What is Seborrheic Keratosis? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
SkinChange.AI
Medical editorial team
Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common skin growths in adults over 50 — and one of the most misunderstood. Many people worry when they discover the brown, rough patches on their skin, but they are completely harmless.
In this article, we explain exactly what seborrheic keratosis is, what causes it, whether it is dangerous, and what you can do about it.
What is seborrheic keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis — also called senile warts or age warts — is a benign skin growth that develops in the epidermis (outer layer of skin). They are not contagious and have no connection to cancer. Their appearance varies, but they are typically easy to recognise: round or oval, with a clear border from the surrounding skin, as if they have been "stuck on".
They can appear alone or in clusters and grow slowly over time. Most people will develop at least one during their lifetime.
What does seborrheic keratosis look like?
Seborrheic keratosis can vary considerably in appearance:
- Colour: Brown, black or light tan — the colour can vary within the same growth.
- Texture: Rough, wart-like or waxy surface. They often feel slightly raised.
- Size: From a few millimetres to several centimetres in diameter.
- Location: Most often on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders — but can appear anywhere on the body except the palms and soles.
The "stuck on" appearance is characteristic and distinguishes seborrheic keratosis from, for example, moles, which sit deeper in the skin.
What causes seborrheic keratosis?
The exact cause is still unknown. It is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene or diet. Researchers point to several contributing factors:
Age
Seborrheic keratosis is almost exclusively a phenomenon in adults over 40–50 years of age. The older one gets, the more growths one may develop. It is extremely rare in young people.
Genetics
There is a clear hereditary tendency. If your parents had many seborrheic keratoses, the likelihood of you developing them yourself is significantly higher.
Sun exposure
Although sun exposure is not the direct cause, seborrheic keratosis is seen more frequently on sun-exposed areas of skin. UV radiation may contribute to triggering or worsening growth in predisposed individuals.
Who gets seborrheic keratosis?
Almost everyone will develop seborrheic keratosis at some point in their lives:
- Over 80% of adults over 60 have at least one seborrheic keratosis.
- The condition affects men and women equally.
- A family history significantly increases the risk.
Is seborrheic keratosis dangerous?
No. Seborrheic keratosis is benign and is not associated with skin cancer or other serious diseases. However, it is important to distinguish seborrheic keratosis from other skin changes that may require treatment. See a dermatologist if:
- A growth suddenly changes in size, shape or colour.
- The growth bleeds without cause.
- You are unsure whether it is seborrheic keratosis or something else.
Treatment options
Seborrheic keratosis does not typically require treatment. However, if a growth is bothersome — itches, rubs against clothing, or is cosmetically concerning — it can be effectively removed:
❄️ Cryotherapy (freezing)
Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze the growth away. Quick and effective — performed in the clinic.
🔪 Curettage (scraping)
The growth is scraped off with a surgical instrument under local anaesthesia.
💡 Laser therapy
Laser can be used to remove growths, particularly on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face.
🚫 Do not remove them yourself
Do not pick or scratch at the growths — this can cause bleeding, infection and scarring.
Daily skincare tips
- Use sun protection daily — even though sun exposure does not directly cause seborrheic keratosis, it protects against other sun-related skin problems.
- Moisturise regularly to reduce dryness and mild irritation.
- Monitor existing growths for changes and watch for new skin changes.
Medical classification: Seborrheic keratosis is classified as L82 in the WHO's International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10/ICD-11). It is characterised by benign, epidermal tumours, typically pigmented, with a wart-like surface.
Frequently asked questions
Can seborrheic keratosis go away on its own?
Rarely. Seborrheic keratosis does not usually disappear without treatment, but they are stable and pose no health risk. Many people choose to live with them.
Can I confuse seborrheic keratosis with skin cancer?
Yes, it can be difficult to distinguish visually — especially from melanoma. If you are in doubt, it is always better to get a professional assessment than to wait.
When should I contact a dermatologist?
Contact a dermatologist if a growth changes rapidly, bleeds, is asymmetric, has irregular borders or colour variation — these may be signs of something other than seborrheic keratosis.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a dermatologist for personal guidance.