Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) are benign epidermal growths similar to seborrheic keratoses (SK). These lesions are typically asymptomatic and are most frequently seen on the cheeks. They are much more common in Black individuals and people of Asian descent. It is less frequently described in the White population, where SKs are more common. A 2007 study in Senegal of 30 patients with DPN found a genetic predisposition in 93%.

According to a 2003 study among Afro-Caribbean people, more participants with light phototypes (skin type V or less) had the lowest frequency of involvement. In addition to Black individuals, the condition has also been reported in Filipino, Vietnamese, European, and Mexican individuals.

The onset of DPN is typically during adolescence, and lesions initially look like freckles. Women are affected more often than men. There may be a family history of similar lesions. The number of lesions typically increases with age, peaking in the sixth decade. Up to one-third of Black adults have some of these lesions. Approximately 25% of patients with facial lesions will also have lesions at other body locations such as the neck, chest, and back. DPNs also become larger with age.

DPN is a cosmetic concern only. In contrast to SKs, where rapid onset of numerous lesions can be a cutaneous sign of internal malignancy, multiple DPNs are not related to any systemic disease or syndrome.