Acne Scarring Metropolis Dermatology Los Angeles

Seborrheic keratosis is a common, benign (non-cancerous) skin growth that typically appears in adults as they age. These growths are often mistaken for warts or moles due to their waxy, “stuck-on” appearance. Although they are harmless, seborrheic keratoses can become irritated or uncomfortable, particularly if they rub against clothing. For those seeking removal, either for cosmetic reasons or due to irritation, Metropolis Dermatology in San Jose offers several treatment options to help manage seborrheic keratosis effectively.

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What is Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis is a non-cancerous skin growth that develops from the outer layer of skin cells. These lesions can vary in color, ranging from light tan to black, and they often have a waxy or scaly texture. While some individuals develop only one or two growths, others may develop clusters of seborrheic keratoses. They typically appear on areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, chest, and back.

Causes

The exact cause of seborrheic keratosis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to genetic factors. They are more likely to develop in individuals over the age of 50 and often run in families. Unlike other skin growths, seborrheic keratoses are not caused by sun exposure, and they do not pose any increased risk of skin cancer. However, their appearance can sometimes resemble more serious conditions, making proper diagnosis important.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of seborrheic keratosis include:

Waxy, scaly appearance. These growths often look like they’ve been “stuck” onto the skin’s surface.
Varied colors. They can range from tan, brown, or black, often appearing darker over time.
Irregular shape. Seborrheic keratoses can be round or oval and may have a rough texture.
Itchiness. In some cases, these growths may itch or become irritated when rubbed against clothing.

What Are the Possible Treatments?

While seborrheic keratosis does not require treatment, many people opt to have the growths removed for cosmetic reasons or due to discomfort. At Metropolis Dermatology, we offer several advanced treatments, including:

Laser Treatment: Targeting the growth with lasers to remove it with minimal scarring.

Other recommended treatments:

Cryotherapy. Freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen to remove it.
Curettage. Scraping off the growth with a sharp tool after numbing the area.
Electrocautery. Using electric current to burn off the growth.

Each of these options can effectively eliminate seborrheic keratosis, and our dermatologists will help determine the best treatment based on your specific needs.

FAQs

Can seborrheic keratosis turn into skin cancer?
No, seborrheic keratosis is benign and does not increase your risk of skin cancer.

Is treatment necessary for seborrheic keratosis?
Treatment is not required unless the growth becomes irritated, bleeds, or you prefer to have it removed for cosmetic reasons.

How long does the removal procedure take?
Most removal procedures are quick and can be done in-office, typically taking 20-30 minutes.

Will seborrheic keratosis return after removal?
The treated growth will not return, but new growths may develop elsewhere on the skin.

Does insurance cover seborrheic keratosis removal?
In most cases, removal is considered cosmetic and may not be covered by insurance, unless the growth is causing irritation.

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   Sabin Rich 
 October 13, 2026
 
 
   Always the best experience in this office ! The office is super nice and clean and Dr. Higgins and her staff are always so sweet and helpful! I won’t go anywhere else ever !
  
 
 
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   Cece 
 October 13, 2026
 
 
   Dr. Ann Collier was so nice and very thorough with her assessment! I recommend for sure!
  
 
 
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   Ryan Alevy 
 October 7, 2026
 
 
   Julia is not just one of the best physicians I’ve ever had, but she’s also a kind, thoughtful, and patient human being (which we love because sometimes going to the doctor is scary!)

I had some basil cell carcinoma and Julia found it, biopsied, and recommended me to another amazing physician (Dr. Jenny Hu) who removed it alongside her team. It’s easy to not mind a medical experience when it’s normal or “everything is fine,” but when inevitably stuff sometimes isn’t, you want to have somebody like Julia in your court. I’m so grateful for the comfort I feel when I go in for visits; it’s night and day when compared to some less than optimal experiences I’ve had in other offices! Also, the team at the office, billing, communication, scheduling- it’s all super streamlined and smooth. Thank you for everything!
  
 
 
 
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