Antioxidant, Keratolytic, and Hydrating Treatment for Seborrheic Keratoses

Seborrheic keratoses (SKs) are the most common skin lesions to prompt visits to a dermatologist. Patients may be concerned about unsightly appearance, irritation, or the possibility of skin cancer. They frequently ask if there is a topical treatment for these lesions.

We sought to determine an effective topical formula to improve the appearance of seborrheic keratosis and test the formula in a pilot observational study on a small number of patients.

A topical mixture of antioxidants, hydrating, and keratolytic agents was applied to five SKs on four patients in a private dermatology clinic. Antioxidants included green walnut hull extract, green tea, ellagic acid from pomegranate, curcumin in turmeric, and rosemary. Urea, salicylic acid, zinc lactate, and glycerin promoted hydration and keratolysis. Lesions were covered with 3M Nexcare® dressings. Softened SK debris was removed with an emery board.

The appearance of the SKs was improved in five cases.

A 5-to-17-day course of a topical mixture composed of antioxidant, keratolytic, and hydrating agents, followed by scooping of softened SK, improved the appearance of 5 SKs. The topical antioxidant mixture reported in this pilot study warrants further investigation. J Drugs Dermatol. 2025;24(2):183-187. doi:10.36849/JDD.7977.