Seborrhoeic keratosis (SK) is a common benign skin condition characterized by wart-like growths that can appear anywhere on the body.
While generally harmless, these growths can be bothersome and affect your appearance. Many people choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons or due to irritation.
In Birmingham, Cryosonic offers CryoPen treatment—an effective, non-invasive method to safely and quickly remove SKs, restoring clear, smooth skin with minimal downtime.
Seborrhoeic keratosis arises from an overgrowth of epidermal cells, specifically keratinocytes, which are the predominant cells in the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis. These cells produce keratin, a protein that helps form the skin’s protective barrier.
Normally, keratinocytes mature, move toward the skin’s surface, and eventually shed off as dead skin cells.
However, in seborrhoeic keratosis, this process is disrupted, and keratinocytes proliferate more than usual, leading to the formation of a raised growth.
Factors Contributing to Seborrhoeic Keratosis Development
Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormones, especially during pregnancy or menopause, can increase the development of seborrhoeic keratosis.
Skin Trauma or Irritation: If clothing rubs or puts pressure on the skin, like around the neck or waist, it can cause these growths to appear.
Immune System Function: A weak immune system, from treatments that suppress it or diseases that attack it, raises the chance of unusual skin growths.
Medications and Chemicals: Some medicines and contact with strong chemicals or pollutants can change how the skin grows. This might lead to seborrhoeic keratosis.
Diet and Lifestyle: A bad diet, being overweight, smoking, and not getting enough exercise can hurt skin health. On the other hand, a diet that has a lot of antioxidants may help slow down skin aging and prevent some skin issues.
Will seborrhoeic keratosis go away on its own?
No, seborrhoeic keratosis does not usually disappear by itself. They are harmless, but they often stay unless removed with treatments like cryotherapy, laser therapy, or small surgery. New ones might show up over time.
Can I remove seborrhoeic keratosis myself?
It’s not a good idea to remove seborrhoeic keratosis by yourself. Trying to do it at home might cause infection, scars, or not getting it all. It’s better to see a professional for safe and good treatment.
Cryotherapy, particularly using advanced tools like the CryoPen, is considered one of the most effective and preferred methods for seborrhoeic keratosis removal. The CryoPen works by delivering a highly controlled and focused burst of extreme cold (nitrous oxide) directly to the lesion.
This rapid freezing causes the abnormal skin cells to crystallise and die, triggering the body’s natural healing process. Over the course of several days to a few weeks, the treated area gradually dries out, scabs, and eventually falls away, revealing fresh, healthy skin beneath.
One of the key advantages of CryoPen treatment is its precision—it targets only the affected area without damaging surrounding tissue, reducing the risk of scarring.
It’s also a quick, non-invasive procedure that usually requires no downtime, making it an ideal option for children and adults alike, especially when the growth is in visible or sensitive areas such as the face, chest, or neck
After removing seborrhoeic keratosis Birmingham, especially with methods like CryoPen, good aftercare is important. It helps your skin heal and stops problems. Here’s how to take care of your skin well:
Keep the Area Clean and Dry
Carefully wash the treated area with gentle soap and water. Use a soft towel to pat it dry—don’t rub it. Stay away from strong cleansers or scrubs while it heals.
Avoid Picking or Scratching
As the skin gets better, you might see a scab or dry crust. Allow it to fall off on its own. If you pick or scratch it, it can slow down healing and raise the chance of scars or infection.
Apply a Soothing Ointment (if advised)
Experts may suggest a healing cream like petroleum jelly or an antibiotic cream. Use it as advised to keep the area moist and safe.
Protect from Sun Exposure
Newly healed skin is more responsive to sunlight. Use a high-SPF sunscreen or keep the area covered when you are outside. This helps to prevent dark spots or changes in skin color.
Avoid Makeup or Perfumed Products
If the removal was on your face or another visible area, avoid using makeup, toners, or scented lotions on or near the spot until it heals completely.
Watch for Signs of Infection
Complications are rare, but watch for signs like more redness, swelling, pain, pus, or warmth. If you see any of these, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Be Gentle with Skin Treatments
Stay away from facials, peels, or laser treatments on the area that was treated. Wait until your skin has fully healed. Only start again when your Expert says it is okay.
Proper aftercare can really improve healing. It can also lower the chances of scarring and keep your skin healthy and clear after seborrhoeic keratosis removal Birmingham.