The phrase “barnacles on skin” is a common way people describe certain growths that appear on the body, particularly as they age. These growths are harmless and are not actual barnacles, which are crustaceans. This colloquial term refers to Seborrheic Keratosis (SK), a very common type of non-cancerous skin lesion. Understanding their nature provides peace of mind regarding what is often a cosmetic or mild irritation concern. This article clarifies what these growths are, what to look for, and the professional and at-home options for managing them.
Identifying the “Barnacle-Like” Growths
The growths commonly referred to as skin barnacles are medically identified as Seborrheic Keratosis (SK). These are benign skin tumors arising from the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. SK lesions are extremely common, with their frequency increasing significantly after the age of 40. They are not contagious and are non-cancerous.
The characteristic appearance of SK gives rise to the “stuck-on” or “pasted-on” description, often resembling a drop of melted candle wax. SKs vary widely in color, ranging from light tan to dark brown or black. They may begin as flat patches but gradually become raised, developing a rough, waxy, or scaly surface texture.
These growths can appear anywhere, but are most frequently found on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. SKs are sometimes confused with other common skin lesions. Unlike common warts, SKs are not viral in origin. Skin tags are another benign growth, but they hang off the skin on a stalk, differentiating them from the stuck-on appearance of Seborrheic Keratosis.
When Professional Consultation is Necessary
While Seborrheic Keratosis is non-cancerous, any new or changing skin growth should be evaluated by a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis. Dermatologists usually identify SK by visual examination, but they must distinguish them from more serious lesions. The primary concern is ruling out skin cancers like melanoma or Actinic Keratosis, which require immediate medical attention.
You should seek consultation if a growth exhibits suspicious changes. These include rapid growth, a significant change in color, irregular or blurred borders, or asymmetrical shape. The presence of multiple colors within a single lesion is also a warning sign. Any growth that bleeds spontaneously, becomes inflamed, or forms a sore that does not heal should be promptly examined.
Even if the growth is confirmed to be a benign SK, consulting a doctor is important if the lesion becomes irritated, itchy, or constantly rubs against clothing or jewelry. In rare instances, the sudden eruption of many seborrheic keratoses may signal an internal condition requiring investigation.
Medical Procedures for Removal
Removal of Seborrheic Keratosis is generally considered a cosmetic procedure or is performed when the lesion causes chronic irritation. Since the growths are superficial, involving only the top layers of the skin, several minimally invasive options are available. These treatments are typically performed in a dermatologist’s office with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.
Cryotherapy is the most common technique, involving the application of liquid nitrogen to freeze the growth. The extreme cold destroys the cells, causing the lesion to blister and then scab, falling off within a few days to weeks. This method is quick but may result in temporary or permanent skin lightening at the treatment site, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones.
Another effective option is curettage, often combined with electrocautery. Curettage involves scraping the growth from the skin’s surface using a specialized surgical instrument. Electrocautery uses a mild electrical current to burn the tissue, which helps stop bleeding and further destroys the remaining lesion. Laser therapy also utilizes intense light energy to selectively destroy the growth, offering good cosmetic results, and is often used for removing multiple lesions.
Safe At-Home Care and Management
If Seborrheic Keratosis is confirmed as benign and does not cause irritation, no active treatment is medically necessary. Gentle management focuses on reducing friction and keeping the skin healthy. If a growth rubs against clothing or jewelry, covering it with a soft bandage can help prevent irritation and potential infection.
It is strongly advised to avoid any attempts at self-removal, such as picking, scraping, or cutting the lesions at home. These actions can introduce bacteria, leading to infection, and increase the risk of permanent scarring or discoloration. Self-treatment is dangerous because it assumes a correct diagnosis, risking a delay in identifying a potentially serious condition.
Some over-the-counter products containing mild acids, like alpha hydroxy acids, may help exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of smaller lesions over time. However, they are not a substitute for professional removal. Maintaining a consistent moisturizing routine can help keep the skin supple and reduce itchiness or dryness.