Seborrheic Keratosis
Natural Remedies

Seborrheic Keratosis - Editor's Choice

| Modified on Jun 10, 2025
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Seborrheic keratosis, a prevalent skin ailment marked by the emergence of benign lesions, often leads to discomfort for many affected individuals. Though these growths are usually non-threatening, numerous people pursue remedies for their elimination due to aesthetic concerns or occasional discomfort. This article delves into various home-based methods for addressing seborrheic keratosis.

Understanding Seborrheic Keratosis

Seborrheic keratosis (SK) appears as brown, black, or pale tan protrusions on the skin. They can surface on any body part, with a higher frequency in sun-exposed areas. Exhibiting a waxy, scaly, and slightly raised texture, these protrusions might seem worrisome but are generally benign. Nevertheless, it's imperative to consult a healthcare professional promptly if you observe any abrupt alterations, such as swift enlargement, bleeding, or a notable shift in color.

At-Home Remedies for Seborrheic Keratosis

Although there is no guaranteed home treatment for seborrheic keratosis, certain methods might aid in lessening symptoms or enhancing the appearance of the skin.

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, a highly acclaimed natural remedy, is frequently employed for treating various skin conditions, including seborrheic keratosis. ACV is thought to act by dissolving the excess keratin responsible for the raised, scaly texture of SK.

To utilize ACV for SK, blend equal quantities of ACV and water. Apply this mixture to the affected area with a cotton ball, letting it sit for a few minutes before washing off with warm water. Repeat this procedure daily until the lesions subside.

Read testimonials from Earth Clinic users regarding the ACV approach for SK.

2. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, a natural essential oil, is recognized for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities. Tea tree oil might be effective against SK due to its ability to combat the bacteria and inflammation linked to the condition.

For tea tree oil on SK, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply to the affected area. Continue this treatment twice daily until the lesions fade away.

3. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera, a staple in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, has shown promise in treating SK. A study in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment indicated that topical application of aloe vera gel reduced the size and thickness of SK lesions over eight weeks. Aloe vera is thought to work by boosting blood circulation to the area and aiding the growth of healthy skin cells.

For SK treatment with aloe vera, apply a small amount of aloe vera gel directly to the lesion and massage gently. Repeat twice daily until the lesions are no longer visible.

4. Vitamin D

Vitamin D, a vital nutrient synthesized by the body under sunlight exposure, has shown potential in treating various skin conditions, including SK. Research, such as a study in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, reveals that topical use of calcitriol, a synthetic vitamin D, lessened the size and thickness of SK lesions over 16 weeks.

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in abundance in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are crucial nutrients. To increase omega-3 intake, consider eating these fish types at least twice weekly or opt for a fish oil supplement rich in EPA and DHA, the key omega-3 fatty acids.

6. Castor Oil

Castor oil, a natural vegetable oil, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. For SK treatment, apply a modest amount of castor oil to the affected area and massage gently. Repeat this application twice a day until the lesions fade.

7. Turmeric

Turmeric, widely used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, can be helpful for SK. Mix a small amount of the powder with water to use turmeric to create a paste. Apply this paste to the SK area and leave for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Conduct this treatment twice a week until you observe an improvement in the lesions.

8. Green Tea

Green tea, abundant in antioxidants, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities. For SK, steep a green tea bag in hot water, let it cool, and then apply it to the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this daily until the lesions vanish.

9. Garlic

Garlic, renowned for its antimicrobial effects, can be effective against SK. Crush a garlic clove, mix with a carrier oil like coconut oil, and apply to the lesion for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. Do this twice weekly until improvement is noticed.

10. Vitamin E

Vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, has anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for skin health. Its topical application may aid in managing SK symptoms.

11. Zinc

Zinc, crucial for skin health, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, potentially benefiting SK treatment.

12. Selenium

Selenium, important for skin wellness, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.

13. Vitamin A

Vitamin A, essential for skin health, shows anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it useful for SK.

14. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, might be applied topically for SK treatment after consulting a healthcare provider.

15. Resveratrol

Found in grapes, berries, and red wine, resveratrol is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.

16. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba, used in traditional Chinese medicine, is recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

17. Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract, a traditional Asian remedy, offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

18. Licorice Extract

Licorice extract, used in traditional Chinese medicine, is valued for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

19. Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola)

Centella Asiatica, known in traditional Malay medicine, is recognized for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.

20. Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood oil, used in Malay and Indian traditional medicine, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Mix with a carrier oil and apply twice daily to the affected area.

21. Tualang Honey

Tualang honey, traditionally used in Malay medicine for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties, can be applied directly to SK lesions.

22. Manuka Honey

Manuka honey, used in Maori and Aboriginal medicine, is known for its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effects. Apply directly to the lesions.

23. Kakadu Plum

Native to Australia, Kakadu plum is celebrated for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties.

24. Pandan Leaves

Pandan leaves, used in Indonesian, Malaysian, and Thai traditional medicine, offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. Boil the leaves, cool the mixture, and apply.

25. Turmeric and Sandalwood Paste

A traditional remedy in Indian, Indonesian, Malaysian, and Thai medicine, this paste combines anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Apply the mixture to SK lesions.

26. Kaffir Lime Leaves

Used in Indonesian, Malaysian, and Thai traditional medicine, these leaves offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Boil the leaves, cool the mixture, and apply.

Additional Tips

Natural remedies may require time to fully heal SK, but improvements are often visible within a week or two.
For those with multiple skin problems, remedies targeting multiple body systems, like Essiac tea, might be beneficial. Castor oil packs over the liver can also aid in detoxifying the body.

Conclusion

Seborrheic keratosis can be addressed with a variety of natural remedies and supplements. These include ingredients like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and more, each offering anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, or wound-healing effects. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have existing medical conditions or are on medication.

Do you know of any natural remedies for seborrheic keratosis? We would love your feedback! Read on to discover how our readers have successfully treated seborrheic keratosis using home remedies!

