What are the characteristics of seborrheic keratosis. How do these skin growths differ from other skin conditions. What treatment options are available for seborrheic keratosis. When should you seek medical attention for these skin lesions.

Understanding Seborrheic Keratosis: An Overview

Seborrheic keratosis is a common, benign skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. These harmless growths typically appear as waxy, raised patches on the skin, often resembling warts or moles. Despite their sometimes concerning appearance, seborrheic keratoses are non-cancerous and generally do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.

According to statistics, over 80 million people in the United States alone have seborrheic keratoses. While they can occur at any age, these skin growths are most prevalent in individuals over 50 years old. Understanding the nature of seborrheic keratosis is crucial for proper skin care and knowing when to seek medical attention.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Seborrheic Keratosis

Seborrheic keratoses can vary in appearance, but they share some common characteristics. These growths typically:

• Range in color from tan to brown, yellow, gray, or very dark brown (sometimes appearing black)
• Have a waxy or rough, crusty texture
• Appear “stuck onto” the skin’s surface
• Measure between 2 millimeters to 3 centimeters across
• Are round or oval in shape
• May itch but are generally not painful

These lesions can appear anywhere on the body except for the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and mucous membranes. Common locations include the back, shoulders, chest, face, scalp, trunk, neck, arms, and legs.

Types of Seborrheic Keratosis

There are several subtypes of seborrheic keratosis, each with unique characteristics:

1. Stucco keratoses: Multiple small, light tan bumps with a rough texture, typically found on the lower legs and ankles.
2. Dermatosis papulosa nigra: Small, dark pigmented bumps that often appear on the face, primarily affecting individuals with brown or black skin.

It’s important to note that seborrheic keratoses can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from other skin conditions, including skin cancer. For this reason, it’s crucial to have any new or changing skin lesions evaluated by a dermatologist.

Causes and Risk Factors for Seborrheic Keratosis

The exact cause of seborrheic keratosis remains unknown. However, researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to their development:

• Age: The risk of developing seborrheic keratoses increases with age, particularly after 50.
• Genetics: There appears to be a hereditary component, as they often run in families.
• Sun exposure: While not directly caused by sun damage, seborrheic keratoses are more common in sun-exposed areas of the body.
• Hormonal changes: Some studies suggest that hormonal fluctuations may play a role in their development.

Unlike warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), seborrheic keratoses are not believed to be caused by any viral infection. They are also not contagious, meaning they cannot be spread from person to person or to other parts of the body through contact.

Diagnosing Seborrheic Keratosis: When to See a Doctor

While seborrheic keratoses are generally harmless, it’s important to have any new or changing skin growths evaluated by a healthcare professional. You should seek medical attention if you notice:

• A rapid increase in the number of growths
• Irregular or blurred borders around the growths
• Frequent irritation or bleeding caused by clothing
• Growths or sores that don’t heal
• Unusual colors (e.g., purple, reddish-black, or blue)
• Persistent itching or irritation

For individuals with multiple seborrheic keratoses, annual check-ups with a dermatologist are recommended to monitor for any changes that could indicate skin cancer.

Differential Diagnosis

Dermatologists use various techniques to diagnose seborrheic keratosis and distinguish it from other skin conditions, including:

• Visual examination
• Dermoscopy (examination with a special magnifying tool)
• Skin biopsy (if there’s uncertainty about the diagnosis)

It’s crucial to differentiate seborrheic keratosis from more serious conditions like melanoma or other forms of skin cancer.

Treatment Options for Seborrheic Keratosis

In most cases, seborrheic keratoses do not require treatment. However, removal may be recommended if:

• The growth is difficult to distinguish from skin cancer
• It causes discomfort or irritation
• The patient desires removal for cosmetic reasons

When treatment is necessary, several options are available:

Cryosurgery

This procedure involves freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off within a few days. While effective, there’s a possibility of the lesion growing back or causing changes in skin pigmentation.

Shave Excision

A dermatologist can shave off the lesion using a scalpel without affecting the deeper layers of skin. This method allows for a biopsy if needed.

Electrocautery and Curettage

Electrocautery uses an electric current to burn off the growth, while curettage involves scraping it away with a specialized tool called a curette. These methods can be used separately or in combination.

