Seborrheic Keratosis, DPN and Age Spots: Harmless or Not?
Seborrheic keratoses and the small dark bumps called DPN are common, harmless growths that increase with age. Know how they look and when a spot needs checking.
Condition guide
Seborrheic keratosis and age spots
Also known as Seborrhoeic keratosis, Dermatosis papulosa nigra, DPN, Age spots, Solar lentigo.
In short
Seborrheic keratoses are very common, harmless, warty looking brown or black growths that appear with age. Dermatosis papulosa nigra, or DPN, is a closely related form of small dark bumps on the face and neck that is especially common in brown skin, while flat age spots are a separate, sun related change. None of these is cancer, but any spot that is new, changing, bleeding or looks different from the others should be checked.
Typical signs
- Raised, warty, brown or black growths that look stuck on to the skin
- Many small dark bumps on the cheeks, around the eyes or on the neck
- Flat brown spots on sun-exposed skin such as the face and hands
- Growths that slowly increase in number with age
When to see a dermatologist
- A spot is new, growing quickly, changing shape or colour, or looks different from the rest
- A growth bleeds, crusts, itches persistently or does not heal
- Many new spots appear suddenly
- You have a dark streak in a nail, or a growing dark spot on a palm or sole
- You would like spots treated safely, with minimal marks
Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.
Read the guides
Full, referenced articles on seborrheic keratosis and age spots written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.
Freckles, Lentigines and Sun Spots: Causes and Treatment
Freckles fade when sun exposure drops, while lentigines and sun spots stay. Here is how to tell them apart, prevent new spots and treat them safely.
Worried about seborrheic keratosis and age spots?
Book an online consultation with Dr. Maria Ansari for an assessment and a written care plan made for you.
This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.