Actinic keratoses (AKs) are precancerous lesions often found as scaly, red spots on the face, ears and arms. Sun exposure and genetic predisposition (light skin and eye color in particular) are the two main factors leading to these lesions. Left untreated, about 10 percent of AKs turn into skin cancer or squamous cell carcinomas and require more aggressive therapy, typically surgery.
Treat AKs before they advance by having your skin evaluated by your dermatologist. If only a few AKs are present, cryotherapy—freezing the lesions off—is effective. When many lesions are present topical medications can treat whole areas of skin. Chemical peels, laser resurfacing and light treatments are also available alternative therapies.
Sun protection helps prevent further damage and should include sun protective clothing and midday sun avoidance, in addition to sunscreen use. It’s especially helpful to develop regular protective patterns such as applying sunblock every morning.
Don’t let AKs multiply on your face. See a dermatologist if you find rough spots on your skin.
