Actinic Keratoses

Actinic Keratoses (AKs) are rough, scaly patches of skin caused by sun exposure. These pre-cancerous growths can develop into skin cancer if left untreated. At Skinsol Dermatology & Aesthetics, we provide a range of treatment options to effectively remove AKs and prevent further skin damage, preserving your skin’s health.

Causes and Risk Factors

Actinic Keratoses are caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from the sun or tanning beds. The main risk factors include:

  • Excessive sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays, especially without protection

  • Fair skin: People with lighter skin, eyes, and hair are more prone to AKs

  • Age: Individuals over the age of 40 are more likely to develop AKs

  • Weakened immune system: Conditions or medications that impair the immune system increase the risk

  • History of sunburns: Past episodes of severe sunburn raise the likelihood of developing AKs

Early detection and treatment are important to prevent AKs from turning into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.

Diagnosis

Our provider, Victoria McKay, PA-C, will carefully examine your skin to identify any suspicious patches. Diagnostic methods include:

  • Clinical evaluation: Visual inspection of the affected area

  • Skin biopsy: A small sample of the lesion may be taken to confirm the diagnosis

  • Dermatoscopy: A magnified view of the skin to assess texture and pattern

Prompt diagnosis allows for early intervention, reducing the risk of complications.

Treatment Options

At Skinsol Dermatology, we offer a variety of treatment options for Actinic Keratoses, including:

  • Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen to remove it

  • Topical treatments: Creams or gels that target abnormal cells, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)

  • Laser therapy: A non-invasive treatment that uses targeted light to remove AKs

  • Photodynamic therapy: A light-based treatment that destroys abnormal cells

  • Electrosurgery: Using electrical current to remove growths

We customize treatments based on the size, location, and number of AKs, as well as your overall skin health.

FAQs







  • While AKs are not cancerous themselves, they can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent this risk.

  • Using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can help prevent the development of AKs. Regular skin checks are also important.

  • AKs typically do not go away on their own and may even worsen over time. Treatment is necessary to prevent complications.