At our CQC-registered dermatology clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team can assess a growth, confirm what it is and, if you wish, remove it. Patients travel to us from across Kent, including Canterbury, Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover and Deal, for reassurance and a clear recommendation.
About the Condition
Seborrhoeic keratoses are waxy, scaly or warty looking growths, often described as looking “stuck on” to the skin. They are extremely common, can appear almost anywhere on the body except the palms and soles, and are not caused by sun exposure. They are not skin cancer, although they can sometimes be mistaken for other lesions.
Common features include:
- A waxy, scaly or warty looking growth
- A stuck on appearance, as though it could be picked off
- Colour ranging from light tan to dark brown or black
- A gradual increase in number with age
- Occasional irritation if the growth catches on clothing
The exact cause is not fully understood. They become more common with age and often run in families, and new ones can appear over time as part of normal skin ageing.
Because a seborrhoeic keratosis can occasionally look similar to other skin lesions, including pigmented marks (see our page on pigmented lesions) and the rough patches of actinic keratosis, an accurate diagnosis from a dermatology specialist gives you certainty about what you have. Many people find this reassurance is all they need, and choose to leave the growth alone. Others prefer removal, particularly for growths on the face, neck or under the bra strap or waistband, where they catch or rub.
How We Treat It
Treatment starts with an assessment by one of our Consultant Dermatologists, who can usually confirm the diagnosis by examining the growth. Because these growths are benign, treatment is only needed if one is causing irritation or you would simply prefer it removed.
Cryotherapy, which freezes the growth, is a common option for smaller lesions. Larger or thicker growths may be better suited to a different removal technique, and your clinician will explain which is most suitable for you. After cryotherapy there may be some temporary redness or a small area of lighter skin, which usually settles over time. Individual results vary. Any tissue removed surgically is sent for histology as standard, with the cost included.
Cryotherapy is priced by the number of lesions treated, and our team will confirm the cost at your consultation. If you have other growths of concern, our mole check service offers a full skin examination.
When to See a Specialist
Most seborrhoeic keratoses need no treatment, but it is worth having any new or unusual growth checked if you are not certain what it is. This is particularly important if a growth is changing, growing quickly, bleeding or looks different from a typical stuck on, waxy growth.
Book a consultation if a growth is irritated, keeps catching on clothing or jewellery, or affects your confidence. A growth that bleeds without cause, does not heal or changes quickly should be seen promptly. If you are worried, call us for a swift appointment.
Further reading: DermNet – Seborrhoeic keratosis · British Association of Dermatologists
Frequently Asked Questions
Are seborrhoeic keratoses dangerous?
No, they are benign and are not linked to skin cancer. Removal is a matter of comfort or preference rather than medical necessity in almost all cases.
Can they be mistaken for something more serious?
Occasionally a seborrhoeic keratosis can look similar to other skin lesions, which is why a proper assessment by our team is worthwhile if you are ever unsure.
How are they removed?
Cryotherapy is commonly used for smaller growths, while larger or thicker ones may be better suited to a different technique, which your clinician will discuss with you.
Will removal leave a mark?
There may be some temporary redness or a small area of lighter skin after cryotherapy, which usually settles over time. Your clinician will explain what to expect for your growth.
Do seborrhoeic keratoses come back after removal?
The treated growth itself should not return, though it is common to develop new ones elsewhere over time, as this is a normal part of skin ageing.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with us, and we accept all major private medical insurers.
Get your concern assessed
First step
Specialty Doctor £250, Consultant Dermatologist £300
Appointment
30 minutes
Availability
Usually within 1 to 2 weeks
Consultant Dermatologist appointments are booked by phone or email, so we can check whether you are insured or self-funding.
Treatments for seborrhoeic keratosis
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