What is actinic keratosis?

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a skin condition that develops due to sun damage. It causes scaly, rough, or bumpy patches on the skin.

AK is more common in people who:

• Spend a lot of time outdoors, especially during their youth – People who work outside, such as farmers and lifeguards, have a higher risk of AK.

• Have fair skin and hair.

• Have freckles.

• Sunburn easily.

• Have skin that does not tan easily.

AK is more common in older people because sun damage accumulates over time. Although anyone can get AK, it is more common in males than in females.

Having one or more painful sunburns in your life increases your risk of developing AK.

Common areas where AK occurs include:

• Scalp, especially in people who are bald or have thinning hair.

• Face.

• Side of the neck.

• Backs of the hands and forearms.

• Legs or feet, especially in females.

Symptoms of actinic keratosis

AK is a skin condition that appears as an abnormal area of skin. The affected skin can have one of the following characteristics:

• Red and scaly

• Red, thick or crusty

• Smooth and red

• Sticking up, pointed, and hard like a fingernail

AK can also occur on the lip, causing a rough, dry, or scaly spot, which may lead to cracking or sores.

Actinic keratosis treatment

Some cases of AK can resolve on their own, but this is more common in younger individuals. Most AK cases require treatment, as untreated spots can grow, spread, and develop into skin cancer.

The appropriate treatment for AK depends on the size of the affected area, its location on the body, and the number of spots present. Doctors can use one of the following methods to treat AK:

• Cryotherapy: A special cold liquid (liquid nitrogen) is used to freeze off the AK.

• Procedure: Special tools are used to scrape and burn or “cauterize” the AK off.

• Topical medication: A strong cream or gel containing medicine can be applied to the AK to get rid of it. If there are multiple spots in an area, the doctor may recommend applying the cream or gel to the entire area.

• Chemical removal: The AK can be removed with a strong chemical.

• Light therapy: A doctor applies a cream to the skin, which makes it sensitive to a special kind of light. Then, they shine the special light on the skin.

Actinic keratosis prevention

Here are some tips to help prevent AK:

• Avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

• Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

• Wear protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, or long skirt when outside.

• Avoid using tanning beds.

Remember, even if you have already received treatment for AK, it is important to continue protecting your skin to prevent further damage.