Living with Seborrheic Keratosis: Self-Care and Prevention

While it’s not possible to prevent seborrheic keratoses entirely, there are steps you can take to manage them and maintain overall skin health:

• Avoid picking or scratching at the growths to prevent bleeding, swelling, or infection.
• Use gentle skincare products that won’t irritate the lesions.
• Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.
• Perform regular skin self-examinations to monitor for any changes in existing growths or the appearance of new ones.
• Consult with a dermatologist if you have concerns about your skin or notice any unusual changes.

Remember, while seborrheic keratoses are generally harmless, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to skin health. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist can help ensure that any potential issues are caught and addressed early.

Psychological Impact and Cosmetic Considerations

While seborrheic keratoses are medically benign, they can have a significant impact on an individual’s self-esteem and quality of life, particularly when they occur in visible areas like the face or neck. It’s important to address these concerns:

• Discuss your feelings with your dermatologist if the growths are causing emotional distress.
• Explore safe and effective removal options if the lesions affect your self-confidence.
• Consider counseling or support groups if you’re struggling to cope with the cosmetic effects of seborrheic keratosis.

Remember that seeking treatment for cosmetic reasons is valid, and many dermatologists offer solutions that can help improve both the appearance of your skin and your overall well-being.

Future Directions in Seborrheic Keratosis Research

As our understanding of seborrheic keratosis continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for treatment and prevention:

• Genetic studies to identify potential hereditary factors that contribute to the development of seborrheic keratoses.
• Investigation of topical treatments that may help reduce the appearance of lesions without invasive procedures.
• Development of more precise diagnostic tools to differentiate seborrheic keratoses from other skin conditions.
• Exploration of potential links between seborrheic keratosis and other health conditions to improve overall patient care.

Staying informed about these advancements can help individuals make more educated decisions about their skin health and treatment options in the future.

Understanding seborrheic keratosis is crucial for proper skin care and peace of mind. While these growths are generally harmless, they can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from more serious skin conditions. By familiarizing yourself with the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for seborrheic keratosis, you can take proactive steps to maintain your skin health and seek appropriate medical care when necessary. Remember, when in doubt, always consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of any skin concerns.

Seborrheic keratosis: Symptoms, treatment, and causes

Seborrheic keratoses are common, harmless, noncancerous growths on the skin. They usually appear as tan, brown, yellow, gray, or very dark brown warty growths ‘stuck onto’ the back, shoulders, chest, or face.

Also known as basal cell papilloma or seborrheic warts, seborrheic keratoses can appear anywhere on the skin except the palms, soles, and mucous membranes. They often appear on the scalp, trunk, neck, arms, and legs and sometimes occur on the face. Some look black but are, in fact, very dark brown.

Seborrheic keratoses can look like warts but are different from warts. Warts result from a virus, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV). Seborrheic keratoses are unlikely to stem from HPV or another virus, according to Dermnet NZ. They are not contagious.

Seborrheic keratoses tend to appear from middle age onwards. Some individuals may have just one, but there will usually be several. Seborrheic keratosis is not contagious.

Over 80 million people in the United States have seborrheic keratoses. They can occur at any age but are most common after the age of 50 years.

Seborrheic keratoses may look like warts, moles, or skin cancer.

They can have the following features:

• Color: Tan, brown, yellow, gray, or skin-colored; some are very dark brown but may appear black.
• Location: Commonly on the trunk, scalp, trunk, neck, limbs, and sometimes the face. They do not affect the soles of the feet or palms of the hands.
• Texture: Can be “waxy” in appearance or rough and crusty, like a barnacle.
• Raised or not: Can look as if “stuck onto” the skin, but some are flat.
• Size: From a pinpoint to over 1 inch (around 2 millimeters to 3 centimeters) across.
• Shape: Usually round or oval.
• Sensation: Not painful but may itch or become irritated.
• Number: Ranging from one to hundreds of lesions.
• Growth: Lesions usually start as small, rough bumps and gradually get thicker and develop a warty surface. They grow slowly.

Some lesions can be light-colored and flat, like a solar lentigo, which is also known as a sunspot or “liver” spot.

On darker skin, seborrheic keratoses present similarly but are more likely to be the darker brown type.

Seborrheic keratosis lesions are rarely painful but can be annoying, depending on their position. It is important not to pick or scratch them as this can lead to bleeding, swelling, and potentially, infection.

There are many types and subtypes of seborrheic keratoses, including stucco keratoses and dermatosis papulosa nigra.

