Actinic Keratosis Treatments

Overview

An actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly patch on the skin caused by prolonged sun exposure, commonly appearing on various body parts such as the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck, or back of the hands.

Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratoses are scaly spots or patches that develop on the skin's surface, potentially hardening over time to form a wartlike texture. Known also as solar keratosis, this condition typically emerges gradually, often in individuals aged 40 and older, with preventive measures including minimizing sun exposure and UV protection.

Symptoms

Actinic keratoses present with varying symptoms, including:

• Rough, dry, or scaly patches of skin, typically less than 1 inch in diameter
• Flat or slightly raised patches or bumps on the skin's surface
• Occasionally, a hard, wartlike surface
• Color variations such as pink, red, or brown
• Itching, burning, bleeding, or crusting
• New patches or bumps on sun-exposed areas like the head, neck, hands, and forearms

When to See a Doctor

Due to the challenge of differentiating between benign and cancerous lesions, it's advisable to seek evaluation by a healthcare provider if any scaly spot or patch persists, grows, or bleeds.

Causes

Frequent or intense exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds is the primary cause of actinic keratosis.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase the risk of developing actinic keratoses include:

• Having red or blond hair and blue or light-colored eyes
• History of significant sun exposure or sunburn
• Tendency to freckle or burn in sunlight
• Age over 40
• Residing in sunny areas
• Outdoor occupations
• Weakened immune system

Complications

While early treatment of actinic keratosis can effectively clear or remove the lesions, untreated cases may progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. However, when detected and treated early, this cancer is usually not life-threatening.

Prevention

Practicing sun safety is essential in preventing actinic keratoses. Measures include:

• Limiting time spent in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Applying broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 before going outdoors, and reapplying every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating
• Wearing protective clothing, including tightly woven clothing that covers the arms and legs, and a broad-brimmed hat
• Avoiding tanning beds
• Regularly monitoring the skin for changes and promptly reporting any new growths or alterations to a healthcare provider