Seborrheic KeratosisSeborrheic Keratosis

Seborrheic keratosis is among the most common benign skin growths. It appears from middle age onward, typically in multiples after age 50, and the number tends to increase with time. The classic growth is round or oval, waxy or rough, and looks stuck onto the skin rather than growing from it. Color ranges from light tan through dark brown and black. Seborrheic keratoses favor the face, chest, shoulders, and back, but can appear almost anywhere except the palms and soles. They are harmless and not contagious, but they can closely resemble warts, precancerous lesions, and sometimes melanoma. For that reason, a growth should not be removed at home or by anyone who has not first ruled out cancer. Dr. Julia Tzu examines each lesion and uses dermoscopy when its appearance is not clear-cut. She also holds board certification in dermatopathology if tissue requires microscopic examination. Once the diagnosis is settled, removal may use hyfrecation, laser, or shave removal, with the choice determined mostly by the lesion's thickness.

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

• 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]

• 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

• Any new skin growth, so that it can be confirmed as benign rather than assumed to be
• A growth turned irritated, bleeding, or sore
• A growth changing in color, size, or shape
• Many new growths appearing over a short period, which occasionally warrants a broader evaluation
• Uncertainty about whether a lesion is a seborrheic keratosis or something that needs treating
• Cosmetic concern, particularly on the face and neck
• A growth that catches on clothing, a collar, or a bra strap and keeps getting knocked

Have questions about seborrheic keratosis? Our team is here to help.

• 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

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

• 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

1. What are the symptoms of Seborrheic Keratosis?
2. When should you seek care for Seborrheic Keratosis?
3. What causes Seborrheic Keratosis?
4. How is Seborrheic Keratosis treated?
5. Prognosis
6. FAQs
7. Sources

This article draws from 5 peer-reviewed sources.

• [1] Mayo Clinic – Seborrheic Keratosis Symptoms and Causes
• [2] Mayo Clinic – Seborrheic Keratosis Diagnosis and Treatment
• [3] Cleveland Clinic – Seborrheic Keratosis

• [4] AAD – Seborrheic Keratoses Diagnosis and Treatment
• [5] AAD – Seborrheic Keratoses Overview

Medically reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu , MD, FAAD, FACMS · Last reviewed: 2026-08-31