Stucco keratoses are multiple small, light tan papules or bumps with a rough texture, specifically around the lower legs and ankles.

Dermatosis papulosa nigra appears as multiple small, dark pigmented papules or bumps. Lesions often appear on the face. They tend to affect people with brown or black skin.

It can be difficult to distinguish between seborrheic keratoses and skin cancer lesions. For this reason, anyone who notices new lesions or skin changes should see a doctor.

If they already have a diagnosis, they should request an appointment if the following occur:

• a large number of growths grow in a short space of time
• the borders around the growths are irregular or blurred
• the growths are irritated by clothes and regularly bleed, as removal may be an option
• growths or sores develop and do not heal
• the growths are an unusual color, for instance, purple, reddish-black, or blue
• there is itching or irritation

People with multiple seborrheic keratoses may wish to make a yearly appointment with a dermatologist to check for changes that could be cancerous.

How do you know if a lesion is cancerous?

In most cases of seborrheic keratosis, no further treatment is necessary.

However, a doctor may recommend removing the growth in the following cases:

• It is hard to distinguish from skin cancer or the diagnosis is uncertain.
• The individual does not like it and wants to remove it.
• It causes itching or irritation, or clothing and jewelry rub against it.

If the dermatologist carries out a biopsy, they will usually remove the seborrheic keratosis at the same time.

There are several ways to remove seborrheic keratoses.

Cryosurgery

A doctor applies liquid nitrogen to the growth with a spray gun or cotton swab. The lesion freezes and falls off in a few days. A blister may form that will eventually dry into a crust and fall off.

However, the lesion can grow back, and changes in pigmentation can also occur.

How can cryosurgery treat a wart?

Skin shaving (shave excision)

A doctor shaves off the lesion with a scalpel without touching the layers beneath the skin’s surface. The collected cells can then go to a laboratory for a biopsy.

Electrocautery, curettage, or both

In electrocautery — also known as electrosurgery — the surgeon uses an electric current to burn (cauterize) the growth, under a local anesthetic. In curettage, a doctor uses a curette — a scoop-shaped surgical instrument — to scrape off the burnt growth.

A doctor will usually apply a local anesthetic to numb the area. On the face, however, they will use a lower current and will not numb the area.

Some people need only electrocautery, some need curettage, and others need both.

Laser therapy

The doctor uses a laser to remove the lesion.

Laser treatment can be ablative or nonablative. Ablative surgery removes the top layer of skin and heats the underlying layer to stimulate the growth of new collagen fibers. Nonablative surgery is less invasive and works by stimulating the growth of new collagen.

Topical treatments

Researchers are currently looking into options for topical applications to remove seborrheic keratoses.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a 40% hydrogen peroxide solution for raised keratoses that appears safe and effective. Minor adverse effects may occur, such as scaling, inflammation, and changes in skin color.

Chemical peels are also available. A doctor applies a peel containing trichloracetic acid to the lesion.

All these methods have disadvantages, such as:

• irritation and discomfort in the area during recovery time
• changes in pigmentation, where the skin becomes lighter or darker
• the need for several sessions, as a doctor may be unable to remove all lesions in one intervention.
• recurrence of growths or lesions continue to appear in other areas

There are no proven home remedies for seborrheic keratoses.

Lemon juice or vinegar can irritate the skin, possibly causing the lesion to dry and crumble. However, there is no evidence that this is safe or effective.

Some substances, such as tea tree oil, can trigger allergic contact dermatitis, an immune system reaction that causes itching and inflammation around the site.

Anyone with concerns about a lesion should see a doctor, who can check that it is not melanoma and advise on treatment, if appropriate.

Dermatologists are not certain why seborrheic keratoses develop.

Possible causes and risk factors include:

• Skin damage: Some types of seborrheic keratoses appear after dermatitis or sunburn.
• Genetic factors: Scientists believe a genetic mutation could be responsible when people develop a high number of seborrheic keratoses or when they run in families.
• Age: They are more common in those aged 50 years or above.
• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light: Similarities with solar lentigo suggest UV light may play a role.
• Medication: People who use epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors to treat cancer may have a higher risk of warty growths.
• Skin friction: This may increase the risk and explain why they often appear in skin folds.

Seborrheic keratoses do not appear to be linked to any viral infection.

The authors of a 2016 research article note that seborrheic keratoses have “virtually no malignant potential.”

