Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a common, benign skin growth. These lesions appear as distinctive patches, often described as having a “stuck-on” appearance. While harmless, their unique characteristics often lead individuals to seek more information about them.
Understanding Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratoses are skin growths that arise from keratinocytes, cells of the outer skin layer. They appear as round or oval, waxy, or scaly bumps, ranging in color from light tan to brown or black. They vary in size, from tiny spots to over an inch across. They can appear anywhere, commonly on the face, scalp, chest, and back.
The prevalence of seborrheic keratoses increases with age, commonly appearing in middle adulthood and increasing with age. Over 90% of adults aged 60+ are estimated to have at least one seborrheic keratosis. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, genetic predisposition and sun exposure are thought to play a role in their development. These growths are harmless and not contagious.
Do Seborrheic Keratoses Fall Off Naturally?
Seborrheic keratoses do not fall off on their own as part of a natural life cycle. However, they can become dislodged or detach due to external factors such as friction, trauma, or irritation. Rubbing against clothing, accidental scratching, or picking can cause these growths to flake, crumble, or be partially torn away.
When such trauma occurs, the seborrheic keratosis may separate from the skin. This is due to the growth’s superficial nature, often described as appearing “pasted on” the skin’s surface. The underlying cells that form the growth remain, meaning that while a portion may detach, the potential for regrowth in the same area exists. The benign nature of these growths means that such accidental dislodgement does not indicate a more serious underlying condition.
What Happens After a Seborrheic Keratosis Falls Off?
If a seborrheic keratosis is dislodged, the immediate aftermath can involve bleeding and scab formation. The affected area may appear raw or irritated, similar to a minor skin wound. The healing process involves the formation of new skin cells to replace the damaged tissue.
Proper wound care after dislodgement is important to prevent complications. Keeping the area clean with mild soap and water, and applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly and a non-stick bandage, can aid healing. It is important to avoid picking at the scab to prevent infection and potential scarring. A key consideration is that the seborrheic keratosis may grow back in the same spot, as the basal cells responsible for its formation are still present in the skin.
Professional Removal and When to Seek Medical Advice
While seborrheic keratoses are benign and do not require treatment, many individuals opt for professional removal for cosmetic reasons or if the growths become irritated by clothing or jewelry. Common professional removal methods include:
Cryotherapy, which freezes the growth with liquid nitrogen.
Electrocautery, using an electrical current to burn off the growth.
Curettage, where the growth is scraped away.
Laser therapy.
Shave excisions, offering precise removal with good cosmetic outcomes.
Consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis before considering any removal. This is especially important if a skin growth changes in appearance, size, or color, or if it bleeds, itches, or grows rapidly, as these could be signs of more serious conditions like skin cancer. Attempting to self-remove seborrheic keratoses is not recommended due to the risks of infection, scarring, and misdiagnosis. A healthcare professional can accurately identify the growth and recommend the safest and most effective treatment approach if removal is desired.