What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a scaled, rough, crusty lesion that grows on the skin in areas that are exposed to the sun. It frequently appears on the lips, face, scalp, ears, shoulders, and other areas frequently exposed. Typically, the regions affected will have several lesions. As such, the plural of this skin condition is called actinic keratoses. These lesions grow slowly with time and may vanish and reappear. They are often uncomfortable, itchy, and become inflamed. During a comprehensive skin evaluation, a member of the Mountain View Dermatology and Aesthetics team will examine the lesion, sometimes implementing dermoscopy. This skin ailment is considered precancerous so it could be a cause of concern if it isn't treated and can become cancer. Elimination of the lesion(s) will probably be advocated and discussed during your exam in Tucson, AZ.
What are the Treatment Options for Actinic keratosis?
Getting an early diagnosis and treatment at Mountain View Dermatology and Aesthetics is vital in ensuring that actinic keratosis does not progress to cancer. The best treatment option for you will hinge on various factors, including your age, health, skin color, and the severity of your condition. Dr. Marc I. Epstein or a member of his team may suggest one of several treatments: cryosurgery, which employs liquid nitrogen to eliminate lesions; electrodesiccation and curettage, a procedure that involves scrapping the skin down to a healthier layer; prescription medications that diminish the appearance of lesions while minimizing scarring; chemical peels that encourage new skin growth by removing the unhealthy top layer of skin; or photodynamic therapy (PDT), a two-step process where a medication sensitizes the affected area to light, followed by exposure to a specific light that interacts with the medication to destroy actinic keratosis.
What are the symptoms of actinic keratosis?
In the beginning, you might notice a change in the texture of your skin, transforming into a rough surface. The symptoms of actinic keratosis advance, and various signs begin to unfold, making it essential to keep an eye on any evolving skin conditions. Here are the typical stages you might experience:
- Sudden itchiness accompanied by inflammation
- Change in skin texture
- Reddish appearance
- Development of a scaly and bumpy surface
- Inflammation and growth
Mountain View Dermatology and Aesthetics Reviews
Really happy with my results from Opus and BBL. I bought a package of 3 Opus treatments and could see a major difference after the first treatment. Shelley changes up the laser settings depending on the results I'm going for and I don't have the long downtimes I was experiencing with other treatments. Also found some incredible sunscreen.
Excellent
I would like to thank Dr. Epstein for helping me get my life back. I went first to see him a couple of months ago. I was in desperate need for help for my hands and face, they were so bad I felt like a monster. I had no idea I had a staph infection until he did a culture on me. On the 1st day I went to go see him, oh and btw, I had call left a voicemail and I got in the next day after I had told them it was an emergency. Thank you staff! 💕 Dr. Epstein and Rebecca were both amazing. I was in tears coming in and I left in tears when I came back for a follow up, Dr, Epstein is a miracle worker. My eczema was gone!!! I couldn’t believe it! I can’t say enough about Dr. Epstein and everyone in his office. I will forever be thankful, I can’t express myself enough. This man is truly amazing. If there was 100 stars ⭐️ I’d rant and rave about him and give him 1000 more stars! I am truly blessed to have met Dr Epstein and his staff for taking the time to get me back to myself again. I will always recommend him. Much love to you all and God bless. 💜🙏💕💕💕
I have used this business for over 10 years and Shelly is wonderful. I trust her experience with anti-aging lasers and topical applications. She truly cares about her clients.
Good service and very friendly staff!
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Schedule Your Consultation
When you have lesions that you believe may be linked to sunlight exposure and could be actinic keratosis, we recommend calling our Tucson, AZ practice, Mountain View Dermatology and Aesthetics, to arrange your consultation. Almost all AKs may be eliminated if identified and treated promptly. Our team will thoroughly evaluate your skin and supply the greatest possible recommendation for a lasting result.