Actinic Keratosis

Chronic sun exposure, especially in patients of light complexion, permanently damages the skin. In addition to causing lines, wrinkles and premature aging, this damage can lead to precancerous growth of the skin called actinic keratosis.

Actinic keratoses appear as small pink to red patches with firm, adherent white scale on chronically sun-exposed skin surfaces such as the face, ears, neck, hands and arms. Actinic keratosis (AKs) can progress to skin cancer if left untreated, hence the term “pre-cancer.”

Did you know…

Actinic keratosis is a chronic condition that can be effectively controlled through regular treatment by a dermatology provider in addition to avoidance of excessive sun exposure. Over the counter supplementation with a B-vitamin, niacinamide (nicotinamide), can mitigate precancerous growth such as AKs.

Frequently
Asked Questions

How are AKs treated?

Actinic Keratosis is most commonly treated with cryotherapy, wherein liquid nitrogen is used to freeze off the top few layers of skin that contain the precancerous growth. For extensive occurrence, topical medications such as 5-fluorouracil, or light-based treatments such as photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be utilized. Actinic keratosis may progress to a type of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, if left untreated. In cases where an actinic keratosis appears thickened or painful, a dermatologist may perform a biopsy to determine whether it has progressed to skin cancer that would require more definitive treatment.

What recovery can be expected after treatment?

Cryotherapy produces slight discomfort for a short time, after which treated sites may feel itchy or irritated. After several days, the treated layers of skin will shed, possibly leaving a small crust or scab that remains for several more days before complete resolution. Use of topical medications or PDT often produce redness, discomfort or even scabbing as the precancerous growths are destroyed. Complete healing of the skin, with an improved appearance as compared to the same skin pre-treatment, occurs within a week.

Will I need multiple visits to the dermatology office?

Actinic keratosis is a chronic condition. Even with meticulous use of sunscreen and avoidance of sun exposure, as well as effective treatment of existing lesions by a dermatologist, reoccurrence of precancerous growth in nearby patches of chronically sun-exposed skin is the rule. Periodic examination every 3, 6 or 12 months by a dermatologist is usually necessary.

Experience Tailored Skincare.
Begin Your Transformation Today.

In-Network Insurance Providers