Pigment spots and seboorhoeic keratoses

Removal of seborrhoeic keratoses (which used to be called ‘senile warts’)

Seborrhoeic keratoses are benign spots on the skin that usually appear from the age of 40. They can cause itching. Seborrhoeic keratoses may be removed by freezing (cryotherapy) or scraping/curettage (excochleation).

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a treatment in which the seborrhoeic keratoses are frozen. By freezing, the abnormal skin dies off and will subsequently be replaced by healthy skin. After treatment, there will be a scab on the skin that needs to heal. This takes about 1 to 2 weeks. The underlying skin has often a light or pink colour. This is new, healthy skin that will slowly obtain a normal skin tone. This ‘new’ skin must be protected from the sun for four weeks.

Excochleation

Excochleation is a treatment in which the seborrhoeic keratosis scraped off using a sharp knife or spoon-like instrument. As this is superficial treatment, the risk of scars is low.

Removal of pigment spots by means of cryotherapy

Pigment spots are dark-brown spots on the skin caused by excessive accumulation of pigment in certain places in the body.
Cryotherapy is a treatment in which the pigment spots are frozen. By freezing, the abnormal skin dies off and will subsequently be replaced by healthy skin. After treatment, there will be a scab on the skin that needs to heal. This takes about 1 to 2 weeks. The underlying skin has often a light or pink colour. This is new, healthy skin that will slowly obtain a normal skin tone. This ‘new’ skin must be protected from the sun for four weeks.
One of the complications in cryotherapy may be that the treated skin becomes permanently lighter than the surrounding skin. In consultation with the dermatologist, the skin therapist will determine whether your pigment spots are suitable to be treated with cryotherapy

Deep cleansing/microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical form of exfoliation that can be used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, acne and pigment discolorations. Dermabrasion removes dead skin cells layer by layer, revealing a new, soft, smooth and glowing skin. This treatment also stimulates the growth of new cells as well as collagen, and has a lifting effect. The skin may be slightly red and sensitive after treatment. You are advised not to expose your skin to the sun during the first two weeks after treatment.

Frequently asked questions about pigment spots and seboorhoeic keratoses

Do seboorhoeic keratoses need to be removed?

Seboorhoeic keratoses are benign skin changes and in principle do not need to be removed. Removal is only necessary if they cause symptoms, such as itching or bleeding, or if you find them cosmetically disturbing.

How are seboorhoeic keratoses removed?

Seboorhoeic keratosescan be removed by freezing (cryotherapy) or by spooning them away superficially (excochleation). At MC Wetering, we are happy to consider which method is most appropriate on a case-by-case basis.

Is microdermabrasion painful?

Microdermabrasion is generally not experienced as painful. After treatment your skin may be temporarily red or sensitive, this usually disappears after 24 hours.

Do you need multiple microdermabrasion treatments?

Multiple microdermabrasion treatments are often needed for best results. How many treatments are needed depends on the skin problem. Our doctors are happy to discuss in advance how many treatments are most appropriate in your situation. The average number of treatments is around 6.

What does microdermabrasion do?

Microdermabrasion removes the upper layers of skin and stimulates the production of new skin cells. The treatment makes the skin smoother and more even. Microdermabrasion is suitable for superficial wrinkles, acne, pigmentation spots, coarse pores and scars.

Removal of seborrhoeic keratoses

20 minutes (up to 5 verrucae): € 45,-
45 minutes (maximum 20 verrucae): € 90,-

Removal of pigment spots in the face

1-3 pigment spots €100.00
3-6 pigment spots €150.00

Any questions?

If you have any questions, please contact us during consultation hours at 020 8203465.