Seborrhoeic Keratosis: What You Need to Know About These Common Skin Growths

Keywords: mole removal in Melbourne, sun spot removal in Melbourne

If you’ve ever noticed a new, brown, waxy-looking spot appear on your skin seemingly out of nowhere, you’re not alone. This might be a seborrhoeic keratosis—a harmless skin growth that’s incredibly common in adults over 50.

While non-cancerous, seborrhoeic keratoses often cause concern due to their appearance. At skin cancer clinics around Melbourne, these growths are among the most common reasons people seek reassurance or removal.

What Is Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

Seborrhoeic keratosis (also called seb k) is a benign skin lesion. It may look like a wart, a stuck-on scab, or a mole. It typically appears as a:

  • Brown, black or tan spot

  • Raised, rough or waxy texture

  • “Stuck-on” or slightly crusted surface

They can appear on the face, chest, back, shoulders or anywhere on the body—except the palms or soles.

Why Do They Appear?

These growths tend to multiply with age and are more common in fair-skinned people. The exact cause isn’t known, but they’re not contagious and are not related to skin cancer. Sun exposure may play a role, which is why people often confuse them with sun spots.

When to See a Doctor

Seborrhoeic keratoses are harmless, but you should see your doctor or a skin cancer clinic in Melbourne if:

  • A spot changes rapidly in size or colour

  • It becomes itchy, painful, or starts bleeding

  • You’re unsure whether it’s a benign lesion or something more serious like a melanoma

It’s especially important to rule out in situ melanoma or basal cell carcinoma, which can sometimes look similar.

Treatment Options

Treatment isn’t medically necessary, but many people choose to have seborrhoeic keratoses removed for cosmetic reasons or peace of mind. Options include:

1. Cryotherapy (Freezing with Liquid Nitrogen)

Quick and effective for small lesions. It may cause blistering or temporary skin lightening.

2. Shave Removal

The lesion is shaved off under local anaesthetic. Often used when there’s diagnostic uncertainty.

3. Curettage and Cautery

The growth is scraped away and the area cauterised to minimise bleeding.

Can It Come Back?

Once removed, seborrhoeic keratoses do not usually grow back in the same spot—but new ones may develop elsewhere. Some people are simply more prone to developing them.

Confused with Other Lesions?

Seborrhoeic keratoses are frequently mistaken for:

  • Warts

  • Sun spots (solar keratosis)

  • Moles

  • Skin cancers

That’s why accurate diagnosis at a Melbourne skin check clinic is so important. A dermatoscope or biopsy may be used if there’s any doubt.

Should I Get It Removed?

If the lesion is unsightly, bothersome, or causing anxiety, removal is a good option. Clinics that specialise in mole removal in Melbourne or sun spot removal in Melbourne are experienced in treating seborrhoeic keratoses safely and effectively.

Final Word

Seborrhoeic keratosis is a common, harmless skin growth that becomes more frequent with age. While not dangerous, any new or changing skin lesion should be assessed by a professional.

If you’re concerned about a skin spot, or simply want it removed for cosmetic reasons, book an appointment with a skin cancer clinic in Melbourne today. Peace of mind is only a consultation away.