Seborrheic keratoses are common benign skin growths that can vary widely in colour, texture, and thickness. If a growth is new, changing, irritated, or simply concerning, a dermatology assessment can help confirm what it is and whether removal is appropriate.
Seborrheic keratoses are benign growths that often develop gradually with age. They may be flat or raised and can have a waxy, rough, or 'stuck-on' appearance.
Their colour can range from skin-toned to tan, brown, or very dark. Some people develop only a few, while others develop many over time. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment is usually optional.
Your dermatologist will assess the lesion based on its appearance, history, and clinical features. Dermoscopy may be used to examine the growth more closely.
If the diagnosis is uncertain or the lesion has concerning features, a biopsy or other form of tissue sampling may be recommended before cosmetic treatment is considered.
The most appropriate technique depends on the lesion's thickness, location, appearance, skin type, and whether tissue needs to be examined.
Liquid nitrogen may be used to freeze selected lesions. A blister, crust, or temporary colour change may occur as the area heals.
Raised lesions may sometimes be removed by gently scraping the growth, using electrical treatment, or combining both techniques.
Some raised lesions may be removed at skin level with a surgical blade. When appropriate, the tissue can also be submitted for laboratory examination.
A comfortable, confirmed seborrheic keratosis can usually be left alone. Treatment may be considered if it repeatedly catches on clothing, becomes irritated, itches, or is cosmetically bothersome.
Removing one lesion does not prevent additional seborrheic keratoses from developing elsewhere over time.
No. A confirmed seborrheic keratosis is benign. However, some skin cancers and other lesions can sometimes look similar, which is why uncertain or changing growths should be assessed.
Usually not. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment is generally optional unless there is another clinical reason to sample or remove the lesion.
A treated lesion may occasionally require additional treatment, and new seborrheic keratoses can develop elsewhere.
Home removal is not recommended. Cutting, scraping, freezing, or applying acids to a growth can cause bleeding, infection, scarring, or delayed diagnosis if the lesion has been misidentified.
Arrange an assessment if a growth is new, changing, bleeding without explanation, persistently irritated, or looks noticeably different from your other spots.
