What is the best treatment for seborrheic keratosis?

Seborrheic keratosis – what a mouthful! This condition mostly affects people above 40, and it’s harmless. In other words; don’t freak out just yet. If you’re reading this article, chances are that you or someone you know has been diagnosed with seborrheic keratosis already. Fear not, I’m here to make light of the situation as we explore some available treatments.

First things first: What causes seborrheic keratosis?

We all like to know exactly what’s going on in our bodies so let me give an explanation in my own “unique” style. Seborrheic keratoses develop as a result of cells failing to produce properly due to aging skin cells affecting how they grow amongst other factors. Cancer isn’t your worry here because of these pesky clusters appearing on the topmost layer of your skin (phew).

Are there any symptoms?

Symptom-wise, think waxy-looking patches popping up all over your body. They may be black/brown/ tan or even different hues at times; which kind of reminds me about those colouring books where they fill blanks with colours that aren’t naturalistic – odd right? NO itchiness either (I promise). The thing is though..depending on someone’s age and amount – this could be both medical-related and/or cosmetically-problematic…which brings us nicely onto treatment options.

Over-the-Counter Treatments:

Some products directly tackle ageing parts(That’s pricey skincare cream talk) hence the relevance when discussing OTC treatments . Most topical sprays such as Glycolic acid (or its derivatives), cortisone creams or salicylic acid assists by controlling inflammation; particularly useful for dark pigmented growths but not the skin as a whole. Some work by causing peeling of the affected area and slowing down cell turnover – giving them time to heal.

Liquid Nitrogen:

Used commonly in doctors’ clinics, where parts are Frozen Destroyed..(I mean removed) without pain – through extreme coldness caused bt liquid nitrogen, which has been freeze-burned after contact with some growths for about 10 seconds making preparations like baking everything lower than room temperature seem oddly dumb by comparison.

Cryotherapy:

Does anyone else think of Elsa from Frozen? Just me? Okay. Well back on track…this treatment option uses sub-zero temperatures using dry ice or liquid nitrogen to destroy layers that house seborrheic keratosis cells. The temperatures hit roughly between (-40° and −78 °C) this helps hair grow faster(which is irrelevant here but was worth mentioning). With all things clinical aside, most individuals experience minimal precautions (nothing ominous there).

Excision/ Scissors snip/ curettage procedures:

Not going to lie; it’s super tempting not to make slasher film references when discussing these procedures – mostly because I have watched way too much crime T.V recently…but I digress there! This treatment option consists of physically removing unwanted clusters using tools (Such as scalpels or handheld removal gear) enabling your dermatologist quick access into cutting out what they want… just try not go home looking like you’ve had a fight with Edward scissor-hands (bad joke)

Natural Remedies

You’ve come this far so why not put something from mother nature into consideration?

Some individuals prefer natural remedies such as Apple cider vinegar & Tea tree oil bearing antifungal properties hence good enough reason for being an effective method – Others also swear Chamomile extracts amongst other extracts get rid-off small tumours allegedly due its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties- At this point I should advise people to ensure any form of treatment options are vetted by credible medical practitioners

Conclusion

Seborrheic keratosis in all its glory falls under the vast category of non-life-threatening conditions; when appropriately identified with suitable treatments is less invasive than the average trip to a licensed medical professional. Whether it’s through over-the-counter products or surgical methods, what matters most is that you’re proactive about maintaining healthy skin – albeit never using an unverified offline remedy (Please Don’t – Save yourself)

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