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Seborrheic keratosis

Also called: Seborrheic keratosis, barnacles, wisdom spots

Waxy, brown or black, stuck-on growths that are very common after 40. They're harmless but can look like skin cancer.

TypeHarmless skin growth
Common inOver 40
RemovalOptional

Overview

They look like they're pasted on the skin and can be rough or smooth.

They aren't contagious and don't become cancer.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Waxy, stuck-on brown or black growth

Less common

  • Itching

Look up a symptom: Mole or spot that's new or changing · Waxy, stuck-on brown or black growth

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayA growth that bleeds or grows fast.
See a doctor soonAny new or changing spot, or many appearing suddenly.

Causes

Aging and genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
  • It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Older age
  • Family history

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can usually tell by looking.

The exam

A skin check, sometimes with a magnifier.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Biopsy: If it might be cancer.

Treatment

No treatment is needed.

Self-care

  • Don't pick or scratch them

Freezing or scraping removes ones that itch or catch.

Prevention

No sure prevention.

  • There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Adults over 40: Very common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Harmless.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Is this harmless?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Seborrheic keratosis

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.