Plantar Wart
What Is Plantar Wart?
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the soles of the feet, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They often appear as rough, grainy patches of skin with a hard, thickened surface and may have tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels. Plantar warts can be painful, especially when located on weight-bearing areas like the heels or balls of the feet. The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or cracks, and while not highly contagious, it can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces like locker room floors. Treatment options range from over-the-counter remedies to medical procedures like cryotherapy, depending on the severity and persistence of the wart.
What Causes Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are caused by HPV entering the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments—like public showers, pools, or gym floors—making bare feet especially vulnerable.
Symptoms include:
Small, rough skin lesions with a well-defined border
Pain when walking or applying pressure
A hard, thickened surface (may resemble a callus)
Tiny black dots (clotted capillaries) on the lesion
Clusters (mosaic warts) in severe or long-standing cases
Treatment Options at KL Foot Specialist
At our clinic, we use proven, non-invasive treatments that are tailored to your skin type, wart severity, and pain tolerance:
Salicylic Acid Treatment
A first-line, painless topical therapy that gradually softens the wart and surrounding skin.
Keratolytic (peels away infected skin)
Suitable for mild to moderate warts
Requires regular in-clinic or at-home application under podiatrist guidance
Often used alongside debridement to improve effectiveness
Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) Application
A strong topical solution that breaks down infected skin cells and helps activate your immune system.
Ideal for patients looking for a faster-acting alternative to salicylic acid
Well-suited for children and adults with smaller lesions
Can be applied in clinic and monitored closely for results
Each treatment is carefully selected and administered based on your medical history, skin sensitivity, and treatment goals.
Is Wart Treatment Painful?
Most topical treatments cause minimal discomfort, though mild stinging or irritation is possible. Some procedure are performed under local anaesthetic to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. Our podiatrist will explain what to expect and guide you through aftercare to minimise any side effects.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Topical therapies: usually require weekly or fortnightly visits over a few weeks
KOH: often effective after 1–2 sessions, with visible improvement in 2–6 weeks
Your podiatrist will recommend a treatment plan based on your response and lifestyle needs
Preventing Future Warts
Wear shoes in public showers and pool areas
Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas
Keep your feet clean and dry
Do not share socks or footwear
Avoid picking at warts to prevent spreading
Treat any cuts or abrasions on your feet promptly
Why Choose KL Foot Specialist for Wart Care?
Experienced podiatrist-led diagnosis and treatment
Individualised plans tailored to your condition
Sterile, safe medical environment
Alternatives to cryotherapy and freezing
Gentle options for children, adults, and high-risk patients (e.g., diabetes)
Book Your Wart Assessment Today
Warts can be stubborn, painful, and embarrassing—but they don’t have to be permanent. Let our podiatrist help you remove them safely, effectively, and comfortably.
Call now or book online
KL Foot Specialist Podiatry – Comprehensive skin and foot care in Kuala Lumpur