The exact mechanism by which hydrogen peroxide treats seborrheic keratoses is unknown. However, topical treatment is thought to result in dissociation of the chemical into water and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), which results in skin cell death [11].
After 3 weeks, lesions that had not cleared, based on the Physician's Lesion Assessment (PLA) scale, were retreated; 97% of patients required retreatment. The primary efficacy endpoint was the percentage of patients with all 4 lesions graded clear on the PLA scale after 106 days.
Hydrogen peroxide is used to treat raised seborrheic keratoses (waxy and scaly, raised areas of skin). This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Freezing a growth with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy) can be an effective way to remove a seborrheic keratosis.
According to yet another embodiment the method is used in treating a dermatological disorder of hyperkeratinization by removing the keratin from a zone on skin by the method of alkaline hydrogen peroxide treatment described.
Some topical products that treat seborrheic keratosis are available without a prescription, including 0.1% tazarotene cream and alpha hydroxy acid products. A person who wishes to treat their condition at home should speak with a doctor for a recommendation.
After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot the skin with a towel so that some moisture remains. Try medicated creams. Apply a nonprescription cream that contains urea, lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acid or salicylic acid. These creams help loosen and remove dead skin cells.
Dry skin tends to make keratosis pilaris worse.
Doctors aren't sure what causes seborrheic keratosis, but there is very likely a genetic component—certain genetic mutations have been linked to the condition. Sun exposure and changes in estrogen levels have also been linked to seborrheic keratosis.
There are no proven home remedies for seborrheic keratosis. Lemon juice or vinegar used by some may irritate and possibly cause the growth to dry and crumble, but there is no evidence that this is safe or effective. Also, it can cause substantial irritation and pain.
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. blistering of the skin.
Don't use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing. Applying petroleum jelly while the skin heals can help prevent or reduce scarring. Avoid DIY if Large or Painful. If your skin growth is large, painful or located in a sensitive area, do not attempt to remove it at home.
The FDA has recently approved a topical solution of 40% hydrogen peroxide to treat seborrheic keratosis. (Over-the-counter hydrogen peroxide is a 1% solution.)
► Exposure to Hydrogen Peroxide can cause headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
Sometimes a seborrheic keratosis can itch. Scratching it can cause it to bleed and sometimes even scar. A seborrheic keratosis is removed only if it bothers you. The doctor will freeze it or scrape it off with a tool.
Although diet is not a cause of keratosis pilaris, intake of foods contributing to inflammation, may lead to or worsen the symptoms, so it is advisable to avoid foods causing inflammation. Those with keratosis pilaris should avoid the consumption of dairy products, soy, peanuts, trans fats, sugar and processed foods.
You may cover the area with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a non-stick bandage. Apply more petroleum jelly, and replace the bandage as needed. Avoid using an antibiotic ointment unless your doctor recommends it.
Keratosis pilaris may have a link to vitamin A deficiency. Taking vitamin A supplements or using moisturizers or creams with small amounts of vitamin A may help treat keratosis pilaris.
Medicines. If you have several actinic keratoses, your health care provider might prescribe a medicated cream or gel to remove them, such as fluorouracil (Carac, Efudex others), imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara) or diclofenac. These products might cause inflamed skin, scaling or a burning sensation for a few weeks.
Only certain types of proteases, called keratinases, are able to cleave the peptide bonds within the keratin structure. Due to this outstanding activity, keratinases have potential application in industries such as livestock, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.