What is Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN)?

DPN are small, benign, dark papules common on the face and neck. They are harmless and can be treated for cosmetic reasons.

How do you treat DPN?

We use precise electrosurgery (micro-cautery/electro-desiccation) to flatten or remove lesions with careful technique.

Usually minimal. Pinpoint crusts may form and shed naturally over several days; detailed aftercare is provided.

Will there be scarring or pigment change?

Any skin procedure can mark the skin; technique and aftercare help minimise scarring or post-inflammatory pigmentation.

How much does DPN removal cost?

£150 per area (up to 5cm²). Multiple sessions may be advised for extensive clusters.

DERMATOSIS PAPULOSA NIGRA (DPN)

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a common, benign skin condition characterized by the appearance of small, dark, raised bumps or papules, typically on the face, neck, and upper body. These lesions are often darker in color—ranging from light brown to black—and are more common in individuals with darker skin tones, particularly people of African or Asian descent.

DPN most commonly appears on the cheeks, around the eyes, forehead, and sometimes the neck, chest, or upper back. The lesions are generally small, usually ranging from 1 to 5 millimetres in diameter, but can occasionally grow larger. These lesions are typically asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause pain, itching, or discomfort. They often appear darker in colour compared to the surrounding skin due to the increased melanin content and are primarily a cosmetic concern.

Treatment of Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra is not available on the NHS as they are considered cosmetic. At Astounding Skin Aesthetics we understand the discomfort and self-consciousness that these hyperpigmented lesions can cause. That's why we offer fast and painless removal using electrosurgery with Hyfrecator.

The procedure is quick and straight forward with no downtime and is unlikely to leave a scar. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional care and achieving excellent results.

Dr Chowdhury will inspect your skin during the consultation and confirmed the diagnosis using a dermatoscope before attempting to remove it. He won't perform the removal if he doesn't deem it is safe to do so. A topical numbing cream (if the lesion is small) or a local anaesthetic is applied to numb the skin and minimise discomfort during treatment.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us. We look forward to helping you achieve the look you desire!

BOOK ONLINE CONSULTATION

BOOK TREATMENT

Image of a face with dermatosis papulosa nigra

FAQs

01
The exact cause of DPN is not fully understood, but it is thought to be influenced by several factors:
• Genetics: DPN is often hereditary and tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. It is more common in individuals with darker skin tones.
• Age: The condition tends to develop in adulthood, often beginning in the 20s or 30s, and becomes more prominent as individuals age.
• Skin Type: It is particularly prevalent in individuals with darker skin (Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI)
02
Dermatosis papulosa nigra is a benign (non-cancerous) condition, and the lesions do not pose any health risks. They are purely cosmetic and do not require treatment unless they become bothersome, either due to their appearance or location.

However, DPN lesions can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions like seborrheic keratosis or melanocytic nevi (moles), so it is essential to consult your doctor or a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
03
04
05
06