In rare cases, however, a sudden onset of numerous seborrheic keratoses may be linked to underlying malignancy, such as cancer in the gastrointestinal tract, lymphoma, or leukemia. In this case, it is known as Leser-Treélat sign.

Sudden eruptions of numerous seborrheic keratoses can also occur in pregnancy, during chemotherapy, and with various inflammatory skin disorders.

To diagnose seborrheic keratosis, a physician or dermatologist:

• will ask about symptoms and family and medical history
• will carry out a visual and physical examination
• may recommend a biopsy to rule out skin cancer and remove a growth at the same time
• may recommend further tests to rule out other conditions

A lesion with the features of seborrheic keratosis is unlikely to be skin cancer.

However, since it can be hard to distinguish between skin cancer and seborrheic keratoses, it is best to check with a doctor, especially if multiple lesions appear in a short time or if lesions change.

If the doctor suspects melanoma or is unsure, they may recommend a biopsy for examination under a microscope.

Seborrheic keratoses rarely become cancerous, but they share genetic features with some types of cancer. Researchers believe the gene process used by the lesions could help scientists learn more about certain types of cancer.

Here are some answers to questions people often ask about seborrheic keratoses.

How do you get rid of seborrheic keratoses?

In most cases, seborrheic keratoses do not need treatment, but a person may opt to remove them if they snag on clothing or feel unsightly. A doctor may remove one while taking a biopsy for skin cancer. Options include minor surgery, laser therapy, and cryotherapy. A doctor can advise on the best approach.

What do seborrheic keratoses look like?

Seborrheic keratoses can be skin-colored, tan, brown, yellow, gray, or very dark brown that may appear black. They can look waxy or rough, like a wart. Some are raised, as if stuck onto the skin, while others are flat. The size can range from a pinpoint to over 1 inch (around 2 millimeters to 3 centimeters) across. They usually grow slowly.

Are seborrheic keratoses serious?

Seborrheic keratoses are not cancerous but can share some features with malignant lesions. They can be hard to tell apart from skin cancer, so it is essential to see a doctor about any new or unexplained lesions.

Seborrheic keratoses are harmless lesions that appear on the skin, especially as people get older. They can occur anywhere on the body except the soles of the feet and palms of the hands.

They may be yellow, brown, tan, or skin-colored. Some look black but are, in fact, dark brown. They may be raised as if stuck onto the skin, but some are flat.

It can be hard to tell the difference between seborrheic keratoses and skin cancer. For this reason, a person should see a doctor if they notice a new lesion or if a lesion changes in any way.

Seborrheic keratosis: Symptoms, treatment, and causes

Seborrheic keratoses are common, harmless, noncancerous growths on the skin. They usually appear as tan, brown, yellow, gray, or very dark brown warty growths ‘stuck onto’ the back, shoulders, chest, or face.

Also known as basal cell papilloma or seborrheic warts, seborrheic keratoses can appear anywhere on the skin except the palms, soles, and mucous membranes. They often appear on the scalp, trunk, neck, arms, and legs and sometimes occur on the face. Some look black but are, in fact, very dark brown.

Seborrheic keratoses can look like warts but are different from warts. Warts result from a virus, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV). Seborrheic keratoses are unlikely to stem from HPV or another virus, according to Dermnet NZ. They are not contagious.

Seborrheic keratoses tend to appear from middle age onwards. Some individuals may have just one, but there will usually be several. Seborrheic keratosis is not contagious.

Over 80 million people in the United States have seborrheic keratoses. They can occur at any age but are most common after the age of 50 years.

Seborrheic keratoses may look like warts, moles, or skin cancer.

They can have the following features:

• Color: Tan, brown, yellow, gray, or skin-colored; some are very dark brown but may appear black.
• Location: Commonly on the trunk, scalp, trunk, neck, limbs, and sometimes the face. They do not affect the soles of the feet or palms of the hands.
• Texture: Can be “waxy” in appearance or rough and crusty, like a barnacle.
• Raised or not: Can look as if “stuck onto” the skin, but some are flat.
• Size: From a pinpoint to over 1 inch (around 2 millimeters to 3 centimeters) across.
• Shape: Usually round or oval.
• Sensation: Not painful but may itch or become irritated.
• Number: Ranging from one to hundreds of lesions.
• Growth: Lesions usually start as small, rough bumps and gradually get thicker and develop a warty surface. They grow slowly.

Some lesions can be light-colored and flat, like a solar lentigo, which is also known as a sunspot or “liver” spot.

