Warts are skin growths that commonly appear on many areas of the body. If you are unhappy with the look of a wart, or if the wart causes you discomfort or pain, wart removal is a great option. At our office, we use Cantharidin to effectively and safely eliminate your warts for long-lasting results. 

What is Cantharidin?

Cantharidin is a topical treatment used to remove molluscum contagiosum and warts.  Cantharidin is a substance derived from the blister beetle Cantharis vesicatoria. Some practitioners refer to this treatment as “beetle juice” –especially when it is used in our pediatric population.

Who is a Good Candidate for Cantharidin?

Individuals who desire a procedure that is painless to apply or those who have failed liquid nitrogen therapy or over-the-counter therapy. This treatment is mainly performed in our pediatric patients. The most common types of conditions that this treatment addresses include:

Common Warts

Appear small and grainy and usually occur on the hands and fingers. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and are transmitted by touching others.  

Molluscum Contagiosum

This is a common infection caused by a poxvirus, which results in small, red, bumps that might be painful or itch. These can readily occur on body folds and sometimes number by the dozen. They are spread through contact with others or objects that carry the virus.

Periungual Warts

Are usually located around the toenails and fingernails. They start out small and can grow slowly, eventually spreading to clusters. These warts are caused by the HPV and are frequently difficult to eradicate with home remedies.

If you are unhappy or embarrassed about the appearance of these, or if the lesion(s) results in irritation, discomfort, or pain, Cantharidin treatment is a great option. At our office, we use Cantharidin to effectively and safely eliminate your molluscum and warts for long-lasting results.

What to Expect During CantharidinTreatment?

Cantharidin is applied topically to the skin being treated with instructions to wash off the area in a few hours. This medication works by creating a blister under the wart or molluscum, which cuts off the wart’s blood supply. This subsequent blister may be itchy, inflamed, or uncomfortable, which is normal and will dissipate after some time. Over-the-counter analgesics can help with any discomfort that occurs. The crusted blister will then fall off, leaving your skin to heal normally. In some cases, several treatments will be necessary, depending on the size and number of targets being treated. 

Recovery from CantharidinTreatment

There is no downtime needed after this treatment, which means individuals can go about their daily routines. Any areas treated should then blister and scab for about seven days after treatment. In order to avoid future infectious growths, practice good hand hygiene, and try not to share your personal items such as towels, hats, razors, socks, etc. If you have any questions after your wart or molluscum Cantharidin treatment, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. 

Schedule a Consultation

If you have uncomfortable or unsightly warts or molluscum, Cantharidin treatments can really help! Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with one of our expert dermatology providers. We will be happy to answer any questions regarding treatment that you may have.

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