Benign Growths & Cysts
Seborrheic Keratosis
WHAT IS IT
A benign (non-cancerous) skin growth
HOW COMMON
Very common, especially with age
CONTAGIOUS?
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
CURABLE?
Harmless; can be removed if desired
What Is It?
A seborrheic keratosis is a common, harmless skin growth that often looks waxy, scaly, or "stuck on" the skin, like a dab of candle wax. They range from light tan to dark brown or black and are usually raised. Most people develop one or more as they get older.
Signs & Symptoms
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Waxy, scaly, or "stuck-on" looking growth
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Light tan, brown, or black in color
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Round or oval, often slightly raised
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Usually painless, but can itch or catch on clothing
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Most common on the face, chest, shoulders, and back
Why Does It Happen?
The exact cause isn't fully known, but these growths become more common with age and often run in families. They are made of a buildup of ordinary skin cells. They are NOT caused by sun damage in the way skin cancers are, and they are not contagious or a sign of a serious health problem.
Treatment Options
Because they are harmless, seborrheic keratoses usually need no treatment. Removal is an option if a growth is irritated, itchy, catches on clothing, or you dislike its appearance.
CRYOTHERAPY
Freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen so it falls off over days.
CURETTAGE
Scraping the growth off after numbing the skin; sometimes with light electric current.
LEAVE IT ALONE
Perfectly reasonable — no treatment is needed for a growth that isn't bothering you.
CHECK NEW CHANGES
Any growth that changes quickly, bleeds, or looks unusual should be examined.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Avoid picking or scratching, which can cause bleeding or infection
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Note any growth that changes color, size, or shape
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Protect your skin from the sun as general good practice
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Don't try to remove growths yourself at home
When to Call Your Provider
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A growth changes quickly in size, shape, or color
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A growth bleeds, oozes, or won't heal
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You're unsure whether a spot is a keratosis or something else
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A growth becomes painful or repeatedly irritated
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Seborrheic Keratoses: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/seborrheic-keratoses-overview
DermNet. Seborrhoeic Keratosis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/seborrhoeic-keratosis
MSD/Merck Manual. Seborrheic Keratoses. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/benign-skin-tumors-growths-and-vascular-lesions/seborrheic-keratoses
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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