What should you know about removing seborrheic keratosis from the face?

Seborrheic keratoses are usually well-defined, rough or waxy growths that can look stuck onto the skin. They may be tan, brown, or darker. Their texture and colour can overlap with other lesions, so a clinician may need to examine a new, irritated, or unusual spot before removal.

Do not use wart remover, household acids, sharp tools, or freezing kits on facial skin. A clinician may offer cryotherapy, curettage and cautery, or electrosurgery, depending on the growth and its position. After treatment, follow the wound-care advice and protect healing skin from sun exposure to help limit lingering colour change.

Seek assessment if the growth changes quickly, develops uneven colour or border, bleeds, becomes persistently painful, or repeatedly forms a crust. Get prompt help for increasing swelling, pus, spreading redness, or significant facial pain after an attempted home treatment.

Ask how confident the diagnosis is, whether the tissue needs closer examination, which removal method is appropriate for your facial location, and what temporary redness, crusting, or pigment change to expect. Ask how to care for the area and when to report a problem.