The names share a word, not a treatment plan, because dermatology naming is apparently not a filing system.3
How do they look and feel different?
| Feature | Keratosis pilaris | Seborrheic keratosis |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Patches of small bumps around hair follicles, rather than a distinct growth. | One or several distinct growths with a waxy, scaly or warty surface. |
| Feel | Rough, dry skin, sometimes itchy. | A raised or thickened growth with a stuck on appearance. |
| Colour | Usually skin coloured; red on lighter skin or darker on brown or black skin. | Usually tan or brown, but can range from white to black. |
| Common locations | Upper arms, thighs and buttocks; sometimes the face or trunk. | Chest, back, head and neck; anywhere except palms and soles. |
| Typical age | Often begins in childhood and becomes more noticeable during teenage years. | Usually appears in middle age or later. |
| Usual approach | Moisturizing and gentle exfoliation if the bumps bother you. | Leave a confirmed growth alone or discuss removal. |
What causes each one?
Keratosis pilaris involves keratin building up inside hair follicles. It often runs in families and becomes more noticeable in winter, when skin is drier. It is not an infection and cannot spread between people. Seborrheic keratoses are also not contagious. Their exact cause is unknown; age and family history are associated with developing them.1245
How do you treat keratosis pilaris?
- 1Wash gently with a mild, unperfumed cleanser. Keep showers short and use cool or lukewarm water rather than hot water.
- 2Apply a creamy moisturizer within five minutes of bathing, while skin is still damp. Moisturize at least two or three times daily. Urea or lactic acid are common ingredients in creams used for keratosis pilaris.
- 3If you exfoliate physically, use a soft washcloth gently. Avoid harsh scrubs, scratching and picking, which can make the condition worse.
- 4For persistent bumps, ask a pharmacist or dermatologist about a suitable exfoliating cream. Options include salicylic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid and urea. Use prescribed exfoliating medicine only in the amount and frequency advised; stop it for a few days if skin becomes dry or irritated.
Tell your dermatologist if your treatment plan has not helped after four to six weeks. Treatment controls keratosis pilaris rather than curing it, and maintenance is usually needed. The routine does not come with a graduation ceremony, because keeping the bumps under control can require ongoing care. Some people gradually clear over years without treatment, but there is no way to predict who will.6
A dermatologist can consider laser treatment for persistent redness or texture changes. Benefits are uncertain: these treatments are not usually available on the NHS because effectiveness has not been proven.14
Does seborrheic keratosis need removal?
A confirmed seborrheic keratosis needs no treatment unless it bothers you. Removal options include freezing with liquid nitrogen, scraping, shaving or laser treatment. After freezing, the growth falls off within days or weeks; the treated skin can become lighter. A removed growth does not return, although new ones can appear elsewhere. Creams and peels have limited research and are not reliably effective, so do not assume a keratosis pilaris cream will remove a distinct growth.2
When should you see a doctor?
Have a new skin growth examined rather than diagnosing it from colour or texture alone. Seek assessment for rapid changes, bleeding or many growths appearing suddenly. A dermatologist can examine the growth closely and take a sample if cancer is suspected. For keratosis pilaris, see a doctor if skin becomes very red or sore, symptoms persist, or the condition affects daily life.12
Where this answer comes from
- 1Keratosis pilaris - treatment, causes and symptomshealthdirect.gov.au
- 2Seborrheic Keratosis: What Is It, Causes, Risks & Treatmentmy.clevelandclinic.org
- 3Keratosis Pilaris: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatmentdermnetnz.org
- 4Keratosis pilarisnhs.uk
- 5Seborrheic keratoses: Overviewaad.org
- 6Keratosis pilaris: Diagnosis and treatmentaad.org
