Medical Dermatology
Molluscum Treatment in Peachtree City, GA
Molluscum are smooth, pearly, flesh-colored skin growths caused by a viral infection. They start as small bumps, can grow to the size of a pencil eraser, and many have a central indentation where the virus resides. They can itch, the surrounding skin can become inflamed, and while they do eventually clear on their own — anywhere from two weeks to a year and a half — they spread easily through direct contact, which is why treatment is often pursued.
Cantharone: a common first choice
One common treatment is Cantharone, a blistering agent derived from beetles. It's applied precisely to each growth with a wooden applicator and washed off 4 to 6 hours later. A small blister typically forms within a day, and when the scab falls off, the growth disappears with it. Cantharone is favored because it causes very little discomfort when applied and can be placed precisely — particularly useful on the face and in skin folds — and scarring is not a typical outcome.
Blistering is generally mild, though extensive blistering can occur in sensitive individuals. Blisters can be managed with lukewarm water compresses and sterile needle puncturing.
Other treatment options
Freezing with liquid nitrogen is another option, applied with a cotton-tipped applicator; it may feel hot briefly and might cause a blister or irritation. Growths can also be scraped away — or their central core removed — after numbing the area with a topical anesthetic. Topical treatment creams like MolluscumRx are also available. The appropriate treatment varies based on the patient's age and the size and location of the lesions.
What to expect during treatment
Molluscum treatment is rarely one-and-done. New molluscum may develop as treatments are administered, so all visible lesions are typically treated at each visit, and multiple sessions are often necessary. If molluscum recur or new lesions appear, further treatment sessions can be scheduled. Discomfort from treatments is usually mild and can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
Related: Warts · Rashes & Dermatitis
This page is general education, not a diagnosis — see a dermatologist in Peachtree City about your specific skin concern.
Common questions
Yes — typically within two weeks to a year and a half. Treatment is still often worthwhile because the lesions spread easily, can become infected or irritated, can itch, and may be unsightly in the meantime.
A blistering agent derived from beetles, applied precisely to each bump with a wooden applicator and washed off after 4 to 6 hours. A small blister forms within a day; when the scab falls off, the growth goes with it. It causes little discomfort during application, which makes it a favorite for the face and skin folds.
Scarring is not a typical outcome with Cantharone. Blistering is generally mild — though sensitive individuals can blister more extensively — and blisters can be managed with lukewarm compresses and sterile needle puncturing.
Because new molluscum can develop while existing ones are being treated. All visible lesions are treated at each session, multiple sessions are often necessary, and recurrences simply mean scheduling another round. Any discomfort afterward is usually mild and responds to Tylenol or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
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