Verrucas

 

At Regency Footcare, we understand that treating a verruca can be challenging. Verrucas are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear anywhere on the soles of the feet. They often look like a small rough patch of skin and may have tiny black dots (small blood vessels).

 

Because verrucas are contagious, they can spread through direct contact or shared surfaces, such as swimming pool changing rooms.

 

To treat or not to treat?

 

The answer depends on several factors.  In some cases, especially in children, verrucas can disappear on their own.  However, they can sometimes be stubborn, painful, or unsightly, which may cause embarrassment — particularly during barefoot activities.

 

We offer a range of treatment options and recommend booking a consultation so we can discuss the best approach for your individual needs.

 

Verruca Needling

 

Verruca needling is a minor surgical procedure first developed by podiatrist Gordon Falknor in 1969. This specialist technique is designed to stimulate the body’s own immune response to clear stubborn verrucas, especially those that have not responded to other treatments such as acids or freezing.

 

How does it work?

    •    A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area, so the procedure is pain-free.

    •    A fine needle is then used to gently puncture the verruca, pushing viral particles deeper into the skin.

    •    This process triggers the immune system to recognise and fight the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes verrucas.

 

Over time, the immune response works to clear the treated verruca, and sometimes other verrucas on the foot disappear too.

 

Needling has a success rate of around 70% after the first treatment, though occasionally a second session may be required.

 

 

 

Verrutop

 

Verrutop is a topical treatment for verrucas that can only be prescribed and applied by a qualified healthcare professional. It contains a nitrizinc complex that works through a chemical action: when applied, the verruca dries out and changes colour (white/grey/yellowish), eventually leading to its natural detachment.

 

How does the treatment work?

    •    The solution is applied every 1–2 weeks, usually over 4 sessions (though sometimes more may be needed).

    •    At each appointment, your podiatrist will gently remove the hard skin covering the verruca before applying Verrutop directly to the affected area.

    •    After treatment, you will need to leave the area uncovered and apply surgical spirit 1–2 times daily to help the verruca dry out.

 

Effectiveness and benefits

 

As with any verruca treatment, results cannot be guaranteed. However, Verrutop has shown a success rate of around 80–90%. The treatment is usually quick and painless, making it a particularly good option for children compared to procedures like needling or Swift.

 

Other treatment options include salicylic acid, silver nitrate, occlusive taping, or simply allowing time for the verruca to resolve naturally (“tincture of time”). These approaches can be discussed in detail during your verruca consultation.