Our skin works hard every day, protecting us from external harm, helping regulate temperature, and reflecting changes within our bodies. From childhood blemishes to age-related skin growths, most people will notice some skin changes at different points in life. Some might be harmless moles or freckles, while others could be rough patches, dry spots, or raised growths like seborrheic keratosis. While medical advice is always recommended for anything unusual or concerning, many individuals look for natural ways to maintain healthy skin or support mild skin conditions from home.
This article looks at several common skin concerns, particularly seborrheic keratosis, and explores options for managing them naturally, including practical steps and gentle home-based approaches.
Understanding Skin Growths and What They Mean
As we grow older, it’s normal for the skin to change in texture, tone, and appearance. Some of these changes are perfectly harmless, while others may need monitoring. Here are some common types of skin growths:
Moles (Melanocytic Nevi)
Moles are collections of pigment-producing cells and are usually brown or black. They can be flat or raised and vary in size. Most moles are benign, but any that change in shape, colour, or size should be checked by a GP.
Age Spots (Liver Spots)
These flat brown patches often appear on areas exposed to the sun, such as the hands, face, shoulders, and arms. They’re generally harmless but can be cosmetically bothersome for some.
Skin Tags
Small, soft growths that hang off the skin, often found around the neck, armpits, or groin. They are harmless and don’t usually require treatment unless irritated or for cosmetic reasons.
Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratoses are one of the most common non-cancerous skin growths seen in middle-aged and older adults. They tend to appear as waxy, raised, wart-like growths that can range in colour from light tan to dark brown. While they can look concerning, they’re generally harmless but Best Supplements for Skin cure all these issues. However, many people seek ways to manage or reduce their appearance, particularly through natural options.
What Causes Skin Growths Like Seborrheic Keratosis?
There’s no single cause for seborrheic keratosis, but several factors may play a role:
- Ageing: These growths are more common with age.
- Genetics: A family history may increase the likelihood of developing them.
- Sun exposure: Long-term UV exposure might contribute to the development of certain growths.
- Skin type: Fair-skinned individuals may be more prone.
Though seborrheic keratoses aren’t contagious or linked to skin cancer, they can become irritated by clothing or scratching. Many people look for ways to soothe them at home or improve the skin’s overall appearance naturally.
Everyday Habits That Support Healthy Skin
Before exploring specific remedies, building a solid foundation for skin health makes a difference. Here are everyday practices that help maintain healthy skin:
1. Consistent Cleansing
Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants, which can irritate the skin or make existing conditions worse.
2. Moisturising
Dry skin can make existing patches more noticeable. Choose moisturisers rich in ceramides, glycerin, or natural oils like jojoba and almond.
3. Balanced Diet
A diet rich in antioxidants (found in berries, leafy greens, and nuts), healthy fats (from avocados, fish, and seeds), and enough water supports skin regeneration and resilience.
4. Sun Protection
Wearing SPF 30 or higher every day helps reduce the development of sunspots and age-related growths. Physical barriers like hats and long sleeves also help.
Natural Support for Seborrheic Keratosis and Similar Growths
While medical treatments exist — such as cryotherapy (freezing), curettage (scraping), or laser therapy — some prefer exploring home-based support options first, especially for smaller or non-irritated patches.
Here are natural approaches that may help reduce irritation, support skin integrity, or gently manage seborrheic keratosis-like growths over time.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Apple cider vinegar is commonly used in home skin care. It contains acetic acid, which may help break down certain types of surface growths.
How to Use:
- Dilute with equal parts water.
- Soak a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area.
- Leave on for 15–20 minutes and rinse.
- Repeat daily for several weeks.
Note: Always do a patch test first, and discontinue if irritation develops.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil is widely used in skin care. Though research on its effect on seborrheic keratosis is limited, it may help keep the area clean and reduce discomfort.
How to Use:
- Mix 1–2 drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba).
- Apply with a cotton swab once daily.
- Avoid using undiluted tea tree oil on the skin.
3. Castor Oil and Baking Soda Paste
This old remedy has been used by some for non-cancerous growths. Castor oil is soothing, while baking soda has mild exfoliating properties.
How to Use:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of castor oil to make a paste.
- Apply to the affected area and cover with a plaster.
- Leave overnight and rinse in the morning.
- Use consistently over time for gentle results.
4. Aloe Vera
Fresh aloe vera gel is cooling and known for its skin-soothing properties. While not a cure for keratosis, it can help calm irritation and keep skin hydrated.
How to Use:
- Extract gel from a fresh aloe leaf.
- Apply to the area and leave on for 30 minutes or more.
- Repeat twice daily.
5. Green Tea Extract
Green tea contains antioxidants, including EGCG, which supports skin repair and reduces inflammation. It may help calm inflamed or irritated patches and support healing.
How to Use:
- Brew green tea and let it cool.
- Apply with a clean cloth or use as a facial rinse.
- Green tea extract creams may also be beneficial.
For more detailed tips on using nature-based support for keratotic growths, visit our article on natural treatment seborrheic keratosis.
Can You Prevent Seborrheic Keratosis?
Because the cause isn’t fully understood, there’s no guaranteed way to prevent seborrheic keratosis. However, maintaining overall skin health may reduce irritation and help you spot any changes early. Here are a few preventive habits:
- Protect from sun damage using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
- Avoid picking or scratching any raised areas.
- Maintain good hygiene, especially in warm and sweaty areas.
- Use fragrance-free products to reduce the risk of irritation.
When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
While natural remedies can be part of self-care, it’s important to recognise when professional input is needed. Contact your GP or a dermatologist if:
- A lesion bleeds, itches persistently, or becomes painful.
- You notice rapid changes in size, shape, or colour.
- There is any sign of infection or discharge.
- You’re unsure if the growth is truly seborrheic keratosis.
Even experienced clinicians sometimes perform a biopsy to rule out other skin conditions, especially if there is any doubt about diagnosis.
Everyday Skin Maintenance Using Home-Based Remedies
Beyond specific conditions, looking after your skin naturally supports long-term health and can reduce the appearance of age-related changes. Here are simple habits you can adopt:
Use Natural Oils
Coconut oil, argan oil, and sweet almond oil nourish dry skin and support elasticity.
Gentle Exfoliation
Once or twice a week, use a mild natural exfoliator like ground oats or rice flour mixed with yoghurt or honey. This helps remove dead skin cells and allows better absorption of other products.
Stay Hydrated
Drink 6–8 glasses of water per day. Hydration helps flush toxins and maintains the skin’s moisture barrier.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress affects hormone levels, which can show up on the skin. Breathing exercises, gentle movement, and sleep hygiene all contribute to better skin.
The Role of Natural Remedies in Long-Term Skin Care
Home-based skin care offers an option for people who prefer gentle, affordable, and accessible treatments. However, it’s important to approach these remedies with patience. Natural ingredients often take longer to show visible results compared to clinical procedures, but they can still offer comfort and improve skin condition over time.
In addition, consistency matters. Occasional application rarely yields benefits; daily use, combined with healthy habits, offers the best results.
To explore more options for at-home support, visit our dedicated guide on seborrheic keratosis home remedy.
Final Thoughts
Skin health reflects both internal balance and external care. Moles, tags, and keratoses are often just part of ageing skin, but they can still cause concern. By combining healthy daily habits, informed use of natural remedies, and timely medical advice, you can manage these changes confidently.
Stay attentive to your skin’s condition, make gentle adjustments where needed, and always seek help if anything looks or feels unusual. Whether you’re managing small spots at home or maintaining a natural skin routine, your skin will thank you for the care and attention.
