Seborrheic Keratosis Removal in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Seborrheic keratoses are common, noncancerous skin growths that often appear as waxy, “stuck-on” brown spots as we age. While they are harmless, they can become irritated, catch on clothing, or simply be unwanted. At HK Dermatology in San Juan Capistrano, CA , our team confirms the diagnosis, rules out more serious conditions, and offers quick, effective removal options.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Seborrheic Keratosis?
Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a benign skin growth made up of overgrown surface skin cells. These growths usually appear after age 40 and tend to increase in number with age. They often run in families, and while sun exposure may play a role, they can also appear on skin that rarely sees the sun. SKs are not contagious, are not caused by a virus, and do not turn into cancer.
Despite being harmless, seborrheic keratoses can look alarming. Their dark color and irregular shape sometimes resemble melanoma, which is why any new or changing growth should be examined by a dermatology provider.
What Seborrheic Keratoses Look Like
- Waxy, scaly, or slightly raised growths with a “stuck-on” appearance, as if a drop of candle wax was placed on the skin
- Colors ranging from light tan to brown or black
- Round or oval shapes from a few millimeters to more than an inch across
- A rough, warty, or crumbly surface
- Single growths or clusters, most often on the chest, back, shoulders, face, and scalp
SKs are usually painless, but they can become itchy, irritated, or bleed when rubbed by clothing, jewelry, or bra straps.
Seborrheic Keratosis vs. Other Skin Growths
SKs are often confused with other spots. Actinic keratoses are rough, precancerous patches caused by sun damage and should be treated. Atypical moles, or dysplastic nevi, need monitoring. Warts are caused by a virus and can spread. Certain skin cancers, including melanoma and basal cell carcinoma, can look similar to SKs. A professional skin exam is the only reliable way to know the difference, and if there is any doubt, a quick biopsy provides a definite answer.
Treatment and Removal Options
Because seborrheic keratoses are benign, treatment is not required. Many patients choose removal when growths are irritated, bleeding, itchy, or cosmetically bothersome. Options at HK Dermatology include:
- Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen freezes the growth, which then crusts and falls off within a few weeks.
- Curettage: The growth is gently scraped away after the area is numbed.
- Electrodesiccation: A small electric current removes thin growths, sometimes combined with curettage.
- Shave removal: Raised growths can be shaved flat and sent for testing if needed.
Flat brown spots and overall uneven tone caused by sun exposure may respond better to an IPL photofacial, chemical peels, or fractional laser resurfacing. Removal of SKs for cosmetic reasons is generally not covered by insurance, while removal of irritated or bleeding growths may be. Explore our medical dermatology services, the complete list of conditions we treat, or our skin cancer care.
Seborrheic Keratosis FAQs
Are seborrheic keratoses cancerous?
No. Seborrheic keratoses are benign growths and do not turn into cancer. However, some skin cancers can look similar, so new or changing spots should be checked.
What causes seborrheic keratosis?
The exact cause is unknown. SKs are strongly linked to aging and genetics, and they often run in families. They are not contagious.
Can I remove a seborrheic keratosis at home?
No. Picking, scratching, or cutting off a growth can cause bleeding, infection, and scarring, and you could miss a skin cancer that looks similar. Removal should be done by a professional.
Does removal leave a scar?
Most removal methods leave little to no scarring. Some patients may have a temporary light or dark spot that fades over time.
Will seborrheic keratoses come back after removal?
A treated growth rarely returns in the same spot, but new SKs commonly develop over time.
Is seborrheic keratosis removal covered by insurance?
Cosmetic removal is usually not covered. Removal of growths that are irritated, inflamed, or bleeding may be considered medically necessary. See our insurance page for details.
How do I know if a growth is a seborrheic keratosis?
A dermatology provider can usually identify an SK during an exam. If there is any uncertainty, a quick biopsy confirms the diagnosis.
Get Peace of Mind About Your Skin Growths
Have a growth checked and removed by an experienced team. Call HK Dermatology at (949) 248-1632 or request an appointment online in San Juan Capistrano, CA .
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