17/06/2026
Lot’s of people have opinions about verrucae that are just not true. Let’s break down a few of them:
1. They have roots that need to be dug out
Verrucas do not have roots. They are viral infections affecting the top layers of skin. The small black dots you can see are not roots; they are simply tiny, dried blood particles. And attempting to cut them out by yourself is incredibly dangerous and can lead to severe infections, scarring, and actually cause the virus to spread.
2. They are a sign of poor hygiene
Verrucas are caused by the HPV virus, which thrives in warm and damp conditions. So while you should wear flip-flops when possible to prevent transmission, having a verruca does not mean you are dirty.
3. They disappear on their own
They might well do for some people as your body builds a natural immunity, but this can take a long time, and also isn’t the case for everyone. If you have a verruca that’s spreading, becoming very painful, or causing discomfort, then seeking professional treatment is the fastest way to get rid of it.