On darker skin, seborrheic keratoses present similarly but are more likely to be the darker brown type.

Seborrheic keratosis lesions are rarely painful but can be annoying, depending on their position. It is important not to pick or scratch them as this can lead to bleeding, swelling, and potentially, infection.

There are many types and subtypes of seborrheic keratoses, including stucco keratoses and dermatosis papulosa nigra.

Stucco keratoses are multiple small, light tan papules or bumps with a rough texture, specifically around the lower legs and ankles.

Dermatosis papulosa nigra appears as multiple small, dark pigmented papules or bumps. Lesions often appear on the face. They tend to affect people with brown or black skin.

It can be difficult to distinguish between seborrheic keratoses and skin cancer lesions. For this reason, anyone who notices new lesions or skin changes should see a doctor.

If they already have a diagnosis, they should request an appointment if the following occur:

• a large number of growths grow in a short space of time
• the borders around the growths are irregular or blurred
• the growths are irritated by clothes and regularly bleed, as removal may be an option
• growths or sores develop and do not heal
• the growths are an unusual color, for instance, purple, reddish-black, or blue
• there is itching or irritation

People with multiple seborrheic keratoses may wish to make a yearly appointment with a dermatologist to check for changes that could be cancerous.

How do you know if a lesion is cancerous?

In most cases of seborrheic keratosis, no further treatment is necessary.

However, a doctor may recommend removing the growth in the following cases:

• It is hard to distinguish from skin cancer or the diagnosis is uncertain.
• The individual does not like it and wants to remove it.
• It causes itching or irritation, or clothing and jewelry rub against it.

If the dermatologist carries out a biopsy, they will usually remove the seborrheic keratosis at the same time.

There are several ways to remove seborrheic keratoses.

Cryosurgery

A doctor applies liquid nitrogen to the growth with a spray gun or cotton swab. The lesion freezes and falls off in a few days. A blister may form that will eventually dry into a crust and fall off.

However, the lesion can grow back, and changes in pigmentation can also occur.

How can cryosurgery treat a wart?

Skin shaving (shave excision)

A doctor shaves off the lesion with a scalpel without touching the layers beneath the skin’s surface. The collected cells can then go to a laboratory for a biopsy.

Electrocautery, curettage, or both

In electrocautery — also known as electrosurgery — the surgeon uses an electric current to burn (cauterize) the growth, under a local anesthetic. In curettage, a doctor uses a curette — a scoop-shaped surgical instrument — to scrape off the burnt growth.

A doctor will usually apply a local anesthetic to numb the area. On the face, however, they will use a lower current and will not numb the area.

Some people need only electrocautery, some need curettage, and others need both.

Laser therapy

The doctor uses a laser to remove the lesion.

Laser treatment can be ablative or nonablative. Ablative surgery removes the top layer of skin and heats the underlying layer to stimulate the growth of new collagen fibers. Nonablative surgery is less invasive and works by stimulating the growth of new collagen.

Topical treatments

Researchers are currently looking into options for topical applications to remove seborrheic keratoses.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a 40% hydrogen peroxide solution for raised keratoses that appears safe and effective. Minor adverse effects may occur, such as scaling, inflammation, and changes in skin color.

Chemical peels are also available. A doctor applies a peel containing trichloracetic acid to the lesion.

All these methods have disadvantages, such as:

• irritation and discomfort in the area during recovery time
• changes in pigmentation, where the skin becomes lighter or darker
• the need for several sessions, as a doctor may be unable to remove all lesions in one intervention.
• recurrence of growths or lesions continue to appear in other areas

There are no proven home remedies for seborrheic keratoses.

Lemon juice or vinegar can irritate the skin, possibly causing the lesion to dry and crumble. However, there is no evidence that this is safe or effective.

Some substances, such as tea tree oil, can trigger allergic contact dermatitis, an immune system reaction that causes itching and inflammation around the site.

Anyone with concerns about a lesion should see a doctor, who can check that it is not melanoma and advise on treatment, if appropriate.

Dermatologists are not certain why seborrheic keratoses develop.

Possible causes and risk factors include:

• Skin damage: Some types of seborrheic keratoses appear after dermatitis or sunburn.
• Genetic factors: Scientists believe a genetic mutation could be responsible when people develop a high number of seborrheic keratoses or when they run in families.
• Age: They are more common in those aged 50 years or above.
• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light: Similarities with solar lentigo suggest UV light may play a role.
• Medication: People who use epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors to treat cancer may have a higher risk of warty growths.
• Skin friction: This may increase the risk and explain why they often appear in skin folds.

