Actinic Keratosis

What is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common skin condition that develops after years of sun exposure. It appears as a rough, scaly patch on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, or hands. Though AKs are not cancerous at first, they carry the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

What Do Actinic Keratoses Look Like?

These lesions can vary in appearance, but common characteristics include:

• Dry, rough patches or bumps that feel like sandpaper.
• Scaly, reddish or brownish lesions on sun-exposed areas.
• Flat or slightly raised spots with a crusty surface.
• Lesions that come and go or bleed if scratched.

Why Actinic Keratosis Should Be Treated

Even though AKs are not always cancerous, up to 10% may evolve into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Early removal and regular monitoring significantly reduce the risk of progression. Treatment is especially important for patients with multiple lesions or a history of skin cancer.

How We Diagnose Actinic Keratosis

Our dermatologists use non-invasive tools and expert evaluation to confirm a diagnosis:

• Visual inspection with dermoscopy to assess lesion structure.
• Fotofinder imaging to track skin changes over time.
• Biopsy in cases where the lesion looks atypical or fast-growing.

Actinic Keratosis Treatment Options

Depending on the severity and number of lesions, we offer several effective treatment options:

• Cryotherapy – Freezing off the lesion with liquid nitrogen.
• Topical Medications – Prescription creams that destroy abnormal cells.
• Curettage – Scraping and cauterizing the lesion.
• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) – Light-activated treatment for large or resistant lesions.

Preventing Actinic Keratosis

The best defense is prevention. Our dermatologists recommend:

• Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).
• Wearing protective clothing and hats outdoors.
• Avoiding peak sun hours (10am–4pm).
• Scheduling regular skin checkups for early detection.