Sebaceous Hyperplasia Treatment in London

Precise removal of small, yellowish dome-shaped bumps caused by overactive sebaceous glands — with fractional CO₂ laser for accurate, controlled vaporisation and minimal downtime.

Face-safe Pin-point accuracy Minimal bleeding Fast healing
Close-up of sebaceous hyperplasia bump before treatment

What is Sebaceous Hyperplasia?

Benign enlargement of oil glands that looks like soft, yellowish papules, often with a central dip. Common on the forehead, cheeks, and nose.

Harmless but bothersome: texture and cosmetic concerns are the main reasons for treatment.

Distinct from milia or warts: accurate diagnosis ensures the right approach.

Our clinician will assess lesions first. If atypical, we may recommend dermoscopy or biopsy rather than removal on the day.

Best Treatment Options

Fractional CO₂ Laser (Preferred)

Allows pin-point ablation of the lesion while sparing surrounding skin. Typically a single session per lesion; multiples may be treated in one visit.

  • Topical anaesthetic used for comfort
  • Immediate flattening; tiny scab forms
  • Downtime: usually 3–7 days per site
Learn about CO₂ laser

Alternative: Electrocautery

Heat coagulates and shrinks the lesion. Effective for selected cases; slightly more lateral heat spread than CO₂.

  • Good for small clusters
  • Similar aftercare to CO₂

Alternative: Topicals

Prescription retinoids may help reduce new lesions over time. They don’t remove established papules quickly.

  • Often adjunctive for prevention
  • Used after lesion clearance

What to Expect

On the dayCleansing, photography, consent. Topical anaesthetic 20–30 mins. Targeted CO₂ passes to flatten lesion(s).
Immediately afterPin-point frosting/char that forms a small scab. Mild redness.
Downtime3–7 days per treated site. Do not pick. Gentle cleanse + SPF 50.
ResultsTypically visible once the micro-scab detaches. Some lesions may need a second pass at review.

Consultation & Pricing

Pricing depends on number, size, and location of lesions. We’ll confirm a treatment plan and quote at your consultation.

  • Single lesion: from £
  • Multiple lesions (same area): from £
  • Follow-up tidy pass (if required): from £

Clinic: 33 Thurloe Street, South Kensington, London.

Related

FAQs

Is CO₂ laser safe for sebaceous hyperplasia?
Yes, when performed by trained clinicians. We use conservative, focal passes to vaporise the lesion while protecting surrounding skin.
Will it leave a scar?
Tiny scabs are expected and usually heal flat. Any residual pinkness fades over weeks. Scarring risk is low but not zero; aftercare reduces risk.
How many sessions will I need?
Most lesions resolve in a single visit. Dense clusters or thicker papules may need a second tidy pass.
Can lesions come back?
Treated lesions typically don’t return, but new lesions can form elsewhere over time. Topicals like retinoids may help reduce future occurrence.
Is it suitable for darker skin tones?
Yes, with tailored settings and strict sun protection. We discuss PIH risk and mitigation during consult.