Seborrheic keratosis removal in Dubai — diagnosing and removing “stuck-on” skin lesions

Key facts

• Seborrheic keratoses are benign and not contagious
• Dermoscopy helps separate them from melanoma
• Histology is used when the diagnosis is uncertain
• Removal options include cryotherapy, curettage and CO2 laser
• New lesions can appear with age — regular checks help

What seborrheic keratoses look like

Seborrheic keratoses are benign growths of the outer skin layer. They range from light tan to dark brown or black, often look waxy, rough or slightly raised, and have a characteristic “pasted-on” appearance, as though they could be lifted off the skin. They may be single or numerous, and they tend to increase with age; a family tendency is common. Small, dark, flat versions on the cheeks of darker skin types are sometimes called dermatosis papulosa nigra and are treated on similar principles. They are not contagious, they do not turn into cancer, and they do not need removal for medical reasons once the diagnosis is certain.

Telling them apart from melanoma and other skin lesions

The main reason to see a dermatologist is diagnosis. Some seborrheic keratoses are irregular and very dark, and a few skin cancers — including melanoma, pigmented basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell lesions — can resemble them. Dr. Abdullah Anis uses dermoscopy, a magnified, illuminated examination, to look at features such as surface pattern, pigment network and vessels that help separate benign from suspicious lesions. With a fellowship in dermatopathology, he is trained in how skin lesions look under the microscope as well as on the skin. If there is any doubt, a sample or the whole lesion is sent to the laboratory for histology before any cosmetic treatment.

Removal options for benign lesions

Once a lesion is confirmed as benign, it can be removed for comfort or cosmetic reasons. Options the dermatologist may discuss include freezing (cryotherapy), gentle curettage (scraping) under local anaesthetic, shave removal, electrocautery, or ablation with the clinic’s CO2 laser for selected lesions. The choice depends on the size, thickness and location of the growth, your skin type and how prone you are to pigmentation changes. Darker skin types in particular need careful technique to reduce the risk of light or dark marks afterwards. Thicker or larger lesions may be removed in a way that allows the tissue to be examined in the lab.

Recovery and aftercare

Most removals are done in a single short appointment under local anaesthetic where needed. The treated area usually forms a small scab or crust that falls away over one to two weeks; during this time you keep it clean, apply any ointment recommended and avoid picking. Sun protection is important afterwards, especially in Dubai, because new skin is prone to pigmentation. Temporary pink, lighter or darker patches can occur and usually fade over weeks to months. Seborrheic keratoses that are removed do not usually return in the same spot, but new ones may appear elsewhere with time, so many people return periodically to have new lesions checked.

Red flags — when a “harmless spot” needs urgent review

See a dermatologist promptly if a spot is new and growing quickly, bleeds without injury, becomes painful, ulcerates, shows several colours or an irregular edge, or looks different from your other spots (the “ugly duckling” sign). A sudden eruption of many seborrheic keratoses over a short period is uncommon and should also be assessed. Do not try to remove growths at home with acids, freezing kits or cutting, because this can mask a skin cancer, cause infection and leave scars. At Manhal Medical Center in central Dubai, lesions are examined first and treated only once the diagnosis is clear.

Most skin tags and moles are harmless, but anything changing should be checked before removal. With a background in dermatopathology, our dermatologist assesses lesions before choosing laser, shave or excision.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.