Have you noticed small, brown bumps begin to form on the surface of your skin as you’ve gotten older? It’s possible that you’ve started to develop seborrheic keratosis, or small, harmless brown growths. While these growths are never cancerous, some patients choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.
At Worcester Dermatology Associates and Chelmsford Dermatology Associates, we’re dedicated to providing patients with skin care advice that can help them have a healthy, radiant complexion for life. If you’d like more information about either of our practices or are interested in scheduling a consultation appointment, contact us today.
What is Seborrheic Keratosis?
A seborrheic keratoses are harmless, non-cancerous skin growth. These growths first crop up as small, rough bumps. Over time, the surface of these bumps become thicker and begin to grow larger in size. Seborrheic keratosis bumps are commonly brown in color, but can also appear in other hues. They typically begin in adulthood, and can develop on nearly any area of the body. These growths can develop on skin that is and isn’t exposed to the sun.
What Causes It?
The root cause of seborrheic keratosis is still not entirely understood. However, studies suggest that there is a genetic link to these growths. This condition seems to run in families, so if your relatives have seborrheic keratosis growths, you’re more likely to develop them. While sun exposure may play a role in their development, seborrheic keratosis can appear on areas of the body rarely exposed to the sun.
One thing aspect of seborrheic keratosis that is confirmed by research is that it is not contagious. This means that you cannot pass it on to other people and that each seborrheic keratosis growth develops independently of other growths.
Can Seborrheic Keratosis be Removed?
While seborrheic keratosis growths can be removed, they never have to be excised from the body for medical reasons. This is because seborrheic keratoses are entirely harmless and always non-cancerous.
Despite being harmless, many patients desire to have these removed for reasons of aesthetics or comfort. These growths can sometimes crop up in areas that are very noticeable, like the face, neck, or chest. They can also develop in areas that clothing frequently rubs up against, making your day-to-day life a little more comfortable. Some seborrheic keratosis growths also tend to be a little itchy, and can be a nuisance to the people that have them.
Want to have a seborrheic keratosis growth removed, or interested in finding out if your mole is actually a case of seborrheic keratoses? Contact our Worcester or Chelmsford offices today to schedule an appointment.
