Seborrhoeic Keratosis
Seborrhoeic keratoses are extremely common and are a type of non-contagious, benign skin growth. They tend to become more common with age and can be associated with long-term sun exposure and hereditary factors.
They are commonly found on the temples, sides of the face and upper body. They can vary in colour from pale yellow through to very dark brown and often resemble a ‘bran flake’ that has been stuck onto the skin.
Appointments include consultation, dermoscopy assessment, treatment/removal and aftercare.
What is seborrhoeic keratosis?
A seborrhoeic keratosis is a common, benign (non-cancerous) skin growth. They tend to become more common with age and can occur on the face, chest, back, shoulders and other areas of the body.
They can look quite different from one person to another. Typical features include:
- A brown, tan, black or skin-coloured growth
- A rough, waxy or wart-like surface
- A lesion that appears to be “stuck onto” the skin
- A lesion that can be either flat or raised
- Lesions ranging from just a few millimetres across to considerably larger
- A person may have one or many lesions
Are they dangerous?
Usually, no. Seborrhoeic keratoses are benign and do not themselves become skin cancer. However, not every pigmented or raised lesion is a seborrhoeic keratosis. If you notice any of the following, we recommend speaking to your GP:
- A new or changing lesion
- Rapid growth
- Bleeding
- Persistent crusting
- Pain
- Very dark or unusually pigmented areas
- A lesion that looks noticeably different from your other lesions
Why do they develop?
The exact cause is not completely understood. Age is the strongest association, and genetics can also play a role. They are not caused by poor hygiene and are not contagious.
They can also appear in large numbers, sometimes quite suddenly. However, a sudden eruption of numerous lesions should be medically assessed rather than assuming they are all seborrhoeic keratoses.
Can seborrhoeic keratoses be removed?
Yes. If a seborrhoeic keratosis is bothersome, catches on clothing or jewellery, becomes irritated, or you simply want it removed for cosmetic reasons, there are several possible removal techniques.
Depending on the lesion and clinical assessment, these can include:
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- Curettage (removing the lesion with a specialised instrument)
- Other clinician-selected techniques
The appropriate method depends on the size, thickness, location and appearance of the lesion.
