When people refer to "barnacles on human skin," they are typically describing seborrheic keratoses. These are common, non-cancerous skin growths that tend to develop during adulthood.
What Do Seborrheic Keratoses Look Like?
Seborrheic keratoses have a distinctive appearance that often makes them seem as though they are simply "stuck on" the skin, much like a barnacle might adhere to a surface.
Key Visual Characteristics:
- Color: They are most commonly brown, but can also range in color from tan, black, or even appear yellow or white. The color can be uniform or patchy within a single lesion.
- Texture: The surface often has a waxy, scaly, or slightly rough texture. It can feel greasy or crumbly to the touch.
- Shape and Elevation: They can be flat or slightly raised, sometimes appearing dome-shaped. Their "stuck-on" quality is a hallmark, looking like they could be scraped off, although they are firmly attached.
- Size: Seborrheic keratoses vary widely in size, from tiny specks to over an inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
- Location: While they can appear almost anywhere on the body, they are frequently found on the face, scalp, chest, back, and neck. They generally do not appear on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet.
Development and Nature
These growths are generally harmless and are not contagious. They often increase in number and size with age, becoming more prevalent in middle-aged and older adults. While typically benign, some individuals may choose to have them removed for aesthetic reasons, especially if they are prominent or located in visible areas. Removal might also be considered if they become irritated by clothing or jewelry, or if they itch.
For a quick summary of their appearance, refer to the table below:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Skin barnacles, Seborrheic Keratoses, Seborrheic Warts |
| Primary Color | Brown |
| Other Colors | Tan, black, yellow, white |
| Texture | Waxy, scaly, rough, sometimes greasy or crumbly |
| Appearance | "Stuck-on" look, raised or flat, often dome-shaped |
| Size Range | From small specks to over an inch (2.5 cm) |
| Development Age | Typically adulthood (middle-aged and older) |
| Nature | Non-cancerous (benign) and harmless |
| Common Locations | Face, scalp, chest, back, neck |
When to Consult a Doctor
While seborrheic keratoses are usually benign, it's always wise to consult a dermatologist if you notice any new skin growths or if an existing one changes in appearance, color, size, or bleeds, itches, or becomes painful. This is important to rule out other, more serious skin conditions that can sometimes mimic their appearance, such as melanoma.
For more detailed information, reputable sources like the American Academy of Dermatology Association or the Mayo Clinic provide comprehensive resources.
