Keratosis

If keratosis is causing discomfort or affecting how you feel about your skin, Northway Clinic is here to help. Our friendly dermatology team will assess the area carefully and explain the next steps clearly.

What is keratosis?

Keratosis is a general term for a group of skin changes that cause rough patches or raised growths. Some types happen when keratin (a protein your skin makes naturally) builds up in the skin.

There are several types of keratosis, and they don’t all affect the skin in the same way. Many are harmless. However, it’s always important to have any skin changes checked. 

Our dermatology team can examine the area and explain which type you have.

Types of keratosis

There are different types of keratosis. Our experts can identify which type you may have.

Actinic keratosis

Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, causes dry or scaly patches on sun-damaged skin. It often appears on exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears or hands.

Seborrhoeic keratosis

Seborrhoeic keratosis is a harmless growth caused by a build-up of ordinary skin cells. It may look waxy or as though it’s stuck to the skin. These growths aren’t infectious and don’t develop into skin cancer. 

A very dark seborrhoeic keratosis can look similar to a melanoma, which is a type of skin cancer, so it’s worth having any brown or black growth checked.

Keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris causes small, rough bumps when keratin blocks the hair follicles, the tiny openings your hairs grow from. It often affects the upper arms or thighs and may feel like goosebumps that don’t go away. The condition is harmless, although you may feel self-conscious about how it looks.

Signs of keratosis

The appearance of keratosis depends on the type you have. You may notice:

• Dry or scaly patches
• Small bumps that feel rough
• Raised growths with a waxy surface
• Areas that are skin-coloured, pink, brown or darker than the surrounding skin
• Itching or tenderness around the affected area

It isn’t always easy to identify a skin growth by looking at it. Please book an assessment if a patch or growth:

• Changes in size or colour
• Becomes painful or sore
• Starts to bleed
• Appears on your lip

Our dermatology team can check your skin and explain what to do next.

What causes keratosis?

The reason keratosis develops depends on the type you have.

Ultraviolet (UV) light damages your skin over many years and causes actinic keratosis. This can come from sunlight or from using sunbeds. It usually affects areas that are regularly exposed, such as your face or hands.

Nobody knows exactly why seborrhoeic keratosis develops. These harmless growths become more common with age, and they can be inherited.

Keratosis pilaris appears when extra keratin builds up and blocks your hair follicles, the tiny openings your hairs grow from. It often runs in families and may become more noticeable when the skin is dry.

Keratosis isn’t caused by poor hygiene, and you can’t catch it from someone else. If you’re unsure why a patch or growth has appeared, our dermatology team can examine it and explain what’s causing the change.

Private keratosis treatment at Northway Clinic

At Northway Clinic, we know that even a harmless skin growth can be frustrating. Our dermatology team will take time to Your treatment will depend on the type of keratosis you have and how it’s affecting your skin. During your consultation, your dermatologist will examine the area and ask about any changes you’ve noticed.

If you have actinic keratosis, treatment may include a prescription cream or cryotherapy, which freezes the patch so it falls away over the following weeks. Your dermatologist may also discuss removing the patch surgically. 

Seborrhoeic keratoses don’t need treatment because they’re harmless, but if one is sore or catching on your clothes, your dermatologist can talk you through having it removed. 

If you have keratosis pilaris, your dermatologist may suggest a skincare routine to soften the bumps and smooth your skin.

We’ll explain the options clearly, including what to expect afterwards, so you can make an informed decision about your care.

Why choose Northway Clinic for your keratosis treatment?

We understand that changes to your skin can feel worrying or affect your confidence. At Northway Clinic, you’ll receive thoughtful care from a friendly dermatology team in a welcoming, comfortable setting.

By choosing Northway Clinic, you’ll benefit from:

• Experienced dermatologists who’ll look closely at your skin
• Personalised advice based on the type of keratosis you have
• Clear explanations about your treatment options
• Convenient appointments at our London clinic
• Support from your first consultation through to aftercare

We’ll take the time to answer your questions so you feel informed throughout.

Skip the phone queues: book your private keratosis treatment online

If your consultation is covered by private medical insurance, please contact us via phone or email.

Access tailored keratosis treatment in London

If keratosis is causing discomfort or you’re concerned about a change in your skin, our dermatology team is here to help. We’ll examine the area and talk you through the treatment that may suit you. 

Book your dermatology consultation with our team today.

Keratosis frequently asked questions (FAQs)