-like surface. They’re typically grayish, brownish, or flesh-colored. They often have tiny black dots on the surface—these are actually clotted blood vessels.
Where they appear: Most commonly on fingers, hands, and around nails. They can also appear on knees and other areas that are frequently scraped or exposed.
Who gets them: Anyone can get them, but they’re more common in children and young adults.
Symptoms: Usually painless, but they can be tender if they’re in a spot that gets bumped or rubbed.
Treatment: Over-the-counter salicylic acid treatments, freezing kits, or doctor-administered treatments like cryotherapy or laser removal.
Home remedies: Covering with duct tape has some anecdotal support. Apple cider vinegar compresses are also popular, though evidence is mixed.
When to see a doctor: If they’re painful, growing, spreading, or resistant to home treatment.
