What should you know about seborrheic wart removal at home?

Seborrheic keratosis is sometimes called an age wart or seborrheic wart because it can look like a stuck-on growth. It is not the same as a contagious viral wart. A raised, rough or pigmented spot can have several possible causes, so labels based on appearance are unreliable. Scraping, tying off or burning the area may create a wound before the diagnosis is clear.

Do not cut, freeze with an unregulated device, or apply acids to the growth. Keep it clean, avoid picking and protect it from clothing friction. Book a skin assessment if it is bothersome or you are unsure what it is. If removal is suitable, a clinician can explain the procedure, wound care and whether the tissue should be examined.

Seek prompt review if the spot changes quickly, bleeds without being knocked, develops uneven colours, becomes persistently painful or forms a sore that does not heal. If you have already tried to remove it, seek care for continuing bleeding, increasing warmth, pus, worsening swelling or spreading redness. These signs concern the wound and need attention regardless of the original label.

Ask whether the growth is a seborrheic keratosis or a viral wart, whether it needs dermoscopy or sampling, and which removal method suits its site. Mention any bleeding, repeated catching or product used at home.