Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection that causes small, firm bumps. It is usually harmless and clears without treatment, although the spots can persist for many months. It is most common in children but can affect people of any age.
What the spots look like
The bumps are usually smooth, round and skin-coloured, pink, brown or grey depending on skin tone. Many have a small central dimple. They may appear in clusters on the chest, abdomen, arms, legs, face or skin folds.
The surrounding skin can become dry, inflamed or itchy. Scratching can spread the virus to nearby skin and may introduce a bacterial infection.
How it spreads
The virus spreads through direct skin contact and, less often, through shared objects such as towels, clothing or sports equipment. It can also spread from one part of the body to another by scratching, shaving or other skin trauma.
In adults, bumps around the genitals may be transmitted during sexual contact. Other causes of genital bumps can look similar, so a sexual health assessment may be appropriate.
What to do
- Try not to scratch, squeeze or pick the spots.
- Keep affected skin clean and dry.
- Cover visible spots with clothing or a waterproof dressing during close-contact sport or swimming.
- Do not share towels, clothing or razors.
- Treat surrounding eczema with advice from a pharmacist or clinician.
Children can usually continue attending school or nursery and do not need to be excluded from swimming if the spots are covered appropriately. Follow any local facility guidance.
Does it need treatment?
Most people do not need treatment because the immune system clears the infection naturally. Spots often disappear within 6 to 18 months, but they can last longer and new bumps may appear while older ones fade.
Treatment may be considered when lesions are very troublesome, repeatedly infected, near the eyes, extensive or associated with weakened immunity. Options vary and can irritate the skin or cause pigment changes or scarring. Home remedies and products intended for ordinary warts may burn the skin and should not be used without professional advice.
When to seek medical advice
Arrange an assessment if you are unsure of the diagnosis, the spots are close to an eye, there is severe eczema, lesions are widespread, or the affected person has a weakened immune system.
Seek advice for increasing pain, warmth, swelling, spreading redness, pus or fever. Mild redness as an individual spot begins to resolve does not always mean infection, but rapidly worsening symptoms need review.
Find more information about common rashes and warning signs in Skin Health.
Sources
Reviewed: 28 August 2026
Medical disclaimer: This information is general and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.