Seborrheic Keratosis

3 min read·Last updated: 2026-02-08·Reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu, MD, FAAD, FACMS

At a Glance

Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common benign (non-cancerous) skin growths, typically appearing in middle age and increasing in number as people get older. These growths have a characteristic "stuck-on" or waxy appearance and can range in color from light tan to dark brown or black. While they may resemble warts, pre-cancerous growths, or even skin cancer, seborrheic keratoses are harmless. They most commonly appear on the face, chest, shoulders, and back, though they can develop almost anywhere except the palms and soles. Treatment is optional but available if the growths become irritated or are cosmetically bothersome.

Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common benign skin growths, especially after age 50[3]
These growths have a characteristic 'stuck-on' appearance and are not cancerous[1]
Seborrheic keratoses tend to run in families, suggesting a genetic component[3]
Removed growths typically don't return, though new ones may develop elsewhere[2]

Symptoms

Round or oval waxy or rough bump
Stuck-on or pasted-on appearance
Flat or slightly raised with warty surface
Color ranging from light tan to brown to black
Size varying from small to over 1 inch across
Slightly elevated border
May appear alone or in clusters
Can become itchy, especially if irritated by clothing

When to Seek Professional Care

Any new skin growth to confirm it's not cancer
Growth that becomes irritated, bleeds, or is painful
Many new growths appearing suddenly
Growth that changes in color, size, or shape
Uncertainty about whether a growth is seborrheic keratosis
Cosmetic concerns about appearance

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Causes

Exact cause unknown
Genetic tendency (runs in families)
Age-related skin changes
Not caused by sun exposure (unlike actinic keratosis)
Not contagious or caused by virus

How We Can Help

We offer a service to help manage this condition: Laser Treatment.

Prognosis

Excellent prognosis as these are benign
Growths don't become cancerous
Typically don't return after removal, especially if small
New seborrheic keratoses may develop elsewhere
Skin may be lighter in removal area (usually fades)
No treatment needed unless bothersome

Frequently Asked Questions

What is seborrheic keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a common benign skin growth that typically appears in multiplicity after age 50. These growths have a waxy, "stuck-on" appearance and range in color from tan to dark brown. They're not cancerous and not contagious. They commonly appear on the face, chest, shoulders, and back.

Are seborrheic keratoses dangerous?

Seborrheic keratoses are not dangerous. They are benign growths that don't become cancerous. However, they can look similar to skin cancer, so it's important to have any new skin growth examined by a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis and rule out concerning conditions.

When should I see a doctor about a seborrheic keratosis?

See a dermatologist for any new skin growth to confirm it's not skin cancer. Also seek evaluation if a growth becomes irritated, bleeds, changes in appearance, or if many new growths appear suddenly. A dermatologist can quickly differentiate seborrheic keratoses from concerning lesions.

How are seborrheic keratoses removed?

Common removal methods include cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), electrocautery (burning), and curettage (scraping). Shave removal and laser treatment are also options. The choice depends on the size, location, and number of growths. Treatment is optional since these are benign.

Do seborrheic keratoses come back after removal?

Individual seborrheic keratoses typically don't return once removed. However, if you're prone to developing them, new ones may appear in different locations over time. The skin where one was removed may temporarily appear lighter than surrounding skin.

How can I tell if it's seborrheic keratosis or skin cancer?

It can be difficult to distinguish seborrheic keratosis from skin cancer without professional evaluation. Seborrheic keratoses typically have a waxy, "stuck-on" appearance with well-defined borders. However, any new or changing skin growth should be examined by a dermatologist to rule out melanoma or other skin cancers.

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