Resources

  1. Yagnik, D., Serafin, V., & Shah, A. J. (2018). Antimicrobial activity of apple cider vinegar against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans; downregulating cytokine and microbial protein expression. Scientific Reports, 8, 1732. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788933/
  2. Tea tree oil: Carson, C. F., Hammer, K. A., & Riley, T. V. (2006). Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil: a review of antimicrobial and other medicinal properties. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 19(1), 50–62. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1360273/
  3. Aloe vera: Feily, A., & Namazi, M. R. (2009). Aloe vera in dermatology: a brief review. Giornale Italiano di Dermatologia e Venereologia, 144(1), 85-91. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19218914/
  4. Coconut oil: Rele, A. S., & Mohile, R. B. (2003). Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 54(2), 175–192.
  5. Omega 3: Balić A, Vlašić D, Žužul K, Marinović B, Bukvić Mokos Z. Omega-3 Versus Omega-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in the Prevention and Treatment of Inflammatory Skin Diseases. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Jan 23;21(3):741. doi: 10.3390/ijms21030741. PMID: 31979308; PMCID: PMC7037798.
  6. Kang SY, Um JY, Chung BY, Lee SY, Park JS, Kim JC, Park CW, Kim HO. Moisturizer in Patients with Inflammatory Skin Diseases. Medicina (Kaunas). 2022 Jul 1;58(7):888. doi: 10.3390/medicina58070888. PMID: 35888607; PMCID: PMC9315586.
  7. Turmeric: Hewlings SJ, Kalman DS. Curcumin: A Review of Its Effects on Human Health. Foods. 2017 Oct 22;6(10):92. doi: 10.3390/foods6100092. PMID: 29065496; PMCID: PMC5664031. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/
  8. Saric S, Notay M, Sivamani RK. Green Tea and Other Tea Polyphenols: Effects on Sebum Production and Acne Vulgaris. Antioxidants (Basel). 2016 Dec 29;6(1):2. doi: 10.3390/antiox6010002. PMID: 28036057; PMCID: PMC5384166.
  9. Milk thistle: Kroll, D. J., Shaw, H. S., & Oberlies, N. H. (2007). Milk thistle nomenclature: why it matters in cancer research and pharmacokinetic studies. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 6(2), 110–119. https://doi.org/10.1177/1534735407302330
  10. Vitamin E: Keen MA, Hassan I. Vitamin E in dermatology. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016 Jul-Aug;7(4):311-5. doi: 10.4103/2229-5178.185494. PMID: 27559512; PMCID: PMC4976416.
  11. Vitamin D: Topical calcipotriol therapy for mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis and seborrheic keratosis (1998) URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9747886/
  12. Zinc: Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, Chauhan PS. Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatol Res Pract. 2014;2014:709152. doi: 10.1155/2014/709152. Epub 2014 Jul 10. PMID: 25120566; PMCID: PMC4120804.
  13. Vitamin A: Rollman, O., Vahlquist, A. Cutaneous vitamin A levels in seborrheic keratosis, actinic keratosis, and basal cell carcinoma. Arch Dermatol Res 270, 193–196 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00408234
  14. Selenium: Cohen PR, Anderson CA. Topical Selenium Sulfide for the Treatment of Hyperkeratosis. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2018 Dec;8(4):639-646. doi: 10.1007/s13555-018-0259-9. Epub 2018 Sep 10. PMID: 30203232; PMCID: PMC6261123.
  15. Niacinamide: Bissett DL, Oblong JE, Berge CA. Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatol Surg. 2005 Jul;31(7 Pt 2):860-5; discussion 865. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31732. PMID: 16029679.
  16. Resveratrol: Ding XZ, Adrian TE. Resveratrol inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in human pancreatic cancer cells. Pancreas. 2002 Nov;25(4):e71-6. doi: 10.1097/00006676-200211000-00024. PMID: 12409844.
  17. Ginkgo biloba: Chan PC, Xia Q, Fu PP. Ginkgo biloba leave extract: biological, medicinal, and toxicological effects. J Environ Sci Health C Environ Carcinog Ecotoxicol Rev. 2007 Jul-Sep;25(3):211-44. doi: 10.1080/10590500701569414. PMID: 17763047.
  18. Green tea extract: Miyoshi N, Tanabe H, Suzuki T, Saeki K, Hara Y. Applications of a Standardized Green Tea Catechin Preparation for Viral Warts and Human Papilloma Virus-Related and Unrelated Cancers. Molecules. 2020 Jun 2;25(11):2588. doi: 10.3390/molecules25112588. PMID: 32498451; PMCID: PMC7321293.
  19. Licorice Extract: Hoffmann J, Gendrisch F, Schempp CM, Wölfle U. New Herbal Biomedicines for the Topical Treatment of Dermatological Disorders. Biomedicines. 2020 Feb 8;8(2):27. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines8020027. PMID: 32046246; PMCID: PMC7168306.
  20. Centella Asiatica: Bylka W, Znajdek-Awiżeń P, Studzińska-Sroka E, Brzezińska M. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2013 Feb;30(1):46-9. doi: 10.5114/pdia.2013.33378. Epub 2013 Feb 20. PMID: 24278045; PMCID: PMC3834700.
  21. Sandalwood Oil: Moy RL, Levenson C. Sandalwood Album Oil as a Botanical Therapeutic in Dermatology. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017 Oct;10(10):34-39. Epub 2017 Oct 1. PMID: 29344319; PMCID: PMC5749697.
  22. Tualang Honey: Mane S, Singer J, Corin A, Semprini A. Successful Treatment of Actinic Keratosis with Kanuka Honey. Case Rep Dermatol Med. 2018 May 31;2018:4628971. doi: 10.1155/2018/4628971. PMID: 29955399; PMCID: PMC6000848.
  23. Manuka Honey: Burlando B, Cornara L. Honey in dermatology and skin care: a review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2013 Dec;12(4):306-13. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12058. PMID: 24305429.
  24. Kakadu Plum: Tan AC, Konczak I, Ramzan I, Zabaras D, Sze DM. Potential antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and proapoptotic anticancer activities of Kakadu plum and Illawarra plum polyphenolic fractions. Nutr Cancer. 2011;63(7):1074-84. doi: 10.1080/01635581.2011.596646. Epub 2011 Aug 29. PMID: 21875324.
  25. Pandan Leaves: Tsai YC, Yu ML, El-Shazly M, Beerhues L, Cheng YB, Chen LC, Hwang TL, Chen HF, Chung YM, Hou MF, Wu YC, Chang FR. Alkaloids from Pandanus amaryllifolius: Isolation and Their Plausible Biosynthetic Formation. J Nat Prod. 2015 Oct 23;78(10):2346-54. doi: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00252. Epub 2015 Oct 13. PMID: 26461164.
  26. Turmeric and Sandalwood Paste: Palatty PL, Azmidah A, Rao S, Jayachander D, Thilakchand KR, Rai MP, Haniadka R, Simon P, Ravi R, Jimmy R, D'souza PF, Fayad R, Baliga MS. Topical application of a sandal wood oil and turmeric based cream prevents radiodermatitis in head and neck cancer patients undergoing external beam radiotherapy: a pilot study. Br J Radiol. 2014 Jun;87(1038):20130490. doi: 10.1259/bjr.20130490. Epub 2014 Apr 2. PMID: 24694358; PMCID: PMC4075548.
  27. Kaffir Lime Leaves: Tarmizi FSM, Khee HT, Alias A, Li AR, Tarib NA. OSC41: Preliminary Study of the Antibacterial Effects of Kaffir Lime Leaves on Streptococcus Mutans. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2018 Oct;18(Suppl 1):S25. doi: 10.4103/0972-4052.244633. PMID: 30532432; PMCID: PMC6238448.

