February 26, 2026

Managing Seborrheic Keratosis and When To Seek Medical Advice

Seborrheic keratosis is a noncancerous skin growth, and it typically appears in middle-aged and older adults. These growths have a waxy, scaly, and slightly raised appearance, and they can vary in color from light tan to black. While they are harmless, understanding when to monitor them and when to consult a professional is a practical step. Here is more information about managing this condition and when medical advice is needed:

Noncancerous Tumors

Seborrheic keratoses are benign tumors, which means they are not cancerous and will not become cancerous. These growths originate from specific cells in the outer layer of the skin, and they typically increase in number as people get older. Their appearance can vary greatly, from small, rough bumps to larger, wart-like growths.

A single growth might develop, or you might notice several over time on the chest, back, stomach, scalp, face, or neck. They are not contagious, so you cannot spread them to other parts of your body or to other people. Although they may look concerning, especially if they are dark, they are not a form of melanoma.

Multiple Growths

Discovering multiple growths over a short period may be unexpected, and a sudden eruption of many seborrheic keratoses is a potential issue. While the growths themselves are harmless, this rare sign could indicate an underlying internal health issue. Consulting with a healthcare provider helps determine if further evaluation is needed.

These growths can sometimes become irritated by clothing or jewelry. These might cause them to itch or bleed. If one or more seborrheic keratoses are regularly inflamed, a medical professional can assess them. Many people have multiple growths, and they typically do not require any treatment.

It is helpful to keep track of any new spots on your skin. People may develop more seborrheic keratoses as they age, and this is typically a normal process. Documenting changes helps you provide accurate information to your doctor during a skin check.

Sudden Change in Size

Observing a sudden change in the size or shape of a seborrheic keratosis is a reason to seek medical advice. Growths that change rapidly are sometimes difficult to distinguish from skin cancer through visual inspection alone. A dermatologist can perform a thorough examination to provide an accurate diagnosis. Any growth that grows quickly warrants a professional opinion.

Various Removal Techniques

If a seborrheic keratosis becomes bothersome or you wish to remove it for cosmetic reasons, several removal techniques are available. These procedures are typically performed in a doctor’s office, and a healthcare professional will help you understand your options. Your options for removal of this type of growth might include:

Cryosurgery (freezing)
Electrosurgery (burning)
Curettage (scraping)

While these removal techniques are generally safe and effective, the choice of procedure typically depends on factors such as the size, location, and appearance of the growth. This also involves your personal preferences and medical history, which should always be discussed with your healthcare provider to lead to an ideal outcome.

Treat a Seborrheic Keratosis

While seborrheic keratoses are benign, distinguishing them from other skin conditions requires expertise. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possibilities, keeping you adequately informed. If you have noticed new or changing spots on your skin, professional guidance is available. Schedule a consultation with a dermatology specialist to discuss your skin and receive a personalized assessment.