Dermatosis papulosa nigra is a unique skin condition seen primarily in persons of color. It appears as small, dark bumps and most commonly affects the face, neck, chest, and back.

The cause of dermatosis papulosa nigra is uncertain. There is a strong genetic basis for the disorder, and oftentimes the lesions can be seen in several members of the same family. Under the microscope, the lesions are a type of keratosis that is harmless. Dermatosis papulosa nigra is not a skin cancer, and it will not turn into a skin cancer.

The condition is chronic, with new lesions appearing over time. Bill Cosby and Morgan Freeman are two famous people with this common condition.

Generally speaking, no treatment is necessary other than for cosmetic concerns. In certain circumstances, if the lesions are symptomatic (painful, inflamed, itchy, or catch on clothing), the lesions can be treated via a minor in-office surgical procedure.
At Crutchfield Dermatology we take a great deal of pride in our very effective dermatosis papulosa nigra treatments. Dr. Crutchfield is a board certified dermatologist, graduate of the Mayo Clinic Medical School (1994) and a Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology at the University of Minnesota, who has extensive training in the treatment of dermatosis papulosa nigra including topical medications surgical approaches.
Dr. Crutchfield will carefully evaluate your condition and design a custom dermatosis papulosa nigra treatment program that is just right for you, just as we did for our patients pictured below.