What should you know about seborrheic keratosis removal at home?

A growth that looks like a seborrheic keratosis may be another type of lesion. Cutting or burning it can cause bleeding, infection, scarring and a wound that is difficult to assess. Over-the-counter wart products are not designed for every raised or pigmented growth and can irritate nearby healthy skin. A proper examination helps confirm what is being treated before any removal is chosen.

Leave the growth intact, reduce rubbing and take a clear photograph if you want to monitor visible change. Arrange an appointment with a dermatologist or qualified clinician, particularly if it is new, changing, itchy or repeatedly snagged. After assessment, removal may involve cryotherapy, curettage and cautery, or electrosurgery. Your clinician can explain wound care and whether the removed tissue needs further examination.

Arrange prompt review for spontaneous bleeding, rapid change, marked asymmetry, several colours, persistent crusting or a sore that fails to heal. Get urgent help if a home attempt has caused bleeding that will not stop with firm pressure, spreading redness, pus or severe pain. Do not continue applying products over damaged skin.

Ask how confident the clinician is in the diagnosis, whether the location changes the removal choice, how to protect the wound, and which warning signs mean you should contact the clinic. Tell them exactly what, if anything, has already been applied.