What should you know about facial warts?

A facial wart may appear as a small, rough bump, a smooth flat-topped spot, or a cluster of closely spaced growths. They can occur around the nose, mouth, cheeks, jawline, or eyelids. Touching, shaving, picking, or biting can spread the virus to nearby skin. Other bumps can resemble warts, including harmless moles, skin tags, or irritated lesions, so appearance alone is not enough for diagnosis.

Do not use strong over-the-counter wart acids, cut the growth, or tie it off on your face unless a clinician specifically advises it. These approaches can irritate thin facial skin and leave a darker or lighter mark. Keep the area clean, avoid picking, and do not share towels, razors, or cosmetics that touch the lesion. A dermatologist may discuss [Wart Removal](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/wart-removal/), freezing with [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/), [Electrosurgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/electrosurgery/), or selected medicines such as [Imiquimod Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/imiquimod-therapy/). The choice depends on the wart's type, position, size, and your skin's tendency to pigment after inflammation.

Arrange an assessment if a facial growth bleeds, becomes painful, changes quickly, forms an ulcer, affects the eyelid, or has an uncertain diagnosis. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, or fever after attempted removal. A new facial bump that does not behave like your previous warts deserves examination before treatment.

Ask whether the growth is definitely a wart, which treatment is least likely to mark your skin, how to protect the eyes and lips, and what to do if new bumps appear nearby.