What it is
Molluscum contagiosum is a skin condition caused by a virus. It typically appears as small, firm, dome-shaped bumps that may be skin-colored, pinkish or pearly, and some have a tiny dimple in the center. The bumps can show up alone or in groups.
It spreads through skin-to-skin contact and through shared items such as towels or other personal objects. It can also spread from one area of a person's own skin to another. It is seen in many settings, including among children and adults, and having it is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Because several skin conditions can look alike, including warts and, rarely, more serious growths, it is not wise to guess. Any spot or growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer, and should not be self-treated. The ABCDEs of melanoma are only a general guide, never a way to diagnose yourself.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Molluscum has traditionally been approached in more than one way. In many cases, clinicians have discussed simply watching it, since the bumps often go away on their own over time, though how long that takes varies from person to person.
When people and clinicians choose to act, approaches have included in-office procedures such as cryotherapy (freezing), gentle scraping by a clinician, and topical medicines applied in the office or prescribed for home use. One in-office option is cantharidin, a blistering agent applied by a clinician.
Which approach is appropriate depends on the person, the location of the bumps and a licensed clinician's evaluation. Results vary, and bumps can return or new ones can appear. For prescription products such as cantharidin formulations, ask your provider about their current FDA status rather than relying on a general web page.
How the right provider may help
A visit with a dermatologist, pediatrician, primary care clinician or sexual-health provider generally starts with a look at the skin and some questions about when the bumps appeared, whether they have changed, and whether anyone close to you has similar bumps. The goal is first to confirm what the bumps are.
Once the skin has been examined, a provider may talk through the possibilities, which can include watchful waiting or in-office options. They may help weigh comfort, location, age, and how likely the bumps are to spread. Any choice is made together with you after an evaluation, and no outcome is guaranteed.
Helpful questions to bring: Is this molluscum or something else? Does it need treatment, or can we watch it? What are the pros and cons of each option, including cryotherapy or cantharidin? How do I lower the chance of spreading it? What should I avoid doing at home? Do any of my health conditions change the plan?
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Visible bumps can bring worry, self-consciousness or frustration, especially for parents and for people who feel embarrassed, and stress can in turn make it harder to rest and care for yourself. Looking at the whole person, not only the skin, can be a kind and practical way to approach it.
If the emotional side feels heavy, body-based support such as Somatic Experiences may appeal to some people, and talk therapy through Therapists.plus may help others work through worry or shame. These are optional supports that sit alongside, not in place of, care from a licensed clinician for the skin itself.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Therapists.plus: anxiety panic and ocd →
Keep in mind
- Educational only: this page is not medical advice and cannot diagnose you or your child; a licensed clinician should examine any bumps.
- Do not cut, burn, pick or dig out bumps at home, and avoid over-the-counter wart products on the face or genital area; people with diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system should ask a provider before treating anything at home.
- A growth that is changing, bleeding, itching, irregular in shape or color, or not healing should be checked by a dermatologist for skin cancer.
- Licensed professionals should guide care; for emergencies call 911, and in a crisis call or text the 988 Lifeline.
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Frequently asked questions
What is molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin condition that causes small, smooth, raised bumps. It is usually harmless and often clears on its own over time, though timing varies. A licensed clinician can confirm what the bumps are.
Is molluscum contagiosum the same as a wart?
No, it is a different condition caused by a different virus, although the bumps can look similar to warts. Because look-alikes exist, including some skin growths that need attention, a clinician should examine anything you are unsure about.
How does molluscum contagiosum spread?
It spreads mainly through skin-to-skin contact and through shared items like towels. It can also spread to other areas of your own skin, for example by scratching or picking. A provider can explain practical ways to lower the chance of spreading it.
Does molluscum contagiosum go away on its own?
Often it does, but how long that takes varies from person to person, and it can be slow. Some people choose to watch and wait, while others talk with a clinician about in-office options. Bumps can also return or new ones can appear.
What are the in-office options for molluscum contagiosum?
Options a clinician may discuss include cryotherapy (freezing), gentle scraping, and topical medicines such as cantharidin, a blistering agent applied in the office. Whether any of these is appropriate is decided by a licensed clinician after an evaluation, and results vary. Ask your provider about the current FDA status of any prescription product.
Can I treat molluscum contagiosum at home?
Do not cut, burn, pick or dig out bumps at home, as this can cause irritation, infection or spreading. Over-the-counter wart products are not meant for the face or genital area. If you have diabetes, poor circulation, neuropathy or a weakened immune system, ask a provider before treating anything yourself.
Educational resource. Warts.ai shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.