Warts in babies: causes, symptoms, and treatments

Baby warts are a common skin condition that also affects young children. These small benign growths can cause worry for parents, but it is important to note that they are often painless and disappear on their own over time. In this article, we will cover the causes, symptoms, the different types of warts found in babies, and the possible treatments to relieve the little ones.

What is a wart?

A wart is a small non-cancerous skin growth caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are different types of warts, each with a specific appearance and location on the body. Common warts in babies are generally found on the hands or feet, whilst plantar warts appear on the soles of the feet.

Causes of warts in babies

HPV is the culprit responsible for warts. It enters the skin through small abrasions or cuts, then causes the formation of a bump after a few weeks. HPV is highly contagious and can be transmitted from person to person through direct or indirect contact (for example, by touching a contaminated object such as a towel).

Children appear to be more susceptible to warts, as their immune system is still developing. Babies who suffer from eczema and whose skin is often dry and irritated may be at greater risk of contracting HPV.

Symptoms of warts in babies

Most of the time, warts are painless and do not cause any particular symptoms. However, they can sometimes cause mild pain or discomfort, especially when located on areas exposed to friction such as the hands or feet.

A typical wart is a small rounded growth with a rough, irregular surface. Depending on the type of wart, it can vary in colour (white, grey, skin-toned) and size (from a few millimetres to a centimetre).

Different types of warts in babies

Common warts: small rough growths.

Flat warts: smoother and flatter patches than other types.

Plantar warts: located on the soles of the feet, these warts can cause a deformation or the sensation of walking on a small pebble.

Filiform warts: elongated stem-like growths, usually located around the face and neck.

Treatment of warts in babies

Warts generally tend to disappear on their own as the child's immune system strengthens. However, this can take several months or even years depending on the case.

Even if it is not always necessary, there are home treatments and medical options that can be used to speed up their disappearance:

Home treatment of warts in babies

Duct tape: a popular home remedy involves covering the wart with duct tape for 6 days. Then remove it, soak the affected area in warm water to soften the skin and make it easier to remove the dead tissue. Repeat this procedure until the wart disappears.

Apple cider vinegar: apply a piece of cotton wool soaked in apple cider vinegar to the wart, secured with an adhesive plaster, overnight.

Garlic: crush a clove of garlic and apply it directly to the wart, then cover with a plaster or bandage. Leave on for several hours before rinsing with lukewarm water. This method should be repeated daily.

Before using these home treatments, it is recommended to consult a paediatrician to ensure they are suitable for your baby.

Medical treatments for warts in babies

If warts persist despite home treatments, or if they are particularly painful or bothersome, a visit to the doctor may be necessary. There are several medical options for removing warts:

Antiviral solutions and creams: these treatments can be applied directly to the wart to destroy the HPV virus. They are generally recommended for more recent warts.

Cryotherapy: this method involves the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the viral cells of the wart. Several sessions are often required for the warts to disappear completely.

Surgical excision: in cases where the wart causes significant pain or deformation of the foot, it may be removed by a doctor under local anaesthetic.

To prevent new warts from appearing, it is essential to follow a few tips to protect your baby's skin:

Avoid scratching or touching the warts so as not to spread the virus.

Ensure your baby washes their hands regularly with soap and water.

When visiting a swimming pool, remember to use sandals to protect your baby's feet from wet surfaces.