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Seborrheic keratoses are skin lesions that are often described as having a "stuck on" appearance due to their slightly elevated surface and waxy, often flaky texture. They commonly appear in a range of colors, from light tan to dark brown, and can vary in size. These benign growths are typically seen in older adults and are not associated with cancer. Their distinctive look is a result of their composition, which includes a proliferation of keratinocytes that gives them that characteristic appearance.

This description contrasts sharply with basal cell carcinoma, which generally presents as a translucent bump or a sore that doesn’t heal; malignant melanoma, known for its irregular borders and color variations; and squamous cell carcinoma, which often appears as a scaly, red patch, an open sore, or a wart-like growth. All these other conditions have different clinical features and implications for management compared to seborrheic keratoses. Understanding these differences helps in recognizing and diagnosing skin lesions appropriately.