Related Links:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Uses, Health Benefits and FAQ
Skin Condition Remedies
Tea Tree Oil: A Potent Natural Health Aid
Unlock Castor Oil Benefits: Guide to Hair Growth, Pain Relief, & More!


The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Posted by Steve (Durham, UK) on 03/04/2018
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have had one large area of Seborrhoea Keratosis on my face for nearly 20 years, growing slowly att the time, another one appeared above my eye brow last year, growing quickly. I had them both checked out by my Doctor and specialist, not harmful and no real treatment.

I read about Apple Cider Vinegar and started to apply with a cotton wool ball twice a day, the new growth above the eye brown completely disappeared within 3 weeks, the longer standing growth, after 3 months, most of it has gone and is probably about 10% of what it was and continues to reduce...amazing results!!!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Njd (Nj) on 04/16/2016
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Just adding my results here for anyone interested. I had a seborrheic keratosis on the side of my head. It first appeared out of nowhere about 1.5 years ago as what looked like a small flat discoloration (light brown). Over the course of 1.5 years it slowly grew in size, eventually became raised, and the color turned from light brown to dark brown. Like many seborrheic keratosis, it was also bumpy. I went to two dermatologists within a 1 year span to get opinions. The first one said not to bother with it unless it bothered me (at that time it didn't bother me, but as it grew to about 2cm in dia and became darker/raised, it did bother me). The 2nd dermatologist wanted to cut it off. Both said it would scar if cut off and I would not have hair regrowth in that area. It didn't seem to bother them, because they wouldn't be the ones walking around with a nickel sized bald spot on the side of their head. Neither suggested freezing it, or any other alternatives. Cutting/removing was the only way.

Frustrated, I came online to look for remedies. I tried tea tree oil, and that appeared to be working, but it was a VERY slow process. I read on this site about the Apple Cider Vinegar, so that morning I stopped at ShopRite and got a bottle of (their brand, $1.49) ACV. I dipped a q-tip in it and applied it when I could, but on average probably 3-5 times a day.

