Seborrhoeic keratosis

Seborrhoeic keratoses are very common benign skin growths that appear with age. They are sometimes referred to as age warts or barnacles. Although they may look concerning because of their colour or texture, they are not linked to skin cancer.

Appearance

• Warty or waxy surface
• Brown, black, yellow or skin coloured
• Often appear stuck on to the skin
• Single or multiple lesions anywhere on the body

Some seborrhoeic keratoses become irritated by clothing or picking, which can cause redness, crusting or bleeding. These changes can mimic other conditions, so specialist assessment is recommended when a lesion looks different or changes suddenly.

When to remove them

Removal is not medically necessary unless:

• The lesion looks atypical or suspicious
• It catches and becomes irritated
• It is causing cosmetic concern

Treatment

• Cryotherapy for smaller lesions
• Curettage and cautery for thicker lesions

If you have a new or changing lesion that may be a seborrhoeic keratosis, please get in touch through the contact page.