Laser therapy is one of several options available for removing warts, especially when other treatments haven’t worked. It sounds high-tech – and in some cases, it can be very effective – but it’s not always the first choice. Whether or not it’s the right option depends on the type, size, and location of the wart, as well as your skin type and medical history.
At City Dermatology Clinic, we prioritise treatments based on what offers the best results with the least risk. While laser wart removal is available for specific cases, most patients respond well to simpler methods like cryotherapy or electrocautery. In this article, we’ll explore how laser treatment works, when it’s effective, and what to consider before choosing it.
How Laser Wart Removal Works
Laser therapy involves targeting the wart with concentrated light energy, either to destroy the wart tissue directly or to seal off the blood supply feeding it. The most commonly used lasers in dermatology are:
- CO₂ lasers – Vapourise wart tissue layer by layer
- Pulsed dye lasers (PDL) – Target blood vessels within the wart to cut off oxygen
The laser is applied in controlled pulses, typically under local anaesthetic. There’s usually some mild discomfort, followed by scabbing or blistering as the treated area heals.
Laser treatment is typically considered for:
- Stubborn warts that haven’t responded to freezing or topical treatments
- Plantar warts (verrucae) that are deep and painful
- Cosmetic concerns, when precision is important (e.g. facial warts)
Is Laser the Most Effective Option?
Laser therapy can be effective – but it’s not always the best first-line treatment. Clinical studies show mixed results, and recurrence is still possible, even after laser removal. Most dermatologists recommend starting with lower-cost, lower-risk methods first, especially for children or those with fewer warts.
Here’s a brief comparison:
| Treatment | Effectiveness | Pain/Discomfort | Recovery | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cryotherapy | Moderate to high | Mild–moderate | 7–14 days | Lower |
| Electrocautery | High (single wart) | Mild (local anaesthetic) | 10–21 days | Moderate |
| Laser Therapy | Moderate to high | Moderate | 10–21 days | Higher |
| Surgical Excision | High (stubborn warts) | Mild–moderate | 14–28 days | Moderate–high |
Laser works well when the wart is vascular or deeply embedded, but it’s not usually needed for small, early-stage warts.
When to Consider Alternatives
For most patients, laser isn’t the starting point – it’s a backup when simpler methods haven’t worked. It can also be avoided in some cases due to the higher cost, risk of scarring, or longer downtime.
You might consider alternatives if:
- The wart is flat or superficial
- It’s your first treatment and hasn’t been assessed yet
- You’re prone to scarring or pigmentation changes
- The area is sensitive or highly visible, where a gentler method may be better
In many cases, electrocautery or cryotherapy achieves the same or better results without needing a laser. Our clinicians assess each case and choose the method most likely to clear the wart with minimal disruption to the skin.
