Seborrheic Keratosis

What is Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a common, non-cancerous (benign) skin growth that usually appears as people get older. These growths often look like waxy, scaly, or “stuck-on” patches and may vary in colour from light tan to dark brown or black.

They are harmless and not contagious, but some people choose treatment for cosmetic reasons or discomfort.

Causes

The exact cause is unknown, but contributing factors include:

Ageing – most common in people over 40.

Genetics – family history increases likelihood.

Sun exposure – may encourage growths on exposed areas.

Skin cell overgrowth – due to natural changes in the skin.

Symptoms / Appearance

Raised, wart-like or waxy growths on the skin.

Colours – tan, brown, black, or mixed shades.

Texture – rough, scaly, or smooth.

Shape – oval or round, often with a “stuck-on” look.

Usually appear on the face, chest, back, shoulders, or scalp.

May be itchy or irritated, especially if rubbed by clothing or jewellery.

Treatments

Seborrheic keratosis does not require treatment unless it causes irritation, discomfort, or cosmetic concern.

Professional Treatments

Cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen) – growth falls off after treatment.

Curettage (scraping) – lesion is gently removed under local anaesthesia.

Electrocautery (burning) – destroys the growth with heat.

Laser treatment – vaporises lesions with minimal scarring.

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At-Home Care

No effective home removal is recommended – professional treatment ensures safety and accurate diagnosis (to rule out skin cancer).

Use gentle skincare to avoid irritation if lesions are itchy.

Prevention

Cannot be fully prevented, as they are age and genetics-related.

Sun protection (SPF 30+) – may help reduce the likelihood of new lesions.

Regular skin checks – to distinguish harmless growths from possible skin cancers.

FAQs

Q1. Is seborrheic keratosis cancerous?
No – it is completely benign and not linked to skin cancer.

Q2. Do they go away on their own?
No – once they appear, they usually remain, but they can be safely removed if desired.

Q3. Can seborrheic keratosis turn into melanoma?
No – but sometimes they resemble skin cancer, so it’s important to have new or changing growths checked by a doctor.

Q4. Is removal painful?
Treatments are generally quick, with only mild discomfort during or after the procedure.

Q5. Who gets seborrheic keratosis most often?
Adults over 40, especially those with a family history or extensive sun exposure.