Molluscum contagiosum is one of the most under-discussed skin conditions. It is a poxvirus, related to smallpox and chickenpox, but far less dangerous. In children it spreads through normal skin-to-skin contact. In adults it is often sexually transmitted, which is why most people do not hear about it from their friends.
The good news: it resolves on its own. Almost always. In healthy people, the immune system clears the virus completely. The challenging news: that can take 6 to 18 months, and during that time the lesions can spread to adjacent skin.
This page is our complete coverage of molluscum: how to identify it, how long it really lasts, what at-home treatments have actual evidence behind them, when to see a doctor, and how to live with it without spreading it.
Understanding molluscum
A poxvirus that causes small dome-shaped bumps. Common in kids, sexually transmitted in adults. Almost always resolves on its own — but treatment can shorten the timeline.
Duration and what to expect
Molluscum is self-limiting but persistent. Here is how long it usually lasts and what each phase looks like.
At-home treatments
OTC creams, topical treatments, and what actually has clinical evidence versus what is internet folklore.
In-depth Molluscum guides
All guides →Molluscum natural treatments — what actually works
Tea tree, ZymaDerm, ACV — evidence-graded, honestly.
Molluscum vs warts vs acne — how to tell them apart
Side-by-side comparison with diagnostic features.
Molluscum in children — practical parent guide
Daycare, treatment options, the BOTE phase, and what to actually do.
Frequently asked questions
What is molluscum contagiosum?+
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), a member of the poxvirus family. It causes small, firm, dome-shaped bumps with a central indentation. Bumps are usually painless and clear on their own within 6 to 18 months.
Is molluscum a sexually transmitted infection?+
In adults, molluscum is often transmitted through sexual contact and can affect the genital, lower abdominal, and inner thigh areas. In children, it usually spreads through casual skin-to-skin contact or shared items like towels — it is not an STI in that age group.
How long does molluscum last untreated?+
In healthy people, individual bumps resolve in 2 to 12 months, but new bumps often appear during this time as the virus auto-inoculates to nearby skin. Full clearance typically takes 6 to 18 months. Immunocompromised people may have longer or more extensive outbreaks.
Should I treat molluscum or let it clear on its own?+
Treatment is optional in most cases — the immune system clears the virus eventually. Reasons to treat include: bumps in visible or sexually active areas, cosmetic concerns, persistent itching or irritation, or risk of spread to partners. Common treatments include cryotherapy, curettage, cantharidin (in-office), and OTC topicals.
Can I prevent molluscum from spreading?+
Yes, partially. Avoid scratching or squeezing bumps. Cover lesions when possible. Do not share towels, razors, or clothing that contacts affected areas. Avoid skin-to-skin contact with the affected area, including sexual contact, until the lesions have fully cleared.
What are the most effective home treatments?+
Evidence supports topical agents like potassium hydroxide solution (KOH), salicylic acid, and tea tree oil for some cases. Zymaderm is a popular OTC homeopathic option. Results vary. For stubborn or sexually-located outbreaks, see a dermatologist for cryotherapy or curettage — far more reliable.
Does molluscum leave scars?+
Untreated lesions rarely scar. Scarring is more common from scratching, picking, or aggressive treatment like curettage. To minimize scarring: avoid manipulating the bumps and use gentle treatments first.
Going through it? You are not alone.
Molluscum is rarely talked about because most people clear it quietly. In our community you can ask anything — anonymously — and hear from others who have been through it.
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