Warts are small, rough lumps that form on the skin and are very common. They’re usually harmless but can sometimes be itchy, uncomfortable or simply something you’d rather not have. While some warts go away on their own, they can be stubborn or bothersome, and that’s when treatment can help.

They often appear on the hands and feet. When they show up on the soles, they’re known as verrucas. Warts can be the same colour as your skin, or they might look slightly pink or darker. You might also notice tiny black dots inside them, which are just clotted blood vessels. There are different types, including common warts, verrucas on the feet, and flat warts that are smaller and tend to appear in groups.

Warts develop when a virus gets into the skin and causes it to grow more keratin, which is the tough protein that makes up the outer layer of our skin. This extra keratin builds up and creates the rough, raised texture that warts are known for.

The virus (HPV) that causes warts is contagious, which means it can spread from person to person through direct contact or by touching surfaces that have been in contact with a wart. This is why they’re often picked up in shared spaces like gyms, swimming pools or communal showers, especially if the skin is broken or damp.

Not everyone who comes into contact with the virus will get a wart. It often depends on things like your skin type, immune system and how often you’re exposed.