What to know about dermatosis papulosa nigra in skin of colour

Dermatosis papulosa nigra, or DPN, appears as multiple small, smooth, brown or black bumps. They commonly develop on the cheeks, temples, forehead, neck or upper chest and may increase gradually over time. DPN is a benign skin growth and is not caused by dirt or poor skincare.

A clinician should confirm the diagnosis before removal because moles, seborrhoeic keratoses and other pigmented lesions can look similar. A bump that changes quickly, bleeds, crusts, becomes painful or differs from the others deserves examination rather than cosmetic treatment.

DPN does not need treatment unless it catches on clothing, becomes irritated or bothers you cosmetically. A dermatologist may discuss electrosurgery, curettage, cryotherapy or laser-based removal, depending on the size, number and location of bumps.

In skin of colour, any injury can leave darker or lighter marks, and some procedures can cause texture change or scarring. Ask about conservative settings, treating a small test area, wound care and sun protection. Do not cut, burn or apply household acids to the bumps.

Book a medical review for a new solitary lesion, a bump that changes in colour or shape, spontaneous bleeding, persistent crusting, pain or rapid growth. These features do not prove a serious diagnosis, but they mean the lesion should be assessed before removal.

After a procedure, contact the clinic for increasing redness, warmth, pus, worsening pain, delayed healing or a spreading dark or pale patch. Seek urgent help for severe swelling, breathing difficulty or eye symptoms after treatment near the face.

Ask how confident the diagnosis is, which removal method suits your skin and lesion pattern, and how pigment change or scarring will be managed. Clarify whether a test area, staged treatment and follow-up examination are appropriate.