What should you know about small warts on face?

Facial warts can be rough and raised, or flatter and smoother than common hand warts. They may occur near the forehead, cheeks, beard area, or around the nose and mouth. Shaving, rubbing, and picking can move viral particles to nearby skin. Several small bumps are not automatically warts: acne, milia, irritated follicles, and other lesions can look similar. Bleeding, crusting, rapid change, persistent tenderness, or a dark irregular colour makes an examination especially useful.

Do not scrape, freeze, or apply strong wart products to the face without clinical guidance. Use a clean razor, avoid shaving directly over the bumps, and do not share towels or grooming tools. A dermatologist can match treatment to the lesion and its distance from the eyes, lips, and other sensitive areas. Options may include selected topical treatment such as imiquimod, cryotherapy, electrosurgery, or a tailored wart removal procedure. Sun protection after treatment can help reduce lingering colour change.

Book a review when a facial bump is new and unexplained, keeps returning, or has not responded to a recommended treatment. Seek prompt care for eye involvement, spreading swelling, pus, severe pain, repeated bleeding, or a wound that fails to heal. Ask for individual advice before self-treatment if you have a weakened immune system or a history of difficult scarring.

Does this look like a wart or something else? Which option has the least irritation for this facial location? How should I shave, cleanse, and protect the area during recovery?