What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly, crusty lesion that develops on sun-exposed skin such as the lips, face, scalp, ears, and shoulders. These precancerous spots often appear in multiples and can be itchy or inflamed. At Mountain View Dermatology and Aesthetics in Tucson, AZ , Dr. Marc I. Epstein and his team diagnose and treat actinic keratoses early to help prevent them from progressing to skin cancer.
Request an AppointmentWhy Actinic Keratosis Should Be Treated
During a skin evaluation at Mountain View Dermatology and Aesthetics, our team carefully examines lesions and may use dermoscopy to aid in diagnosis. Because actinic keratosis is considered a precancerous condition, untreated lesions may progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. For this reason, removal of the lesions is often recommended and discussed during your visit. Having actinic keratoses is also a sign of significant sun damage, which means regular full-body skin exams are especially important.
What Are the Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis?
Symptoms often begin subtly and may progress over time. Many patients notice an AK by touch before they can see it. Common signs include:
- A rough, sandpaper-like patch that may come and go
- Sudden itchiness or irritation, sometimes with inflammation
- Red, pink, tan, or discolored patches of skin
- A scaly, crusty, or bumpy surface
- Thickened or enlarging lesions
- Dry, scaly lips, known as actinic cheilitis
A lesion that becomes tender, bleeds, grows quickly, or feels thick and firm should be evaluated promptly, as these can be signs of progression.
Who Is at Risk?
Actinic keratosis is caused by cumulative ultraviolet exposure from the sun or tanning beds. Risk is higher for people who are over 40, have fair skin, light eyes, or hair that is blond or red, have a history of sunburns, spend a lot of time outdoors, or have a weakened immune system. In Tucson, AZ , where intense sunshine is part of daily life, actinic keratoses are one of the most common reasons patients visit our office.
What Are the Treatment Options for Actinic Keratosis?
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing actinic keratosis from developing into cancer. The most suitable option depends on your age, health, skin type, and the number and severity of lesions. Dr. Marc I. Epstein and his team may recommend one or more of the following:
- Cryosurgery: Uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy individual lesions
- Electrodesiccation and curettage: Scrapes the lesion down to a healthy layer of skin
- Prescription medications: Topical field therapies treat visible and invisible damage across a larger area
- Chemical peels: Remove the damaged top layer of skin to promote healthy new growth
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): A two-step treatment involving a light-sensitizing medication followed by targeted light exposure to destroy lesions
For patients with widespread sun damage, field treatments can address many lesions at once and improve overall skin quality.
Protecting Your Skin After Treatment
Once your actinic keratoses are treated, daily sun protection helps prevent new lesions. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing, and avoid peak sun hours. Our team can recommend medical-grade sunscreens on our Skin Care Products page. For lingering sunspots and uneven tone, cosmetic treatments such as BBL Hero, the Contour TRL laser peel, and laser skin resurfacing can refresh sun-damaged skin. Rough, waxy growths may also be seborrheic keratoses, which are benign. Explore other conditions we treat.
Actinic Keratosis FAQs
Is actinic keratosis cancer?
Actinic keratosis is a precancerous condition. It is not cancer, but untreated lesions can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, so treatment is often recommended.
What causes actinic keratosis?
AKs are caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds, which damages skin cells over time.
Where does actinic keratosis usually appear?
AKs typically develop on sun-exposed areas such as the face, lips, ears, scalp, neck, shoulders, forearms, and backs of the hands.
Does actinic keratosis treatment hurt?
Most treatments cause only mild, temporary discomfort such as stinging or redness. Your provider will explain what to expect for your chosen treatment.
Can actinic keratosis come back?
Treated lesions usually resolve, but new AKs can develop on sun-damaged skin. Regular skin exams and sun protection help catch and prevent new lesions.
What is photodynamic therapy?
PDT uses a light-sensitizing medication applied to the skin, followed by exposure to a specific light that destroys precancerous cells.
How do I schedule an evaluation?
Call (520) 881-8161 or request an appointment online.
Protect Your Skin From Precancer
Rough, scaly spots should not be ignored. Call (520) 881-8161 to schedule an actinic keratosis evaluation at Mountain View Dermatology and Aesthetics.