Seborrhoeic Keratosis

What are Seborrhoeic Keratosis?

Seborrhoeic keratoses are raised, warty growths on the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). They may appear stuck on the surface and can vary in colour from light to dark brown. Their texture is often rough or waxy. These lesions are also known as seborrhoeic warts or basal cell papillomas.

Common areas for seborrhoeic keratoses include:

• Face
• Scalp
• Chest
• Back

They are especially prevalent in those over 60. Some individuals may develop multiple lesions — occasionally more than 50 across the upper body. Other names used to describe these growths include Seborrhoeic Warts and Basal Cell Papillomas. They often appear alongside small red spots known as Campbell de Morgan spots.

Seborrhoeic Keratoses vs Melanoma: Understanding the Difference

It’s important to distinguish seborrhoeic keratoses vs melanoma, as the former are benign while the latter can be a form of skin cancer. Seborrhoeic keratoses:

• Do not develop into skin cancer
• Are not contagious
• Are often mistaken for melanoma due to their appearance

However, if a lesion changes rapidly, bleeds, or looks unusual, it’s always wise to seek a professional assessment to rule out malignancy.

Seborrhoeic Keratoses Causes

The exact cause of seborrhoeic keratoses is unknown. However, some contributing factors may include:

• Ageing – commonly appearing after the age of 40
• Genetics – they may run in families. If a parent or sibling has similar lesions, there is a higher likelihood you may develop them too.
• Sun exposure – may play a role, especially on sun-exposed areas

Do They Need Treatment?

No medical treatment is usually required, as seborrhoeic keratoses are completely benign and not contagious. However, they may be removed if they:

• Cause irritation or itching.
• Catch on clothing.
• Are located in cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face or neck.
• Cause embarrassment or cosmetic concern.

Moisturisers like E45 or Vaseline Intensive Care Lotion may relieve mild irritation. For persistently itchy lesions, your GP may prescribe a urea-based cream with mild steroid (e.g. Calmurid HC).

Seborrhoeic Keratoses Treatment in Hove and Worthing

We offer seborrhoeic keratoses treatment in Hove and Worthing at our dedicated skin and laser clinics. Treatments that remove the surface layers of the skin are the most effective. Options include:

• Cryotherapy – freezing with liquid nitrogen
• Curettage and Cautery – scraping the lesion off with a sharp instrument followed by cauterisation
• Laser therapy – selective removal of lesions

Seborrheic Keratosis Cryotherapy in Hove and Worthing

Thin or newer lesions respond particularly well to seborrheic keratosis cryotherapy, which is quick and minimally invasive. Thicker or more established lesions may be better treated with curettage and cautery, performed under local anaesthetic.

Most patients heal within 2–6 weeks. In some cases, a small white scar may remain.

Will the NHS Treat Seborrhoeic Keratoses?

Generally, cosmetic removal of seborrhoeic keratoses is not funded by the NHS. However, your GP may consider treatment if:

• The lesion is bleeding or catching.
• It causes significant irritation.
• There is diagnostic uncertainty and skin cancer cannot be ruled out.

For cosmetic or multiple lesion removal, private treatment is typically recommended.

Our Treatment Process for Seborrhoeic Keratoses

At Laser & Skin Clinics, we provide expert-led seborrhoeic keratoses treatment in Hove and Worthing, tailored to the size, thickness and location of your lesions. Our consultants offer private dermatology care in Sussex, ensuring fast access to accurate diagnosis and effective removal techniques.

Step 1: Personalised Consultation

Your treatment journey begins with a detailed skin assessment by a qualified dermatologist or specialist practitioner. We evaluate the number, type and location of your seborrhoeic keratoses and discuss the best approach for removal. If there’s any uncertainty about the diagnosis, a biopsy may be recommended to rule out other conditions such as melanoma.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Treatment

We offer two main options for seborrhoeic keratoses removal in Sussex:

• Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen. It is most effective for thin, flat growths and works by destroying the keratin-producing cells in the upper skin layers.

• Curettage and Cautery: Suitable for thicker or more raised lesions, this method involves gently scraping away the lesion with a curette, followed by cauterisation to stop bleeding and reduce recurrence.

For patients specifically seeking seborrhoeic keratoses cryotherapy in Hove and Worthing, this minimally invasive treatment is quick and typically requires no downtime.

Step 3: Aftercare and Recovery

Following treatment, the area may appear red or form a small scab, which usually heals within 2–6 weeks. Most patients experience little to no discomfort. You will receive full aftercare instructions and can contact the clinic at any time with questions during your recovery.

Why Choose Us?

• Trusted providers of private dermatology care in Sussex.

• Safe, clinical setting with modern treatment options.

• Appointments available in both Hove and Worthing.

• Treatments performed by qualified and experienced professionals.

• Transparent pricing and tailored care plans.

We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-focused care with visible results. Whether you’re looking to remove a single lesion or multiple, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Book Seborrhoeic Keratoses Removal in Sussex

If you’re seeking seborrhoeic keratoses removal in Sussex, our experienced dermatology teams in Hove and Worthing are here to help. We provide expert assessment and tailored treatments in a comfortable clinical setting.

Clinics:

• Hove Skin Clinic – Find Out More
• Worthing Skin Clinic – Find Out More

Contact us today to book your consultation.