Seborrheic keratoses do not appear to be linked to any viral infection.

The authors of a 2016 research article note that seborrheic keratoses have “virtually no malignant potential.”

In rare cases, however, a sudden onset of numerous seborrheic keratoses may be linked to underlying malignancy, such as cancer in the gastrointestinal tract, lymphoma, or leukemia. In this case, it is known as Leser-Treélat sign.

Sudden eruptions of numerous seborrheic keratoses can also occur in pregnancy, during chemotherapy, and with various inflammatory skin disorders.

To diagnose seborrheic keratosis, a physician or dermatologist:

• will ask about symptoms and family and medical history
• will carry out a visual and physical examination
• may recommend a biopsy to rule out skin cancer and remove a growth at the same time
• may recommend further tests to rule out other conditions

A lesion with the features of seborrheic keratosis is unlikely to be skin cancer.

However, since it can be hard to distinguish between skin cancer and seborrheic keratoses, it is best to check with a doctor, especially if multiple lesions appear in a short time or if lesions change.

If the doctor suspects melanoma or is unsure, they may recommend a biopsy for examination under a microscope.

Seborrheic keratoses rarely become cancerous, but they share genetic features with some types of cancer. Researchers believe the gene process used by the lesions could help scientists learn more about certain types of cancer.

Here are some answers to questions people often ask about seborrheic keratoses.

How do you get rid of seborrheic keratoses?

In most cases, seborrheic keratoses do not need treatment, but a person may opt to remove them if they snag on clothing or feel unsightly. A doctor may remove one while taking a biopsy for skin cancer. Options include minor surgery, laser therapy, and cryotherapy. A doctor can advise on the best approach.

What do seborrheic keratoses look like?

Seborrheic keratoses can be skin-colored, tan, brown, yellow, gray, or very dark brown that may appear black. They can look waxy or rough, like a wart. Some are raised, as if stuck onto the skin, while others are flat. The size can range from a pinpoint to over 1 inch (around 2 millimeters to 3 centimeters) across. They usually grow slowly.

Are seborrheic keratoses serious?

Seborrheic keratoses are not cancerous but can share some features with malignant lesions. They can be hard to tell apart from skin cancer, so it is essential to see a doctor about any new or unexplained lesions.

Seborrheic keratoses are harmless lesions that appear on the skin, especially as people get older. They can occur anywhere on the body except the soles of the feet and palms of the hands.

They may be yellow, brown, tan, or skin-colored. Some look black but are, in fact, dark brown. They may be raised as if stuck onto the skin, but some are flat.

It can be hard to tell the difference between seborrheic keratoses and skin cancer. For this reason, a person should see a doctor if they notice a new lesion or if a lesion changes in any way.

How to remove irritation after waxing?

Skin irritation is a completely natural reaction of the skin to hair removal using tweezers, a razor, an electric epilator or waxing. Any of the above manipulations has a traumatic effect on the skin and the activity of the hair follicles (the razor does not affect the hair follicle). Waxing is a popular cosmetic procedure for removing hair in unwanted places. Master inflicts […]

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Skin irritation is a completely natural reaction of the skin to hair removal using tweezers, a razor, an electric epilator or waxing. Any of the above manipulations has a traumatic effect on the skin and the activity of the hair follicles (the razor does not affect the hair follicle).

Waxing is a popular cosmetic procedure for removing hair in unwanted areas. The master applies heated wax to the prepared skin, grabbing the hairs, and then with a quick movement rips off the strips of wax before it sticks to the skin. Under the influence of temperature, the hair canal of the bulb opens and easily releases the hair. After several sessions, the activity of the bulbs is greatly reduced.

The advantages of this procedure are relatively low cost and smooth skin effect for 2-3 weeks. The quality of the wax also plays an important role: a good material firmly grips the hairs and provides perfect smoothness of the skin with a minimum of discomfort.

But as a result of wax exposure, dryness, peeling, redness and irritation can appear on the skin. Sensitive skin is most susceptible to irritation (face, bikini area, armpits), since the high temperature of the wax and the mechanical effect on the upper layers of the epidermis provoke a number of reactions.

