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 keratoses, which are small, harmless brown growths. While these growths are never cancerous, many 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 a Seborrheic Keratosis?
A seborrheic keratosis is a 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 they 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 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 keratoses can appear on areas of the body rarely exposed to the sun.
One aspect of seborrheic keratosis that research confirms 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.
Symptoms and How to Identify Seborrheic Keratoses
Seborrheic keratoses often have a distinct appearance that sets them apart from other skin growths. They typically begin as small, slightly raised bumps and gradually thicken over time.
These growths are often described as having a “stuck-on” look, as if they are sitting on top of the skin rather than growing from within it. Their texture can range from smooth and waxy to rough and wart-like.
Common seborrheic keratosis characteristics include:
- Tan, brown or black coloration
- A round or oval shape
- A waxy, scaly or slightly crumbly surface
- Occurrence on the face, chest, back, shoulders or scalp
Seborrheic Keratosis vs. Other Skin Growths
Seborrheic keratoses can sometimes resemble other common skin growths, which is why professional evaluation is important. While they are benign, distinguishing them from other conditions helps you get appropriate care.
Moles (Nevi)
Moles tend to be smoother and grow from within the skin, rather than appearing “stuck on” like seborrheic keratoses. They may also have a more uniform color and shape.
Skin Tags
Skin tags are soft, flesh-colored growths that often hang from the skin by a small stalk. Unlike seborrheic keratoses, they are usually not rough or waxy in texture.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratoses are considered precancerous and often appear as rough, scaly patches caused by sun damage. They typically feel more like dry skin than raised growths.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can vary widely in appearance. Irregular borders, uneven color, and changes over time are key warning signs that require immediate evaluation.
Because these conditions can overlap in appearance, a dermatology visit is the most reliable way to determine exactly what you are seeing on your skin.
Can Seborrheic Keratoses Be Removed?
While seborrheic keratosis growths can be removed, they do not have to be excised for medical reasons. This is because seborrheic keratoses are entirely harmless and always non-cancerous.
Although harmless, many patients desire to have these removed for aesthetic or comfort reasons. 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 after they’re removed. Some seborrheic keratosis growths also tend to be a little itchy and can be a nuisance for people who have them.
When to See a Dermatologist
Although seborrheic keratoses are harmless, it is still important to have any new or changing skin growth evaluated by a qualified dermatologist. Many benign skin conditions can closely resemble more serious concerns, making a professional diagnosis essential for peace of mind and proper care.
You should schedule an appointment if you notice:
- Rapid growth or the sudden appearance of multiple lesions
- Changes in color, shape, size or texture
- Bleeding, crusting, itching or persistent irritation
- A growth that looks noticeably different from others on your skin
In some cases, skin cancers such as melanoma or basal cell carcinoma can mimic the appearance of benign growths. A thorough skin evaluation allows us to accurately identify the lesion and determine whether any further testing or treatment is needed.
Routine skin checks are beneficial, especially for patients with multiple growths or a history of sun exposure. Early evaluation helps ensure that any concerning changes are addressed promptly while giving you confidence in your skin health.
Treatment Options for Seborrheic Keratosis Removal
At Worcester Dermatology Associates and Chelmsford Dermatology Associates, seborrheic keratoses can be safely removed using a variety of in-office techniques. The most appropriate method depends on the size, thickness and location of the growth, as well as your overall skin goals.
Common treatment options include:
Cryotherapy
One of the most commonly used treatments, cryotherapy involves applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the growth. The treated lesion gradually falls off as the skin heals.
Curettage
This technique uses a specialized instrument to gently remove the growth from the skin’s surface. It is often performed after the area has been numbed for comfort.
Electrocautery
A controlled electrical current is used to remove the growth and minimize bleeding. This method is frequently combined with curettage for more precise results.
Laser Therapy
Laser-based treatments can target and break down the growth while minimizing the impact on surrounding tissue. This option may be recommended for certain lesions or for patients interested in overall skin rejuvenation.
We will evaluate your skin and recommend the most effective approach to achieve smooth, natural-looking results.
Benefits of Seborrheic Keratosis Removal
While seborrheic keratoses are medically harmless, removing them can offer meaningful improvements in both comfort and appearance. For many patients, treatment is less about necessity and more about feeling confident in their skin.
Key benefits include:
- Smoother, more even skin texture
- Improved appearance in visible areas
- Reduced irritation from clothing or friction
- Relief from itching or discomfort
- Peace of mind from professional evaluation and diagnosis
Together, these benefits make seborrheic keratosis removal a simple way to support your skin health and overall confidence.
How Seborrheic Keratoses Are Diagnosed
Seborrheic keratoses are typically diagnosed through a clinical skin examination. In most cases, an experienced dermatologist can identify these growths based on their appearance, texture and location on the skin’s surface.
To take a closer look, your provider may use a dermatoscope, a specialized tool that allows for detailed visualization of the skin. This helps confirm the diagnosis and distinguish seborrheic keratoses from other types of lesions.
In rare situations where a growth appears atypical or uncertain, a small sample may be taken for further evaluation. This ensures that any concerning features are properly assessed and that you receive an accurate diagnosis.
What to Expect During Seborrheic Keratosis Treatment
Understanding the treatment process can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your care. Seborrheic keratosis removal is a simple, in-office procedure designed to be both efficient and well-tolerated.
