Flat Warts on the Face: Treatment in Seoul
The short answer
Flat warts are small, smooth, slightly raised bumps caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), and because they are viral they can spread across the face, especially along shaved or scratched lines. At Shinebom Clinic in Jamsil, Seoul, Er:YAG laser is listed for flat warts, after a doctor confirms the diagnosis.
Key facts
- Cause: HPV infection of the skin
- Look: many small, flat, skin-colored to light-brown bumps
- Spread: through scratching, shaving, touching
- Laser: Er:YAG is used for flat warts
- Pricing: quoted after consultation
Why do flat warts appear?
Flat warts, also called verruca plana, develop when the skin's immune response meets HPV, usually through tiny breaks in the skin. They appear more often in teenagers and young adults, and in people who shave the face or have skin irritation. They may clear on their own over months or years, but sometimes they linger or multiply.
How is the diagnosis made?
Flat warts can resemble freckles, milia, syringoma or acne marks. The doctor at Shinebom Clinic examines the pattern. A cluster of similar bumps in a line is a classic sign. If a bump is solitary, changing or bleeding, the doctor may advise a different workup. The clinic is not a replacement for a general medical review if your immune system is weakened.
Which treatments may help?
The clinic lists flat warts under pigmentation laser, using Er:YAG, which is also used for superficial spots, moles, seborrheic keratosis and scars. The laser removes the superficial lesion, and after treatment you can expect redness for 2 to 4 days. Moisturize, use sunscreen, avoid scrubs and never pick scabs.
What results are realistic?
Because the virus can remain in the skin, new warts may appear later, and more than one session is possible. Good skin hygiene helps: avoid scratching, do not share razors or towels, and avoid shaving over bumps. Healing steps are in the pigmentation laser aftercare guide.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if bumps spread quickly, become painful or inflamed, or if you are immunosuppressed or pregnant. Tell them before any laser treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Are flat warts contagious?
Yes, they can spread to other areas or people through direct contact or shared items.
Can they go away without treatment?
Often yes over time, but it can take months or years, and many people prefer to treat them.
Should I stop shaving?
Shaving over warts can spread them. Ask your doctor about hair removal options for the area.
Related pages
General information from Shinebom Clinic, not personal medical advice. Results and recovery vary between individuals, and all procedures carry possible risks and side effects. A doctor will confirm what suits you at consultation.
Bloom yourself, in your own way
Tell us your skin concerns and dates in English. Shinebom Clinic is a 3-minute walk from Jamsil Station, exits 8 and 9.