Differin gel for warts: what to know

Warts are rough growths caused by a viral infection of the skin. A wart can resemble a corn, callus, skin tag, molluscum, or another lesion, and treatment differs between them. Adapalene changes surface cell turnover but is not designed as a standard wart-destroying medicine.

The location matters. A lesion on the face, near the eye, around the genitals, or under a nail deserves professional guidance rather than trial-and-error treatment.

Have an uncertain, painful, bleeding, or persistent growth examined. If a clinician recommends adapalene, follow the exact application instructions and keep it away from healthy surrounding skin, eyes, mucous membranes, and broken areas. Wash hands after touching the lesion and do not share towels, razors, or nail tools.

Avoid picking, cutting, or repeatedly filing a wart, since this can injure skin and spread viral particles to nearby areas. Read about [Adapalene](/materials/adapalene/) and [Topical Retinoids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-retinoids/) for medication context.

Arrange prompt assessment if the growth changes colour or shape, bleeds without clear injury, becomes very painful, or fails to heal. Seek urgent help for rapidly spreading redness, pus, fever, or severe swelling after applying a product. People with diabetes, reduced sensation, or weakened immunity should obtain advice before treating a foot or hand lesion.

Ask whether the lesion is truly a wart, whether its site changes the treatment choice, how to protect nearby skin, and what to do if irritation develops. Mention medicines or conditions that affect healing and any previous wart treatments.