“Barnacles on the skin” is a common phrase used to describe seborrheic keratoses, which are benign skin growths. These growths are a frequent occurrence, particularly as individuals age.
Understanding Seborrheic Keratoses
Seborrheic keratoses are characterized by their distinctive appearance, often described as looking “stuck-on” to the skin. They can be flat or raised, varying in size from a millimeter to several centimeters in diameter. Their colors range widely, including skin-toned, yellow, grey, light brown, dark brown, or black, and they may exhibit mixed hues. These growths can have diverse textures, appearing smooth, waxy, or warty. They commonly develop on areas like the face, chest, back, and scalp.
These growths are benign and do not spread. They generally do not require medical treatment unless they become irritated or are a cosmetic concern.
Factors Contributing to Their Appearance
The precise cause of seborrheic keratoses is not fully understood, but several factors are associated with their development. Age is a prominent factor, with their incidence increasing significantly after middle age; over 90% of adults aged 65 and older are believed to have at least one. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, as a tendency to develop a large number of these growths can be inherited within families.
While not a direct cause, sun exposure may influence their occurrence, as they often appear in sun-exposed areas. Additionally, friction or irritation in skin folds might contribute to their formation in some cases. Seborrheic keratoses are not caused by viruses or bacteria and are not contagious.
Approaches for Home Management
Anecdotal home remedies often include substances like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, or hydrogen peroxide. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of these home treatments. Attempting to remove these growths at home carries significant risks.
Self-treatment can lead to skin irritation, inflammation, infection, or scarring. A more serious concern is misdiagnosis, as certain types of skin cancer can resemble seborrheic keratoses. Therefore, self-removal attempts are not recommended due to these complications and the importance of a professional diagnosis.
Medical Removal Procedures
When removal is desired, dermatologists employ several medical procedures. Cryotherapy, a widely used method, involves freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen, causing it to blister and fall off within days or weeks. Shave excision is another common technique where the growth is shaved off the skin using a surgical blade.
Electrocautery uses an electrical current to burn off the growth, often combined with curettage, which involves scraping away remaining tissue. Laser therapy offers an alternative by using focused light energy to destroy the growth. These procedures are performed by qualified medical professionals, ensuring proper technique and minimizing risks.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Seek professional medical advice if a skin growth changes in appearance, size, shape, or color. A visit to a healthcare provider is also warranted if a growth starts to bleed, itch, or becomes painful. These changes could indicate a more serious underlying skin condition.
Professional diagnosis is crucial to differentiate seborrheic keratoses from other skin conditions, including skin cancer like melanoma, which can sometimes look similar. A dermatologist can accurately assess the growth, performing a biopsy if necessary, to ensure proper identification and recommend appropriate management.