Causes of Warts & Molluscum in Children

It can be worrying for parents to notice small bumps, spots, or rough growths on their child’s skin — especially when they appear suddenly or spread quickly. Conditions like warts and molluscum contagiosum are among the most common skin infections seen in children, and while they are harmless, they can be annoying, contagious, and sometimes emotionally distressing for young patients.

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, our dermatology specialists frequently treat these conditions in children with safe, effective, and child-friendly methods. Understanding what causes warts and molluscum can help parents recognize them early and prevent further spread.

What Are Warts and Molluscum Contagiosum?

Warts

Warts are small, rough bumps that can appear on the hands, fingers, feet, or knees. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which infects the outer layer of the skin. In children, warts are very common because their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to viral skin infections.

Warts can spread through:

• Direct contact with another person’s wart
• Touching contaminated surfaces, such as towels or playground equipment
• Picking or scratching the wart can spread the virus to nearby skin

Most warts are painless, but plantar warts (on the soles of the feet) can become uncomfortable when walking or standing.

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is another viral skin condition caused by the poxvirus. It appears as small, dome-shaped, flesh-colored bumps with a tiny dimple in the center.

These bumps can appear anywhere — commonly on the face, arms, chest, or legs. Molluscum is also highly contagious and can spread through:

• Skin-to-skin contact during play or sports
• Sharing towels, clothing, or toys
• Scratching or rubbing the bumps spreads the virus to nearby skin

Although molluscum lesions are not painful, they may itch or become red and inflamed, especially if scratched or infected.

Why Children Are More Prone to Warts and Molluscum

Children’s skin is more delicate, and their immune systems are still developing — making them more likely to catch these infections. A few common triggers include:

• Close physical contact in schools, nurseries, and play areas
• Minor cuts or scrapes that allow viruses to enter the skin
• Warm, humid climates like Dubai’s, which can make the virus thrive
• Weakened immunity or frequent colds make it harder for the body to fight off viruses

It’s important to remember that neither condition is a sign of poor hygiene — these viruses are simply common and easy to catch.

When to See a Dermatologist

Most warts and molluscum spots eventually go away on their own, but this can take several months or even years. You should consult a dermatologist if:

• The lesions are spreading rapidly
• They become red, painful, or infected
• Your child feels embarrassed or uncomfortable because of the bumps
• The lesions are near the eyes, mouth, or genital area
• Over-the-counter creams or home remedies haven’t worked

At DRHC Dubai, our dermatologists carefully assess each case to recommend the gentlest and most effective treatment suited for your child’s age and skin type.

Treatment Options at DRHC Dubai

While some cases resolve naturally, treatment helps speed up recovery and reduce the risk of spreading to others. Common options include:

1. Topical Treatments

Mild medicated creams or solutions may be used to gradually remove warts or molluscum bumps. These are applied under medical supervision to ensure safe and effective results.

2. Cryotherapy (Freezing)

This involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze and remove the wart. The procedure is quick and well-tolerated in children, especially when numbing creams are used beforehand.

3. Laser Therapy

Advanced laser treatment can precisely target and remove stubborn warts or molluscum lesions with minimal discomfort and virtually no scarring — a preferred option for visible areas like the face or hands.

4. Gentle Curettage or Minor Removal

For isolated lesions, a dermatologist may remove them safely in a sterile environment. The area heals quickly with proper aftercare.

At DRHC, every procedure is done using child-friendly techniques to keep young patients relaxed and comfortable throughout the process.

How to Prevent Warts and Molluscum in Children

Parents can take simple steps to help protect their child’s skin and reduce the risk of spreading the infection:

• Encourage frequent handwashing
• Avoid sharing towels, combs, or clothing
• Keep your child’s skin moisturized to prevent small cracks
• Cover visible bumps with a small bandage to reduce transmission
• Discourage scratching or picking the bumps
• Clean toys and surfaces regularly, especially in shared environments