Seborrheic Keratosis: Raised Brown Spots in Seoul
The short answer
Seborrheic keratosis is a common, harmless, raised brown or black growth that looks stuck onto the skin, and it can be lasered off for cosmetic reasons once a doctor has confirmed what it is. At Shinebom Clinic in Jamsil, Seoul, Er:YAG is listed for superficial spots including seborrheic keratosis.
Key facts
- Look: waxy or rough, "stuck on" brown, tan or black patches
- Risk: benign, but similar-looking lesions can be serious
- Device: Er:YAG, used for superficial lesions
- Healing: redness 2 to 4 days; no picking at scabs
- Pricing: quoted after consultation
What is seborrheic keratosis?
It is a benign overgrowth of the skin's top layer. It typically starts in midlife, grows slowly and can appear on the face, chest and back. Genetics and sun exposure are linked. Size, thickness and color vary, from a pale tan patch to a dark, warty plaque. It is not contagious and does not become a cancer by itself.
Why a doctor should look first
Dark, rough or crusted spots can look like melanoma or sun-related skin cancer. The doctor at Shinebom Clinic examines each lesion closely and will advise a medical assessment if anything looks unusual, such as rapid growth, bleeding or an irregular edge. Treating a lesion that was never identified is not something a responsible clinic does.
Which treatments may help?
Where a growth is confirmed as seborrheic keratosis, Er:YAG laser removes superficial tissue layer by layer. It sits within the clinic's pigmentation laser service, which also covers spots, moles and flat warts. Expect redness for 2 to 4 days. Moisturize, use sunscreen, avoid scrubs and avoid retinol and brightening products for 3 days. Never pick scabs.
What results are realistic?
Many lesions clear, though thicker ones may need more than one visit. Temporary color change can occur, and new lesions can form elsewhere because the tendency is inherited. See pigmentation laser aftercare for healing steps.
When to see a doctor
Have a spot reviewed promptly if it bleeds without injury, grows quickly, hurts, or looks different from your other spots. Sudden appearance of many such growths at once also deserves a medical check.
Frequently asked questions
Are these growths contagious?
No. They are not infectious and do not spread from person to person.
Will it grow back after treatment?
The treated spot usually does not, but you can develop new ones because the tendency stays.
Can I just scrub or peel it off?
Picking or scrubbing can cause bleeding, infection and scarring. Have a doctor assess it instead.
Related pages
General information from Shinebom Clinic, not personal medical advice. Results and recovery vary between individuals, and all procedures carry possible risks and side effects. A doctor will confirm what suits you at consultation.
Bloom yourself, in your own way
Tell us your skin concerns and dates in English. Shinebom Clinic is a 3-minute walk from Jamsil Station, exits 8 and 9.