Seborrheic Keratosis (SK) can be known as seborrhoeic warts and basal cell papillomas. They are benign growths caused by a build-up of skin cells. SK are harmless, and often appear as brown or black, growths on the skin. More than half the men and more than a third of women in the UK have at least one SK. By the age of 40, 30% of the population are affected while by the age of 70 it increases to 75%. They are also found in younger people. The number of SK varies from person to person.

No, Seborrheic Keratosis are not infectious

It is highly important that we protect our skin from the harmful UVA rays of the sun. Lack of protection from the sun can lead skin cancer in men and women. Although Seborrheic Keratosis does not lead directly to cancer, any signs of SK should be acknowledged and either removed by a skin specialist, such as Skin Revision, or at the very least be covered as much as possible whilst outdoors in the sun.

Seborrheic Keratosis are nothing to do with sebaceous (oil) glands or viral warts. It is unknown what causes them, although prolonged exposure to sunlight is highly probable.

Seborrheic Keratosis are harmless, and usually do not cause symptoms. They can sometimes itch, become red and sore, and catch on clothing. Many people dislike the look of them, particularly when they occur on their faces.

Seborrhoeic Keratosis have a rough surface. They have a colour from pink to black. They can affect anyone, but on dark-skinned people they can also appear as a lot of small dark brown or black bumps. It is common for them to appear on the face and the neck (this is called Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra).

Small flat Seborrhoeic Keratosis can often become more raised and larger as the years go by. Their size varies from less than one centimetre to several centimetres across.

Seborrhoeic Keratosis are most common on the head and neck. The numbers vary and one person may have just one Seborrhoeic Keratosis whilst others may have many. Once present, they generally remain and new ones may appear over the years.

Seborrhoeic Keratosis can look similar to a Melanoma. It is therefore important that either your general practitioner or Dermatologist check over the lesion in order to make an accurate assesssment.

Seborrhoeic Keratosis can become a worry if they are red, itchy, sore or bleeding and so it is advisable to seek expert care from a Dermatologist in the UK

Seborrheic Keratosis (SK) can be known as seborrhoeic warts and basal cell papillomas. They are benign growths caused by a build-up of skin cells. SK are harmless, and often appear as brown or black, growths on the skin. More than half the men and more than a third of women in the UK have at least one SK. By the age of 40, 30% of the population are affected while by the age of 70 it increases to 75%. They are also found in younger people. The number of SK varies from person to person.