Literally, within 3 days the seborrheic keratosis had dried up into a scab-like form. By the end of the 3rd day it was partially peeling already. After 5 days, with my help, it came off completely. After, I did scrub it while in the shower to make sure it was all gone. What was left underneath was a reddish spot. At that time I stopped the ACV and switched to Neosporin twice daily. Today is the 8th day since I began with the ACV. The spot is healing nicely. It is still pink/reddish, but I imagine that will take a while to blend in. Will keep an eye on it, but I think I am cured. Very relieved as I will not be losing a chunk of my hair, and the unsightly growth is gone! Hopefully this helps someone else out there! No more anxiety of having to have a bald spot on the side of my head!


ACV, Hydrogen Peroxide, and Salicylic Acid

Posted by Bruce H (Hastings, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand) on 03/06/2016
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I had a very large (3cm) "verruca seborrehic keratosis" on the back of my scalp and where I am balding. It was dark brown and barnacle like with a cauliflower surface. It caused me no discomfort but family and friends were forever questioning me about this ugly lesion. Because of its size, my skin specialist would not "freeze" it with liquid nitrogen as he said it would require multiple treatments and likely leave me with a cauterised area that would cause more problems than it solved. His solution was excision with a skin graft. I was not too happy with this diagnosis so researched for home remedies such as this site. 3 products were consistently quoted as having success, being Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV), Hydrogen Peroxide, and Salisylic Acid (over the counter wart remover). The common attribute of these products is "acid" which acts as a "keralytic" I.e it thins the skin on the lesion causing it to loosen and shed. My process was as follows:

  • Daily application, for 4 days, of ACV (a soaked cotton wool pad for 10 minutes), then a paint on of Hyd Peroxide 6% solution, followed by the salisylic acid (wart remover)
  • I waited about 15 minutes between the individual applications.
  • I then left it alone until the dead skin started to lift naturally (about 5 days later) and got wifey to pick the whole scab clean with a pair of tweezers.
  • At this point the ugly was as good as gone but I followed up with 3 more days of ACV and Hyd Peroxide 6% solution to kill off any underlying "root" structure. I did NOT reapply the wart remover as it is a very strong acid and I did not want to damage the good skin re growth.
  • My final product was Aloe Vera to the treated area for its known skin repair properties.

Voila...bye bye ugly...gone... and if it wants to come back I will be ready and waiting.

I would stress that you should clearly identify what sort of keratosis you are dealing with as there are many, and some types may not take too kindly to being treated with acid (particularly salisylic acid).

Cheers and good luck.


Eggplant and Vinegar

Posted by Robert Henry (Ten Mile , Tn) on 09/02/2015
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I raise my own egg plant and use them to clean up my ole worn out arms of Keratosis. I missed one spot on the bottom of my arm and added the egg plant mixture to that one spot. I covered it with a sealed bandage and left it for a day and a half. I just took the bandage off and the raised spot was still there. I rubbed it and it came off with no resistance. Right down to the basic skin

It is unbelievable. I suggest folks forget ACV to address their skin cancers by going directly to the Eggplant and vinegar mixture.

None of this is original with me. I bought the book several years ago and Dr Cham's ointment cured two of my skin cancers. I decided to Redneck my arms before they turn to cancer and it has worked for me.

Here is the protocol:

  • Peel an eggplant and churn it up with a blender of some sort.
  • Add white vinegar, refrigerate and stir 2X a day.
  • On the 3rd day add this to your eruptions and cover with shrink wrap and an ole sock before bed.
  • Do this several days until the stuff is nothing but mush, and can be rubbed off with your fingers.

Do not tell your dermatologist what you have done, least he take you before the State Medical Board for practicing medicine without a license.

I have been at this site for many years and love ACV , but, it is not in the running with eggplant as far as skin cancer is concerned. Sorry, that's just the way I am. Old and Ornery as most know.

=========ORH===========



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