Warts are a common and frustrating skin condition that can appear on any part of the body. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the top layer of skin and causes a raised, bumpy growth.

While warts are generally harmless, they can be unsightly and uncomfortable, and they can also spread to other parts of the body or to other people.

If you’re someone who is prone to warts, or if you’ve had warts in the past and don’t want them to return, here are 30 tips for avoiding warts and keeping your skin healthy.

Tip #1: Wash Your Hands Regularly

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of warts is to wash your hands regularly. This is especially important if you have warts or have been in contact with someone who has them.

Use soap and warm water, and be sure to clean under your fingernails and between your fingers.

Warts can be spread through personal items like towels, razors, and nail clippers. To avoid spreading warts, don’t share these items with anyone else, and keep them clean and sanitized.

Tip #3: Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry

Warts can often appear on the feet, especially in areas that are prone to moisture and friction. To prevent warts on your feet, keep your feet clean and dry, and wear socks and shoes that fit well and provide good ventilation.

Tip #4: Avoid Walking Barefoot in Public Places

Walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms, pools, and showers can expose your feet to the HPV virus, which can cause warts. Always wear flip-flops, sandals, or other protective footwear in these types of environments.

Tip #5: Don’t Scratch or Pick at Warts

Scratching or picking at warts can spread the virus to other parts of your body or to other people. It can also cause the wart to bleed or become infected. Instead, leave warts alone and let them heal on their own.

Tip #6: Boost Your Immune System

A weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to warts. To keep your immune system strong, eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly. You can also consider taking immune-boosting supplements or medications.

Tip #7: Wear Gloves When Gardening

Warts can be caused by contact with HPV-infected soil. To protect your hands, wear gloves when you’re gardening or doing any outdoor work that involves digging in the soil.

Just like personal items, towels and clothing can harbor the HPV virus and spread warts. Avoid sharing towels or clothing with anyone else, and be sure to wash your own items regularly.

Tip #9: Use Sunscreen

UV radiation from the sun can weaken your skin and make you more vulnerable to warts. To protect your skin, wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 whenever you’re outside, and reapply it every two hours.

Tip #10: Keep Cuts and Scratches Covered

Open wounds on your skin can provide an entry point for the HPV virus. To prevent warts, keep cuts and scratches covered with clean bandages until they are fully healed.

If you wear shoes that someone with warts has worn before, you may be at risk of developing warts yourself. Avoid sharing footwear with anyone else, and wear your own shoes and socks at all times.

Tip #12: Disinfect Common Surfaces

The HPV virus can survive on surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and gym equipment. To prevent the spread of warts, disinfect these surfaces regularly with a bleach or alcohol-based cleaner.

Tip #13: Wear Protective Clothing

If you’re working in an environment where you may be exposed to the HPV virus, such as a hospital, laboratory, or veterinary clinic, wear protective clothing like gloves, masks, and gowns.

Tip #14: Keep Your Hands Moisturized

Dry, cracked skin can be more susceptible to warts. To keep your skin healthy and hydrated, use a moisturizing lotion on your hands and other exposed areas of skin.

Tip #15: Avoid Biting Your Nails

Biting your nails can introduce the HPV virus to your mouth and make you more susceptible to warts. Wear gloves or use a bitter nail polish to break the habit.

Tip #16: Use Separate Manicure Tools

If you get manicures or pedicures, make sure your nail technician uses separate tools for each client. This can help prevent the spread of warts and other infections.

Tip #17: Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin healthy and prevent the development of warts. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day.

Tip #18: Take Off Your Rings

Rings can trap moisture and provide a breeding ground for the HPV virus. Take off your rings regularly and clean them thoroughly with soap and water.

Makeup products can spread the HPV virus and cause warts on the face and lips. Avoid sharing makeup with anyone else, and keep your own products clean and sanitized.

Tip #20: Change Your Socks Regularly

Wearing damp or dirty socks can create an environment that is conducive to the growth of warts. Change into fresh socks every day, and choose socks made from breathable materials like cotton or wool.

Tip #21: Keep Your Hair and Scalp Clean

Warts can also appear on the scalp, especially in children. To prevent this, keep your hair and scalp clean and well-groomed, and avoid sharing combs, brushes, or hair accessories with anyone else.

Tip #22: Avoid Genital Contact

The HPV virus that causes warts can also be spread through sexual contact. To avoid genital warts, use protection during sex and limit your number of sexual partners.

Tip #23: Use Antiviral Medications

If you’re particularly prone to warts or if you’ve had them in the past, talk to your doctor about antiviral medications like topical creams or oral medications.

These can help prevent the spread of the HPV virus and keep warts from returning.

Tip #24: Don’t Touch Other People’s Warts

Warts are highly contagious, so avoid touching other people’s warts or coming into contact with the fluid that comes out of them. This can help prevent the spread of the virus.

Tip #25: Treat Warts Promptly

If you do develop a wart, it’s important to treat it promptly. There are a variety of treatments available, including topical creams, freezing, and surgery. The earlier you treat a wart, the easier it will be to get rid of.

Tip #26: Keep Your Environment Clean

In addition to disinfecting common surfaces, keep your living and working environment clean and clutter-free. This can help limit your exposure to the HPV virus and prevent the growth of warts.

Tip #27: Be Careful Around Animals

Animals can also carry the HPV virus and can spread it to humans. If you work with animals or have pets at home, be sure to practice good hygiene and avoid direct contact with their warts.

Tip #28: Don’t Bite Your Cuticles

Biting your cuticles can cause tiny cuts and openings in the skin that are more susceptible to the HPV virus. Keep your cuticles trimmed and don’t bite or pick at them.

Tip #29: Avoid Touching Your Face

Your hands can carry the HPV virus and can spread it to your face. Avoid touching your face unnecessarily, and be sure to wash your face regularly with a gentle cleanser.

Tip #30: Stay Informed

Finally, stay informed about the latest research and information about warts and the HPV virus. Talk to your doctor or a dermatologist if you have questions or concerns, and stay up-to-date on the latest treatments and prevention strategies.

Conclusion

Warts can be a frustrating and unsightly skin condition, but they can also be prevented. By following these 30 tips, you can reduce your risk of developing warts, keep your skin healthy, and enjoy a more comfortable and confident life.