Causes of irritation

Consider the most likely factors that provoke the appearance of irritation on the skin after waxing.

• Microtrauma. The impact of wax at the time of removal has a traumatic effect on the nerve endings, which provokes a natural local reaction in the form of erythema. Microscopic abrasions on the surface of the epidermis after manipulation can lead to redness, dryness, itching of especially sensitive skin.
• Pollution. If, in addition to red dots after waxing, there are minor inflammatory elements containing pus on the skin, it is likely that the epilation provoked damage to the epidermal barrier and disrupted the natural bacterial flora. Perhaps there was an infection due to non-compliance with the rules of asepsis and antisepsis.
• Ingrown hair. The problem of ingrown hairs can be a consequence of waxing, as a rule, if there is a thickening of the stratum corneum of the skin and the natural desquamation process is disturbed. In this case, the cells of the epidermal layer are updated too slowly, and the hair begins to grow in the skin. As a result, small inflammations and dark spots are formed.
• Allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergy to waxing include redness, irritation and itching. In extremely rare cases, a rash, swelling or blisters join the above symptoms. Such reactions can be provoked by synthetic allergenic components of waxes that are too budget. Professional quality waxes often do not cause any allergic reactions.
• Burns. Burning may result from excessively high temperatures of the wax formulation in contact with the skin.

How to avoid irritation (pre-treatment steps)

To ensure that the reaction of the skin to the waxing procedure is minimal and painless, it should be prepared in advance. The following are distinguished as preparatory stages for wax depilation:

1. Exfoliation. Timely exfoliation of keratinized skin with a scrub or hard washcloth is the best preventive measure for ingrown hairs.
2. Moisturizing. With increased post-epilation dryness and flaking, increased attention should be paid to intensive moisturizing of the skin on the eve of the procedure. Daily application of a moisturizing cream (should be smeared twice a day) 1 week before waxing will avoid skin tightness, discomfort and prevent the formation of cracks, respectively, the risk of unpleasant post-procedural reactions will be minimized.
3. Absorption. On the eve of hair removal with wax strips, it is important to treat the skin with powder or talc. Talc is an absolute absorbent that absorbs moisture and disinfects the skin. Talc also provides a protective barrier between the skin and the wax paste, which prevents the wax from sticking to the skin and protecting it from damage.

How to relieve irritation (after treatment)

After waxing, if any injuries or damage appear on the surface of the skin, the depilation areas should be treated with antiseptic agents. To accelerate the regeneration of the skin and to relieve redness, it is recommended to apply panthenol.

Avoid contact with alcohol-containing products, aggressive soap solutions and exclude insolation and warming procedures for the first 2 days after waxing.

It is also an important recommendation to apply moisturizers to the waxed areas to maintain water balance and restore the lipid layer of the skin. From irritation, the use of powder or talc is indicated.

3 tips on how to remove redness after depilation

Skin irritation after epilation is an unpleasant phenomenon that is well known to girls with sensitive skin. If you are thinking about how to remove redness after hair removal at home, use our tips, just keep in mind that the use of non-professional products may not give a quick effect.

1. Apply ice to the area of ​​irritation, after wrapping it in a napkin or towel made of natural fabric. The cold will constrict the blood vessels and the redness will go away.
2. Make a compress from chamomile decoction: boil the inflorescences in a glass bowl, cool to room temperature, soak a napkin in the decoction and apply to redness.
3. If cold and compresses do not help, and you are still wondering how to get rid of irritation after epilation, use an ointment with benzene peroxide or chitosan, such as Bepanthen or D-Panthenol.

How to quickly soothe the skin?

Specialists of Aesthetic Service recommend to use for elimination of symptoms of skin irritation and for skin care after waxing:

Laser Doctor regenerating serum cream (Korea) . The tool has a pronounced soothing and anti-inflammatory effect. The composition contains EGF, snail mucus filtrate, caviar extract, collagen and elastin, due to which, when applied to the skin, rapid healing and regeneration is achieved, skin is nourished and moisturized, any manifestations of itching, burning, redness can be easily removed.

Tebiskin Cera-Boost Body nourishing softening body cream (Italy) . A complex of ceramides, palmitic acid, cholesterol and phytosphingosine help to restore the damaged barrier properties of dry and damaged skin. The tool instantly eliminates itching, redness and peeling of the skin, allows you to make it soft and smooth.

