How Do You Get Warts? Warts develop due to human papillomavirus (HPV) exposure, commonly through direct skin-to-skin contact, contaminated surfaces, or sharing personal items like towels or razors. HPV strains cause skin cells to grow rapidly, leading to wart formation on hands, feet, or other areas. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and wearing protective footwear in communal areas minimize wart risk and transmission.