Are you tired of dealing with rough, dark, or crusty spots on your skin that won’t disappear?
These could be seborrheic keratoses. They are common skin growths that are not cancerous and often appear as we age. While they are not harmful, many people feel upset or aware of how they look. That’s where we can help.
At Cryosonic in Bristol, we know that these growths can impact how you feel about yourself. Our advanced removal methods are made to be gentle on your skin and provide clear results.
Seborrhoeic keratoses are non-cancerous skin growths that commonly appear as people age. They might look worrisome, but they are harmless. Still, they can be annoying or uncomfortable. This is especially true if they grow larger, feel different, or show up in visible places like the face, neck, or chest.
1. Adults Over 40:
These growths are not common in children or teenagers. They usually show up more as people get older. Many see them as a normal part of skin aging. By the time a person is 60 or 70, most will have at least one seborrhoeic keratosis, and often several.
2. Genetic Influence:
If close family members like parents or siblings have had seborrhoeic keratoses, you may have a higher chance of getting them as well. Genes seem to play an important role in how early and how much they show up.
3. All Skin Types, More in Lighter Skin:
Seborrhoeic keratoses can happen in all skin types, but they usually show up in people with light skin. In those with darker skin, these patches may appear darker and smoother. This can sometimes lead to confusion with other skin problems.
4. No Gender Bias:
Men and women can both get seborrhoeic keratoses. These growths are not connected to hormones, so both can have them at the same rates.
5. Possible Link with Sun Exposure:
Seborrhoeic keratoses are not directly caused by sun damage, but they usually show up on parts of the body that get sun, such as the back, face, shoulders, and chest. Being in the sun may speed up when they appear in people who are likely to get them.
Can seborrhoeic keratosis turn malignant?
Seborrhoeic keratosis is a benign skin condition and does not become malignant. However, because it can sometimes resemble more serious skin issues like melanoma, it's important to have any new or changing growths checked by a professional to ensure proper diagnosis and peace of mind.
Risks of Seborrhoeic Keratosis Removal Bristol
Seborrhoeic keratosis removal bristol treatments are typically safe, but there are some potential risks and complications to consider. These include the possibility of scarring, infection, and changes in skin pigmentation.
Key Risks:
Seborrhoeic keratoses can look different based on where they are on the body, how big they are, their color, and how they feel. They have some things in common, like being non-cancerous skin growths. Here are the main types you should know about:
1. Stuck-On Appearance:
This is the most common type of seborrhoeic keratosis. The lesion looks like it is “stuck” on the top of the skin. It usually feels rough and raised. The color can be anywhere from light brown to black.
2. Flat Seborrhoeic Keratoses:
These types are not raised much. They are usually found on the chest or back. They feel smooth and can be tan, brown, or pinkish.
3. Atypical or Irritated Seborrhoeic Keratoses:
These growths might get swollen, red, or feel sore. This often happens from rubbing or getting hurt. They may look like other skin issues, like warts or eczema. A close look is needed to understand what it is.
4. Hereditary Seborrhoeic Keratoses:
Some people get seborrhoeic keratoses because of their genes. These people may see several growths show up in their younger years, especially if their family has a history of the condition.
5. Giant Seborrhoeic Keratoses:
These are larger than normal seborrhoeic keratoses. They can sometimes grow to several centimeters big. They might have a rough surface and can be darker in color.
Knowing the different types helps in finding the best treatment. It also makes sure a professional can diagnose it correctly.
First, it’s important to know that seborrhoeic keratoses are harmless skin growths. They are more common as we age and can be affected by our genes. This means we might not completely stop them from happening. However, there are some useful steps you can take to lower your chances of getting them or to slow down how fast they show up over time.
Preventive Tips:
Protect Your Skin from UV Rays
Being in the sun for a long time is thought to help cause seborrhoeic keratoses. This is especially true for areas that are often in the sun, like your face, neck, and hands. Always remember to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even when it’s cloudy. You should also think about wearing clothes and hats that can keep you safe from the sun when you are outside.
Moisturise Regularly
Keeping your skin hydrated helps keep its natural barrier and lower irritation. This can also help stop new growths from forming.
Avoid Harsh Skin Products
Using products with alcohol, strong scents, or other rough ingredients can bother the skin and may make the condition worse. Pick gentle skincare choices.
Don’t Pick or Scratch Existing Growths
Trauma to the skin can sometimes cause extra growths or make current ones worse. Try to avoid irritating them more.
Monitor Your Skin Changes
Regular self-checks and trips to the skin doctor can help you notice changes in your skin early. This way, if you find any unusual spots, they can be checked out the right way.
Even though we cannot always stop it because of genes, taking care of your skin can help lessen the effects of seborrhoeic keratoses on your skin.
Cryotherapy is important for getting rid of seborrhoeic keratosis. It offers a fast and simple treatment. This method uses very cold temperatures, often from liquid nitrogen or a special CryoPen, to freeze and destroy the skin growth.
The cold helps the skin cells in the keratosis break apart. This leads to the natural shedding of the treated area over several days. It works well for flat or slightly raised spots. People usually handle it well and do not need much time to recover.
Cryotherapy is most important because it causes very little or no scarring if done right. This is why many people choose it to look better.