What Is Seborrheic Keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis is a common, noncancerous skin growth that often appears later in life. These growths can vary in color and may look waxy, rough, or slightly raised on the skin.
The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors may increase risk, including:
- Aging
- Family history
- Long-term sun exposure
Many people describe them as having a “stuck-on” appearance. While they are usually harmless, seborrheic keratoses can sometimes resemble skin cancer, so it is important to have new or changing growths evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Symptoms
Seborrheic keratoses may appear one at a time or in larger numbers. They often become more common with age.
Common features include:
- Brown, black, tan, or light-colored growths
- Waxy, rough, or wart-like texture
- Raised patches with clear borders
- Mild itching or irritation
- Painless skin changes
These growths are most often found on the chest, back, face, neck, shoulders, or arms.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers usually diagnose seborrheic keratosis through a skin exam. They evaluate the growth’s color, shape, texture, and borders.
If a lesion looks unusual or changes over time, a skin biopsy may be recommended to rule out skin cancer.
How Is It Treated?
Many seborrheic keratoses do not require treatment unless they become irritated, itchy, or bothersome in appearance.
Treatment options may include:
- Cryotherapy to freeze the growth
- Minor surgical removal
- Electrosurgery to remove the lesion
- Biopsy of suspicious or changing growths
People should avoid trying to remove these growths at home because other skin conditions can look similar.
