Seborrheic Keratoses

Patient Information: Seborrheic Keratoses

Understanding Seborrheic Keratoses:

Seborrheic keratoses are non-cancerous growths that commonly appear on the skin as people age. These growths typically start as small, rough patches and gradually thicken over time, becoming raised and developing a waxy, wart-like appearance. Seborrheic keratoses can vary in color, ranging from flesh-colored to dark brown or black, and they often have a “stuck-on” or “pasted-on” appearance.

Symptoms of Seborrheic Keratoses:

  1. Raised, wart-like growths on the skin.
  2. Rough or scaly texture.
  3. Varied colors, including flesh-colored, brown, black, or even shades of red or yellow.
  4. Usually painless but may occasionally itch or become irritated if rubbed or scratched.

Causes of Seborrheic Keratoses:

While the exact cause of seborrheic keratoses is not fully understood, several factors may contribute to their development, including:

  1. Aging: Seborrheic keratoses are more common in older individuals, typically appearing after the age of 40.
  2. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing seborrheic keratoses, as they tend to run in families.
  3. Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure over a lifetime may increase the risk of developing seborrheic keratoses.

Treatment Options:

Seborrheic keratoses are generally harmless and do not require treatment unless they become bothersome or cosmetically undesirable. However, if treatment is desired for cosmetic reasons or if the growths become irritated or symptomatic, several treatment options are available:

  1. Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves freezing the seborrheic keratosis with liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister and eventually fall off.
  2. Curettage: Curettage involves scraping off the seborrheic keratosis with a special instrument called a curette. This procedure may be combined with electrosurgery to cauterise the area and reduce bleeding.
  3. Topical Treatments: Certain topical treatments, such as retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids, may help reduce the appearance of seborrheic keratoses over time by promoting skin exfoliation and cell turnover.
  4. Laser Therapy: Laser therapy can be used to remove seborrheic keratoses by destroying them with focused light energy.

Prevention:

While seborrheic keratoses cannot be entirely prevented, there are steps you can take to minimise their appearance and reduce the risk of developing new growths:

  1. Sun Protection: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen daily, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves.
  2. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate hydration to support overall skin health.
  3. Skin Checks: Perform regular self-examinations of your skin and monitor any changes in the appearance of existing seborrheic keratoses or the development of new growths. If you notice any concerning changes, consult a dermatologist for evaluation.