Verruca Treatment in Hendon
Effective treatment options for stubborn verrucas in adults and children
From £40 · Freezing £40 | Verrutop £60 | Needling £120
Verrucas (plantar warts) are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as rough, raised areas on the sole of the foot. They are extremely common — particularly in children and teenagers — and while they can resolve on their own, this often takes months or even years. If a verruca is painful, spreading, or persistent, professional treatment can speed up resolution significantly.
What Are Verrucas and Why Do They Persist?
Verrucas develop when HPV enters through tiny breaks in the skin, usually on the sole of the foot. Pressure from walking pushes the verruca inward, which is why they can become painful — particularly under the heel or ball of the foot.
They are contagious and commonly picked up in communal areas such as swimming pools, gym changing rooms, and shared bathrooms. Children and teenagers are more susceptible because their immune systems are still developing a response to the virus.
Some verrucas resolve within a few months as the immune system clears the virus. Others persist for years, particularly in adults. If a verruca has been present for more than three months, is growing, or is painful when walking, treatment is recommended.
Treatment Options
Anna will assess your verruca and recommend the most suitable approach based on its size, location, and how long it has been present:
- Cryotherapy (freezing) — liquid nitrogen applied to destroy the verruca tissue, typically requiring 2–4 sessions. £40 per session.
- Verrutop — a professional-strength nitric acid and organic acid preparation applied in clinic, effective for resistant verrucas. £60 per session.
- Needling (Falknor's needling) — a minor procedure under local anaesthetic that stimulates the immune system to fight the HPV virus. Particularly effective for stubborn, long-standing verrucas that have resisted other treatments. £120.
- Debridement and reduction — removing overlying hard skin to improve treatment penetration and reduce discomfort
- Combination approaches — using multiple methods together for resistant verrucas
Multiple treatment sessions are usually needed, spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Anna will discuss realistic timelines during your initial assessment so you know what to expect.
Prevention
Reducing your risk of picking up or spreading verrucas is straightforward:
- Wear flip-flops or pool shoes in communal showers and pool surrounds
- Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes with others
- Keep feet clean and dry
- Do not pick, scratch, or attempt to cut out a verruca yourself
- Cover existing verrucas with a waterproof plaster when swimming
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children have verruca treatment?
Yes. Verrucas are very common in school-age children. Anna takes a gentle, age-appropriate approach and will discuss the best treatment options with you and your child.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the size and age of the verruca. Most patients need 2–6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Anna will give you a realistic estimate after assessing the verruca.
Is verruca treatment painful?
Cryotherapy can cause a brief stinging sensation. Chemical treatments are generally painless. Anna will explain what to expect before starting any treatment.
Ready to Book?
Call 0208 202 6008 or book online. No referral needed.
Serving Hendon NW4, Golders Green, Mill Hill, Edgware, Hampstead, Finchley, and all surrounding areas.