Actinic keratosis can be identified by the bumps or patches that can be seen leveled and flattened on the skin with think, crusty, or scaly surface. Other terms used to refer to this condition are senile keratosis and solar keratosis. Besides from the term sun spot, another typical term for this is precancerous spot. The abbreviated term for this is “AK.” Its size differs from pinhead-like size to over one inch across. It can be seen as light or dark, or a combination of red, tan and pink.

One can easily recognize actinic keratosis by means of touch rather than sight. The crust or the scale that is formed by this condition is like a horn, rough, and dry. A scorching sharp pain can be sensed most of the time. Those individuals who have the tendency to be exposed to the sun, itchiness can be experienced. Body parts that are most of the time exposed to the sun are where actinic keratoses may display in clusters. Most common areas are backs of hands, lips, face, ears, neck, foreams, and bald scalp.

Since having this condition may be a manifestation of cancer development, it is considered as a dangerous skin condition. Granting that there is early cancer detection and medical assistance is undergone, this cannot be threatening to one’s life. The infection may be worsened as the tissues around it are invaded if there will be no medical attention given.

Damage coming from the sun to the skin can be accumulated over time. Keep in mind that reflective surfaces bounce off UV rays. Fair-skinned people are responsive to this kind of condition. Susceptible also are those who have blonde or red hair, and gray, blue, or green eyes. This is so due to low pigments that protects their skin from sunburns. As long as there is high exposure to the sun, this condition is possible even for those who are dark-skinned.

Actinic keratosis can be removed via different treatments. Nonetheless, removal of all actinic keratoses is not always necessary. One of the most utilized treatment for this is cryosurgery. Liquid nitrogen is applied in order to freeze off lesions. Utilized here is an applicator with a cottop tip or a special spray device.

If there are many lesions, an effective treatment is through applying keratosis removal cream. Another way is through chemical peels or curettage where scraping of lesion is done.

Generally, it is highly advised by many skin doctors to seek them first if you want to learn more regarding this condition.

Tags: age spots, keratosis treatment, skin care, skin treament