Tebiskin UV-Sooth sunscreen moisturizer for sensitive skin SPF 50+ (Italy). The product is recommended for skin prone to allergic reactions, as well as after any traumatic cosmetic procedures. Dimethylsulfone and hyaluronic acid help to get rid of itching, redness, accelerate the regeneration of the epidermis, moisturize the skin. A high UV protection factor prevents the appearance of age spots after the traumatic effects of wax.

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Effective ways to remove wax, paraffin, stearin stains

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22 July 2020 23:42

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Household

This article provides tips for removing candle, wax, paraffin, or stearin stains from furniture, carpet, clothing, tablecloths, leather, glass, and candlesticks. We will tell you how to remove stains from a multi-colored candle and remove wax from hair .

During Christmas or carnival parties, romantic dinners or dates, we are happy to light decorative or ordinary candles to create a unique atmosphere.

Unfortunately, it often happens that a melted candle leaves a greasy stain that cannot be easily removed. Solvents containing chemical compounds can destroy the cleaned surface, spoil the varnish and the color of the coating.

Here are some tips on how to deal with grease stains left by candles: paraffin, wax, stearin.

Melted candle stains on ceramics

Place a soiled object, such as a plate, in a bowl of hot water. Wax, paraffin will quickly soften and begin to separate. Rinse off the residue from the candle with dishwashing liquid.

Candle stains on wooden furniture and floors

Do not scrape paraffin or wax from furniture with sharp objects to avoid scratches. Cool the stain on wood furniture with an ice cube placed in a plastic bag, or blow cold air from a hair dryer onto the stain. Hard wax is easier to remove. Remove the rest of the wax with a dull knife, wooden or plastic spatula.

In addition, you can:

• Remove wax stains from wood with a swab dipped in sunflower oil.
• Remove residue from colored candles with warm alcohol vinegar.
• Thin the wax with turpentine, however, it may damage the paintwork.

Paraffin, wax stains on carpet or upholstery

Be careful not to crush the hot wax on the surface of the carpet or upholstery!

Clean it carefully so that it does not rub into the fibres. Use a clean cloth or sponge for the remaining stain and pour hot water over it. Quickly soak up the remaining melted wax, then wipe the carpet with a swab soaked in warm water with dishwashing liquid or alcohol.

Paraffin and wax stains on plastic

Cool the wax, then scrape it off with a wooden spatula or the blunt side of a knife. Wash off the residue with warm vinegar and a small amount of detergent.

Candle stains on tiles

Remove wax with a wooden or plastic spatula. Wash off the residue with a sponge dipped in hot water. The strips are removed with warm alcohol vinegar.

Paraffin and wax stains on wallpaper

Do not heat the wax with a hot iron or hair dryer, so that it does not soak deep into the wallpaper. The stain can be easily wiped off with the rough side of a dishwashing sponge.

Candle stains on clothes or tablecloths

Sometimes a candle can stain a tablecloth, favorite sweater, jacket or trousers. Of course, stains can be removed, but certain rules must be followed:

• Warm wax or paraffin should never be scratched to avoid rubbing into fabric fibers or leather.
• Never iron colored wax, even through tissue paper, as it leaves greasy stains that must be removed with white spirit.

Put the stained clothes or tablecloth in a plastic bag in the freezer to harden the wax. After that, take the item out of the refrigerator and carefully remove the wax by prying it with your fingernail or spoon, but do not rub. If there is no room in the freezer, place an ice cube on the wax stain (preferably in a plastic bag).

You can easily get rid of the wax stain at temperatures of 60°C and above. If the material can only be washed at low temperatures, then you need to turn to other methods.

Wax stains on durable materials can be removed with a swab soaked in turpentine oil or alcohol (color test required).

Candle residue on wool and silk that cannot be scraped off with a swab dipped in pure cologne or alcohol. Wax stains on artificial materials can be removed with laundry soap (preferably liquid).

You can remove colored candle stains with mineral spirits, alcohol or petrol (color test required).

Paraffin and wax stains on leather upholstery

Never scrape warm wax from leather or wash it off with warm water.

• Cool the stain quickly with ice cubes or blow dry with cold air from a hair dryer.
• Carefully remove paraffin, do not use sharp instruments to avoid damaging the skin.
• Dust a greasy stain on the skin with white china clay, corn or potato starch (not flour), talcum powder, white chalk.
• If the clear wax has been absorbed into the skin, heat it up with warm air and gently remove it without scratching.