Skin warts are usually caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which affects the outer skin and causes small, rough bumps. Warts can appear on your hands, feet, face, neck and other parts of the body. They often spread slowly through skin contact, scratching or exchange of personal items. Some warts go away on their own, but others can last months or even years. The best treatment depends on the size and number of warts, and their location. Doctors might use topical medicines with keratolytic agents, freezing (cryotherapy), chemical treatments, cauterization, laser therapy, or minor procedures to remove stubborn warts. Smaller warts often respond to regular topical treatments, while larger or deeper warts may require several sessions to clear. Try not to cut, scratch, or pick at warts, since this can spread the virus to nearby skin. Keeping the area clean and dry can help reduce irritation. If you notice a wart growing quickly, bleeding, hurting, or changing colour, have it checked by a doctor, as some skin problems can look like regular warts.