Seborrhoeic keratosis on the scalp: what to know

These growths can look tan, brown, grey or nearly black. Their surface may be smooth, scaly, waxy or uneven, and they can appear to sit on top of the skin. A scalp location can make them harder to inspect, especially beneath thick hair. Irritation from brushing, helmets or hair products may cause tenderness, crusting or a small amount of bleeding. Appearance alone cannot reliably distinguish a benign growth from another lesion, so a clinician may examine it closely and decide whether testing is needed.

Do not pick, shave or burn the growth at home. Take a clear photograph with a size reference and note whether its outline, colour, thickness or symptoms change. Use gentle hair care around it and avoid scraping it with a comb. If removal is appropriate, a dermatologist may discuss cryotherapy, curettage and cautery, or electrosurgery. The choice depends on the growth’s appearance, thickness, position and whether a sample is needed.

Arrange a prompt skin assessment if the lesion is new and unusual, changes quickly, repeatedly bleeds, develops a persistent sore or becomes painful without clear irritation. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure, or for spreading redness, warmth, swelling or pus suggesting infection.

Ask whether the appearance is typical, whether dermoscopy or a biopsy is needed, which removal option best protects the scalp, and how to care for the area while it heals.