My Periungual Wart Journey (tips of what has worked for me)
Around August 2025, I noticed a strange callus forming on my right ring finger, right next to the nail. I ignored it (a mistake in hindsight) and didn’t get it checked in time. It continued to grow, and by March 2026, it had expanded to cover the entire side of my nail, so I finally decided to visit a dermatologist.
That leads to my first tip:
1. Visit a dermatologist: They know best how to handle these types of warts.
The doctor explained that this was a periungual wart, caused by a strain of the HPV virus.
This leads to tip number 2:
2. BE PATIENT: These things are stubborn as hell; you have to be relentless.
Given the size and depth of the wart, the doctor suggested surgical removal. I agreed, and he proceeded to remove the wart and cauterize the wound with specialized equipment to prevent it from recurring.
However, after three weeks, it came back with a vengeance. The doctor asked when I had last done blood work; my honest answer was "years ago."
That leads to the third tip:
3. Get blood tests done regularly: People with high blood sugar may struggle more with these types of issues, as their immune systems can be slightly compromised.
Luckily, my blood sugar was fine (though the tests helped me realize I needed to change several lifestyle habits). Nonetheless, the doctor prescribed an immune system booster and surgically removed the wart again. He also prescribed other medications.
4. Finish your treatment: I took every single pill the doctor prescribed, at the exact same time every day for 20 days. When the finger started to heal, it looked much better than the first time. But it wasn't over yet.
The doctor suggested complementing the treatment with one of two topical options: Podophyllin or Imiquimod (5%), plus another cycle of the immune booster.
5. If your doctor suggests it, use Imiquimod:
To be honest, I used both, but Imiquimod gave me better results. In my case, I noticed a difference from the very first use. The doctor warned me that some people have adverse skin reactions to these substances, but luckily, I didn't. Although I was getting desperate and used both, please follow your doctor's specific advice on application.
Today, the wart finally peeled off, and for the first time, I can see healthy pink skin on my finger! However, I’m not done yet. Here is tip number 6:
6. Get the HPV vaccine: My doctor explained this is beneficial as it provides immunity against other warts and even certain types of skin cancer. Some people are more prone to developing periungual warts, so this is a must.
I’m getting my first shot (out of three) in a few days. I will also continue using Imiquimod for the next few weeks and finish my immune booster cycle as directed.
I wanted to share this because I’ve seen endless Reddit posts from people struggling with this for years. I want to tell you there is hope, but you must be relentless. As the saying goes: "In the face of villains and diseases, give no quarter."
The doctor hasn’t discharged me yet, but I’m hopeful this thing will be gone for good.
Greetings from Mexico