Infections
Warts
Warts are skin growths caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), common on hands, feet and face. Dermatologists treat them with cryotherapy, topical acids, laser or immunotherapy, often over several sessions.
Overview
Warts spread by contact and can persist for months or years. Plantar warts on the soles can be painful.
In Korea, wart treatment is a medical service partly covered by national health insurance.
At a glance
Treatment options
Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, salicylic acid, laser, immunotherapy, curettage.
Sessions
Often several treatments two to three weeks apart.
Prevention
Avoid picking and wear sandals in shared showers.
Frequently asked questions
Are warts contagious?
Yes, through direct contact and shared surfaces.
Why do warts come back?
Virus can remain in surrounding skin.
Is wart removal covered by insurance in Korea?
Medical wart treatment is generally covered in part.
Related
Choose a specialist
See a board-certified dermatologist, not just a “skin clinic”
In Korea, only about 1 in 10 clinics that treat skin is run by a dermatology specialist (피부과 전문의). Specialists complete a four-year dermatology residency and a national exam. Our directory lists only clinics in the Association of Korean Dermatologists’ specialist search. This page is general information, not medical advice.