medical condition:

Warts

Understanding Warts: Types and Characteristics

At Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in warts. They provide effective, professional care. This skin disease is a common condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). It can affect anyone. To manage this problem and prevent its return, you must understand it. You need to know how it forms and how to treat it.

They differ in appearance and location. But they all have the same cause—HPV infection. This skin condition comes in various forms, each caused by different strains of HPV. These are some of the most common types:

  • Common warts typically manifest on hands and fingers as rough, raised bumps.
  • Plantar warts: Found on the soles of the feet, they may feel like stepping on a pebble due to their inward growth.
  • Flat warts: These tend to be smaller and smoother, commonly found on the face, neck, or legs.

The Science Behind Wart Formation: What You Need to Know

BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

The disease develops when certain HPV strains enter the skin, usually through small cuts. Once the virus penetrates, it triggers rapid cell growth in the outer skin. This leads to the formation of the wart. Warts are non-cancerous. However, they can be uncomfortable and hideous. They are contagious. The virus can survive on surfaces, like towels and floors. They can spread through direct contact or shared objects.

Myths and Misconceptions About Warts Debunked

The disease is often misunderstood, leading to various myths:

  • Myth 1: Touching frogs or toads causes warts. This common myth has no basis. HPV causes the affliction, not amphibians.
  • Myth 2: Warts are always permanent. While they can be persistent, these issues are treatable and often disappear with proper care.
  • Myth 3: Only children get warts. They are more common in children due to their weak immune systems. But, they can affect anyone at any age.

Natural Remedies for Wart Removal: Do They Work?

Many people turn to natural remedies to treat maladies, but do they work? Some options, like applying duct tape or using apple cider vinegar, have mixed results. These methods may work in minor cases. But they often fail to provide long-term solutions. For stubborn warts, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist. At Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics, we use safe, effective, science-backed treatments.

Medical Treatments for Warts: From Cryotherapy to Laser Therapy

Medical intervention offers more reliable and lasting results for their removal. These methods work well on warts that are resistant to over-the-counter and natural treatments. The treatments offered at Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics include:

  • Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen, which destroys the tissue over time.
  • Laser therapy: It uses focused light to remove the wart by destroying its blood vessels.
  • Topical treatments: Prescription-strength solutions that remove warts by peeling the affected skin.

Preventing Warts: Tips for Healthy Skin and Hygiene

Maintain proper hygiene. Staying mindful of these practices can help reduce your risk of developing this skin disorder. Avoid contact with the virus. Here are some tips:

  • Keep skin clean and moisturized to maintain its barrier function.
  • Avoid sharing personal items like towels, razors, or shoes, especially in communal areas.
  • Use protective footwear when in public showers, pools, or locker rooms. It will reduce exposure to HPV.
  • Treat cuts and abrasions immediately to minimize the risk of the virus entering the skin.

Living with Warts: Emotional and Social Considerations

For many, it is more than just a skin issue—it can also affect emotional and social well-being. Warts, especially on the hands, face, or feet, may cause anxiety in social situations. Some people may avoid certain activities or hide affected areas to cope with the stress. At Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics, we know skin issues like this can be personal. We are here to provide compassionate, physical, and emotional care.

Customer Love: Our Reviews Speak for Themselves

Helen P.
Google review
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I had a great experience at Ayana Dermatology! Dr. Levi is a fantastic physician. She was very kind to me and thorough in her exam. You can clearly see she has a passion for her career and patients. Her clinic is beautiful and clean. Staff was kind and welcoming. I am happy to have found my dermatologist!
Nicole A.
YELP REVIEW
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My experience at Ayana has been nothing short of amazing! I came to Dr. Levi for hair loss, and she took the time to really listen to me and discussed all treatment options with me in detail. Not only do I feel cared for by everyone at the office, but I have also seen significant improvement in my hair growth using Dr. Levi's medical advice and treatment approach. Go to Ayana if you want results and the best care in South FL!
Allan h.
facebook review
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Dr. Levi and staff were true professionals. Great results and competitive rates. What I thought would take months for my skin to heal was almost gone in only 1 week. Will definitely come back!
Amanda P.
Google review
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So blessed to have a AYANA DERMATOLOGY in Wilton Manors!! Good bye med spas - overpriced and lack quality control. Dr. Cherise Mizrahi-Levi Is generous with her knowledge and time. I love learning about how to care for my skin without the med spa gimmicks.
Bernard R.
yelp review
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I am from Miami Beach and now live in Orlando. I am frequently in Fort Lauderdale because that is where my kids live. I have been to many dermatologists over the years. Dr. Levi is by far the best dermatologist I have ever seen. Her attention to detail is incredible. She is highly intelligent and is great at communicating what is going on. I can't put into words how great of a doctor she is. highly recommend her!
Theresa S.
Google review
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Amazing service from first call to end of appointments. Been here several times for different things and they are consistently professional and friendly!
Therese N.
Facebook Review
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Dr. Levi and her staff were attentive and tried to help with my concerns. Will be seeing her again in about three weeks for a followup.
Kirsten b.
yelp review
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Dr. Levi is amazing. She takes the time to understand your problem and then works with you to improve your condition. You don't feel rushed and you are definitely listened to. Her follow up is fantastic, taking time to call you personally with lab results.
Talia N.
Facebook review
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The best derm experience I’ve ever had, truly. I felt well taken care of by the entire team. Dr. Levi is warm, caring, and incredibly knowledgeable regarding all aspects of dermatology. She took her time to explain everything from A-Z so I didn’t leave with any worries or concerns. I highly recommend this practice! Experienced skin care professionals, Amazing results, Expert facials, Licensed skin care professionals, Professional products, Beautiful results.
Mirit g.
Yelp review
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Thank you for the knowledge, explanation and special treatment Dr. Cherise M. Levi you're the best! Beautiful place, so peaceful & great team! Definitely going to see you soon again 🙂
Elizabeth K.
Facebook review
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Wonderful, caring doctor. Takes her time with patients. Never rushes. Listens to patient & makes informed recommendations. Great support staff. Makes good recommendations for skin care products. Will continue to go to Ayana Dermatology for skin cancer checks.
Ivan D.
yelp review
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Beautiful office great staff very professional the doctor comes with a magnificent history in the industry in NYC she makes you feel very comfortable and i have total confidence in her decisions and advice so glad i found her!
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Frequently asked questions

Certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) cause this affliction. The virus enters the skin through small cuts and abrasions. It causes rapid skin cell growth and warts.

No method can guarantee that warts won’t return. But treatments like cryotherapy, laser therapy, and prescription creams can remove this problem. It’s important to address the root cause to reduce recurrence.

They may persist anywhere from a few months to several years. It depends on the person’s immune response and the wart type. Proper treatment can speed up the healing process.

Yes, they can spread through direct skin contact. They can also spread by touching surfaces that have the virus, like towels, razors, or floors. Not everyone exposed to the virus will develop warts, as immune responses vary.

Yes, warts can sometimes return even after treatment. This is because the virus may still be present in the skin. However, professional treatment significantly reduces the risk of recurrence.

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