Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a simple, cost-effective natural remedy that some people use to treat seborrheic keratosis (SK), a common non-cancerous skin growth.
This traditional home remedy is believed to work by using its natural acids to break down excess keratin in the raised lesion, helping it gradually dry out, darken, and eventually fall off over time.
While scientific studies are limited, many Earth Clinic readers have reported success using ACV for seborrheic keratosis when it is applied carefully, monitored closely, and used alongside guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. ...
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a simple, cost-effective natural remedy that some people use to treat seborrheic keratosis (SK), a common non-cancerous skin growth.
This traditional home remedy is believed to work by using its natural acids to break down excess keratin in the raised lesion, helping it gradually dry out, darken, and eventually fall off over time.
While scientific studies are limited, many Earth Clinic readers have reported success using ACV for seborrheic keratosis when it is applied carefully, monitored closely, and used alongside guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
CRITICAL MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
Seborrheic keratosis (SK) can sometimes resemble serious skin conditions, including melanoma. It is essential that you consult a dermatologist to confirm your diagnosis before attempting any home treatment. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.
Reader Results at a Glance
Many readers report that seborrheic keratosis spots darken and scab within 3–10 days of ACV application.
Lesions often dry out and fall off over 1–3 weeks.
Pink or lighter new skin is common after the SK detaches.
Most common side effect: stinging or irritation. Most serious: burns if ACV is left on too long.
Why Apple Cider Vinegar Works for Seborrheic Keratosis
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which may break down keratin buildup and gradually remove seborrheic keratosis. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties may also benefit the skin and reduce infection risk.
Exfoliates dead skin and reduces lesion thickness.
Balances skin pH to discourage excess keratin production.
Reduces redness due to mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Prevents infection with antimicrobial properties.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Treat Seborrheic Keratosis
Use raw, unfiltered, organic ACV for best results.
1. Direct Application Method
Apply undiluted ACV with a cotton ball or Q-tip.
Keep it on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse.
Repeat twice daily until the lesion dries and detaches.
2. ACV and Bandage Method
High risk of burns—use extreme caution.
Apply ACV to a cotton pad and secure with a bandage.
Leave on for 1–2 hours only at first.
Do not sleep with ACV applied until you know your skin tolerance.
3. Diluted ACV for Sensitive Areas
Mix 1 tbsp ACV with 3 tbsp distilled water.
Use near eyes or other sensitive skin regions.
Apply twice daily with a Q-tip.
⚠️ Precautions, Side Effects, and Burns
Always patch test ACV and wait 24 hours.
ACV can cause chemical burns. Stop immediately if blistering or intense pain occurs.
Do not apply to broken, irritated, or infected skin.
Reduce frequency or dilute ACV if irritation occurs.
Seek medical care if the lesion changes color, shape, or does not improve.
Who Should Avoid Apple Cider Vinegar
People with extremely fair or sensitive skin.
Those prone to keloids or hypertrophic scarring.
Anyone using topical steroids or medications that thin the skin.
Individuals with eczema or dermatitis near the lesion.
Anyone with a growth that is bleeding, multicolored, irregular, rapidly growing, or itchy.
Areas Where ACV Should Not Be Used
Eyelids or lash line
Lips or inside the mouth
Inside nostrils
Genitals or groin
Very large or inflamed lesions
Treating Multiple Lesions at Once
Treat only 1–3 lesions at a time to reduce irritation.
Add more lesions only after observing how your skin reacts.
If you have many SKs, medical removal may be a better choice.
What to Expect and How Long It Takes
Lesions may darken or scab within 3–10 days.
Drying, shrinking, and flaking usually occur over 1–3 weeks.
New skin appears pink or lighter and may take weeks to months to blend in.
Sun exposure during healing increases risk of dark spots.
Aftercare: Protecting Your Skin After ACV Treatment
Do not pick the scab—let it fall off naturally.
Apply aloe vera, vitamin E, or a gentle moisturizer to soothe skin.
Use petroleum jelly if the skin is tender or raw.
Protect healing skin from sun exposure to prevent discoloration.
Stop ACV and seek help if redness, pain, or infection occurs.
Conventional Medical Treatments
Dermatologists commonly remove SKs using fast, effective methods:
Cryotherapy: Freezing with liquid nitrogen.
Curettage: Scraping the lesion off.
Electrocautery: Burning the growth.
Additional Natural Remedies for Seborrheic Keratosis
Castor Oil + Baking Soda: Apply overnight.
Tea Tree Oil: Diluted application for irritation control.
Vitamin E Oil: Supports healing and reduces scarring.
Aloe Vera Gel: Hydrates and soothes.
When to See a Doctor
Rapid changes in size, color, or shape.
Bleeding, pain, or persistent irritation.
No improvement after several weeks of careful treatment.
Any uncertainty about whether the lesion is truly an SK.
Final Thoughts
Apple cider vinegar is a popular, affordable natural remedy for seborrheic keratosis. However, its effectiveness is based on anecdotal reports rather than clinical research. If you want immediate or guaranteed results, medical removal is the most reliable option. If you try ACV, proceed with caution and consistency.
Keep reading below to see how Earth Clinic readers have successfully used ACV for seborrheic keratosis. Have you tried this remedy? Share your experience in the comments!
