SK Treatment

Seborrheic keratosis is a common non-cancerous skin tumor that appears as brown, black, or tan growths on the skin. These growths are usually benign and do not require treatment unless they become irritated, itchy, or cosmetically bothersome. If you have seborrheic keratosis and are looking for products to manage or treat them, here are some options:

Seborrheic Keratosis Topical Treatment

Over-the-Counter Topical Creams:

• Hydrogen peroxide: FDA has approved hydrogen peroxide 40% topical solution for treatment of raised seborrheic keratoses (SKs) in adults. It is the first drug to be approved for this indication. (Hydrogen peroxide is available over the counter for topical use as a 3% solution.

• Salicylic Acid: Over-the-counter creams or ointments containing salicylic acid may help to exfoliate and reduce the appearance of seborrheic keratosis.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Some people use hydrogen peroxide to help soften and remove seborrheic keratosis growths. It’s essential to use caution when applying hydrogen peroxide and consult with a dermatologist first.
• Topical Retinoids: Retinoids like tretinoin (Retin-A) can sometimes be used to help flatten seborrheic keratoses and improve their appearance. They work by promoting skin cell turnover.
• Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone creams are sometimes used to lighten the color of seborrheic keratoses, particularly if the growths are darker than the surrounding skin.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) Creams: Creams containing AHAs, such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, may help exfoliate the surface of the seborrheic keratosis, which can improve its appearance over time.
• Imiquimod Cream: Imiquimod is an immune response modifier that may be used to stimulate the body’s immune system to attack and remove seborrheic keratoses.

Prescription Medications:

• A dermatologist may prescribe topical medications that contain higher concentrations of active ingredients to treat seborrheic keratosis.

Cryotherapy:

• Cryotherapy involves freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off over time. This is a common medical treatment for seborrheic keratosis.

Electrocautery or Laser Therapy:

• These procedures use heat or laser energy to remove the growth. They are typically performed by a dermatologist.

Chemical Peels:

• A chemical peel can help improve the appearance of the skin by removing the top layer, which may include seborrheic keratosis.

Shave Excision:

• A dermatologist can use a scalpel to shave off the seborrheic keratosis growth.

Home Remedies: Some individuals may try natural remedies like apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, or iodine tincture. However, these methods should be used cautiously, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting them.