Seborrheic Keratosis Causes
Seborrheic keratosis is a skin ailment that originates in the keratinocytes that exist in the upper layer of the skin. They are non-cancerous growths that become more prominent with advancing age. They usually vary in size and color, ranging from shades of brown to black. They are oval or round in shape, may be flat or slightly raised and tend to develop a cauliflower-like warty appearance as they develop. These lesions look like dirt stuck to the skin and tend to itch, the itch increases as the skin ages. These lesions may be caused by a constant exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun or by an abnormal increase in melanin. It may also be an inherited condition or a side effect of certain medication. Having similar symptoms, seborrheic keratosis is very often confused with melanoma but it is not harmful at all. However, to clear any doubts, consulting a dermatologist is recommended. If the lesions or the skin around them tends to bleed, it may be a cause for concern.
Seborrheic Keratosis Treatment
A diet rich in fiber and low on fats is recommended for people prone to seborrheic keratosis. The antioxidants present in fruits and vegetables are beneficial in treating this condition. The juice of a lemon in a cup of warm water with a pinch of cayenne, consumed daily, is believed to be beneficial in melting away the lesions. Covering the lesion with dandelion extract or a paste of honey and flax seed powder and washing it off after 10-15 minutes may cause the lesion to disappear gradually.
Since seborrheic keratosis is not harmful in any way, they can be left on. However, due to their ugly appearance, people usually opt for having them removed, after consulting an experienced dermatologist. The itchy sensation they cause is another reason why people opt for lesion removal. Besides, these warty lesions tend to interfere with clothing and jewelry thus increasing the discomfort. The warty lesion can be removed by tying a strand of hair tightly around its base, thus cutting off the blood supply to the lesions. Gradually, the lesion will dry up and eventually fall off. The dermatologist may opt to lance off the lesions. If the seborrheic keratosis is very small, liquid nitrogen may be used to freeze the lesions in a procedure called cryotherapy. The lesion slowly crusts and falls off in a few days. In some cases, electric cauterization may be used wherein the stub of the growth is burned. However, these removal processes may leave behind a scar.
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