What is Molluscum Contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a poxvirus that infects the top layer of the skin. It produces firm, pearly or skin-colored bumps, usually 2 to 5 mm wide, often with a small dimple in the center. The bumps spread by skin-to-skin contact, shared towels, swimming pools and scratching, which can transfer the virus to new areas. In healthy people, molluscum often clears on its own within months, but it can take a year or longer and may spread in the meantime. Children with eczema are more prone to widespread bumps.

Who it's for

You may want treatment if you or your child has:

• Small, shiny, dome-shaped bumps with a central dimple
• Bumps that are spreading or appearing in clusters
• Itching or eczema-like irritation around the bumps
• Bumps in areas prone to friction, such as the armpits or inner thighs
• Widespread or large bumps in someone with a weakened immune system, which should be evaluated promptly

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

A dermatologist examines the bumps to confirm molluscum and rule out similar-looking conditions. We then discuss whether active treatment or observation is more suitable, especially for young children.

Active options include curettage, where the core of each bump is gently removed with a small instrument after numbing, and cryotherapy to freeze individual lesions. Prescription topical treatments may also be used. For a limited number of lesions in adults, the CO2 laser can be considered. If eczema or itching is present, we also treat the surrounding skin to reduce scratching and spread.

What to expect

At the visit, a numbing cream is typically applied about 30 to 60 minutes before removal, especially for children. Removal of multiple bumps usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. Tiny spots of bleeding, redness or small scabs are normal and heal within a few days. Temporary light or dark marks can occur. Because new bumps may appear from virus already in the skin, one to three visits a few weeks apart are commonly needed. Results vary, and follow-up helps catch new lesions early.

Aftercare

• Keep treated spots clean and apply the recommended ointment
• Cover bumps when swimming or during contact sports
• Avoid scratching, shaving over or squeezing the bumps
• Use separate towels and wash bedding and clothing regularly
• Moisturize dry or eczema-prone skin to reduce itching
• Return for a follow-up check to treat any new bumps

Frequently asked questions

Is molluscum contagiosum serious?

In most healthy people it is harmless and eventually clears. Treatment can help limit spread and discomfort, and speed up clearance.

Can my child go to school or daycare?

Usually yes. Covering visible bumps and avoiding shared towels can help reduce spread to others.

Does removal hurt?

Numbing cream is applied beforehand, so most patients feel only mild pressure or a brief pinch.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is located at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul (3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors), directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 on Line 3. We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. To book a consultation, call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.