Before Your Appointment
Your visit will begin with a thorough skin evaluation to confirm that the growth is a seborrheic keratosis. We will review your medical history, assess the size and location of the lesion, and recommend the most appropriate removal method, such as cryotherapy, curettage or electrocautery.
During Treatment
Treatment is typically quick and performed in a comfortable office setting. Depending on the approach, the growth may be frozen with liquid nitrogen, gently removed with a specialized instrument, or treated with controlled heat.
Most patients experience only mild, brief discomfort during the procedure. A local numbing agent may be used when needed to enhance comfort, especially for thicker or more sensitive areas.
After Treatment
Following treatment, your skin may appear slightly red or irritated, and a small scab may form as the area begins to heal. These effects are temporary and part of the normal healing process. Most patients can expect:
- Mild redness or sensitivity for a few days
- Temporary scabbing or crusting
- Gradual healing over one to two weeks
You can typically return to your normal routine the same day. Keeping the area clean, avoiding picking, and protecting your skin from sun exposure will help support smooth, even healing.
Cost of Seborrheic Keratosis Removal
The cost of removing seborrheic keratoses depends on a few key factors, including how many growths you’d like treated, their size and where they’re located on the body. Because each case is different, treatment is typically tailored rather than priced as a one-size-fits-all service.
For example, a single, small lesion may be addressed quickly in one visit, while multiple or thicker growths may require more time or a combination of techniques. The method used, whether that’s freezing, gentle removal or heat-based treatment, can also affect overall pricing.
Since these growths are benign, removal is often considered cosmetic. During your consultation, we’ll walk you through your options and provide a clear breakdown of costs based on your personalized treatment plan.
Candidates for Seborrheic Keratosis Removal
Seborrheic keratosis removal is a suitable option for adults seeking to improve their skin’s appearance or address growths that cause irritation or discomfort. While these lesions are benign and do not require medical treatment, many patients choose to have them removed for cosmetic or practical reasons.
Ideal candidates are in good overall health, have realistic expectations and are looking for a simple, nonsurgical solution to remove unwanted skin growths. Treatment may be appropriate for individuals with growths on visible areas such as the face, neck or chest, as well as areas prone to friction from clothing.
During your consultation, we will examine your skin, confirm the diagnosis and determine whether removal is the right option for you. Our goal is to provide safe, effective treatment that supports your skin health and your overall self-confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seborrheic Keratoses
Will removing seborrheic keratoses leave a scar?
In most cases, removal heals very well with minimal to no noticeable scarring. The skin may appear slightly lighter or darker in the treated area at first, especially for patients with more pigmented skin tones, but this typically evens out over time. Following aftercare instructions and protecting the area from sun exposure can help support smoother healing and reduce the risk of long-term marks.
How long does it take to heal after removal?
Healing time depends on the size and depth of the treated growth, but most areas begin to improve within a few days and continue healing over one to two weeks. Larger or thicker lesions may take a bit longer. During this time, it is normal for the area to form a small scab before gradually resolving as new skin develops underneath.
Can multiple growths be treated in one visit?
Yes, many patients choose to have several seborrheic keratoses treated during the same appointment. The number of lesions addressed will depend on their size, location and your comfort level. Treating multiple areas at once can be an efficient way to achieve more uniform results across the skin.
Are there any side effects after treatment?
Side effects are generally mild and temporary. You may notice redness, slight swelling or sensitivity in the treated area immediately after the procedure. In some cases, there may be temporary changes in skin pigmentation. These effects typically resolve on their own as the skin heals.
Do seborrheic keratoses continue to develop over time?
Yes, it is common for new seborrheic keratoses to develop over time, particularly as part of the natural aging process. Removing existing growths does not prevent new ones from forming, but any new lesions can be evaluated and treated as needed during future visits.
Why Choose Worcester Dermatology Associates and Chelmsford Dermatology Associates for Seborrheic Keratosis Removal?
Seborrheic keratosis removal at Worcester Dermatology Associates and Chelmsford Dermatology Associates is performed by experienced, board-certified dermatologists with a strong background in medical and cosmetic skin care. Dr. Seth Kates and Dr. A. David Simkin bring a careful, detail-oriented approach to diagnosing and treating a wide range of skin growths, ensuring each lesion is properly evaluated before removal.
Treatment is provided in a clinical setting where safety, accuracy, and patient comfort are the priority. Because seborrheic keratoses can vary in size, thickness and location, each removal method is selected based on the growth’s specific characteristics and your overall skin type.
Care is never standardized. Every treatment plan is developed with attention to skin health and cosmetic outcome, to achieve smooth, natural-looking results. From your initial consultation through post-treatment care, the focus remains on clear communication, thoughtful technique, and a high standard of dermatologic care.
Clear, Comfortable Skin Starts With the Right Evaluation
Seborrheic keratoses are common, but that does not mean they have to be something you simply live with. Whether you are looking to improve your skin’s appearance, reduce irritation or have a new growth professionally evaluated, expert care can make the process simple and reassuring.
At Worcester Dermatology Associates and Chelmsford Dermatology Associates, every patient receives individualized attention and a treatment plan designed around their specific needs. With a focus on accurate diagnosis, effective removal techniques, and natural-looking results, our team is here to support your long-term skin health.
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.
