Scaly overgrowths: what they are and what to do

Spotted a rough, scaly bump on your skin and not sure if it's serious? Scaly overgrowths is a simple way to describe common skin changes like flakes, thick patches, or wart-like bumps. Most are harmless, but a few need treatment or a check-up. This page helps you tell the usual types apart, care for them at home, and know when to see a clinician.

Common types you should know

Seborrheic keratosis: These look like stuck-on, waxy bumps that can be tan, brown, or black. They’re usually painless and common with age. They rarely cause problems but can rub on clothing and get irritated.

Actinic keratosis (solar keratosis): Caused by sun damage, these feel like rough, scaly patches. They can be pink or brown and often occur on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, and hands. Actinic keratoses can sometimes turn into skin cancer, so they need evaluation.

Psoriasis: This shows up as red, thick, scaly plaques, often on elbows, knees, scalp, or lower back. Psoriasis can be itchy or sore and may come and go. It’s an immune-related condition, so treatments aim to calm inflammation.

Eczema and dry skin: Flaky, scaly patches can come from dry skin or eczema. These are usually itchy and respond to moisturizers and steroid creams when needed.

Warts: Caused by a virus, warts are usually rough and can be scaly. They may cluster or spread, especially on hands and feet.

Simple care and when to see a doctor

Home care first: Keep the area clean and moisturized. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cream twice daily. For stubborn dry patches, try an ointment with petroleum jelly. Avoid picking or scraping — that makes irritation and infection more likely.

Sunscreen matters: Protect sun-exposed skin with SPF 30+ and a hat. Regular sun care lowers the chance of actinic keratoses and other sun-related damage.

Treatments you might see in clinic: Doctors remove or treat growths with cryotherapy (freezing), curettage (scraping), topical creams, or light-based therapies. For psoriasis, options include topical steroids, vitamin D creams, or prescription pills and injections for severe cases.

See a clinician if a scaly spot: grows fast, bleeds, becomes painful, changes color or shape, or won’t improve after a few weeks of home care. Also get checked if you have many new lesions or a history of skin cancer. Early evaluation is simple and can prevent bigger problems.

Quick checklist: photograph new spots, protect skin from sun, moisturize daily, and book a skin check for suspicious changes. If you want, bring your photos to the appointment — they help track change over time.

Got a scaly patch you’re unsure about? Talking to a dermatologist or your primary care provider is the fastest way to get peace of mind and the right treatment.