Many people are diligent about sunscreen when they head to the beach or pool, but years of cumulative sun exposure can leave lasting effects on the skin long after summer ends.
One of the most common signs of sun damage that dermatology providers diagnose is actinic keratosis, often referred to as AK. While these spots may seem harmless, they are considered precancerous lesions and can sometimes develop into skin cancer if left untreated.
If you have a rough spot that won't go away, a changing lesion, or have not had a recent skin examination, schedule a skin check with the providers at Mt. Lebanon Dermatology Associates and Dermeve. Early detection can make all the difference.
What Is an Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches that develop after years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
They are most commonly found on:
- The face
- Scalp
- Ears
- Nose
- Lips
- Neck
- Chest
- Forearms
- Hands
Many patients describe them as feeling like sandpaper. In fact, patients often feel an actinic keratosis before they can clearly see it.
These lesions develop because UV radiation damages the DNA within skin cells over time. While not every actinic keratosis becomes cancerous, they are considered an early warning sign that the skin has sustained significant sun damage.
What Does an Actinic Keratosis Look Like?
Actinic keratoses can vary in appearance and may be:
- Pink, red, or flesh-colored
- Flat or slightly raised
- Rough or crusty
- Tender or itchy
- Persistent despite moisturizing
Because they can resemble eczema, dry skin, or other benign conditions, many patients are surprised to learn that a seemingly minor rough spot is actually precancerous.
Why Are Actinic Keratoses Important?
Actinic keratoses are considered part of a spectrum of sun-induced skin damage.
Some actinic keratoses can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, one of the most common forms of skin cancer.
Additionally, patients who develop actinic keratoses often have a higher overall risk of:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
For this reason, dermatologists view actinic keratoses not only as individual lesions to treat, but also as markers that a patient may benefit from regular skin cancer surveillance.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Anyone can develop actinic keratoses, but risk increases with:
- Significant lifetime sun exposure
- Fair skin
- Light-colored eyes
- A history of sunburns
- Outdoor occupations or hobbies
- Previous skin cancers
- Weakened immune systems
- Increasing age
However, skin cancer can occur in people of all skin types and backgrounds, which is why regular skin evaluations remain important for everyone.
How Are Actinic Keratoses Treated?
Treatment depends on the number, location, and severity of the lesions.
Common options include:
Cryotherapy
One of the most common treatments involves freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen. The damaged skin then peels away as healthy skin replaces it.
Topical Medications
Prescription creams can be used to treat visible lesions as well as areas of surrounding sun damage that may contain precancerous cells not yet visible to the naked eye.
Photodynamic Therapy
Certain patients may benefit from photodynamic therapy (PDT), which uses a light-activated medication to selectively target damaged cells.
Your dermatology provider can help determine which treatment option is most appropriate for your situation.
Why Regular Skin Checks Matter
Many skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early.
Unfortunately, some skin cancers cause few symptoms during their earliest stages. Patients may assume a spot is simply part of aging, dry skin, or sun damage when it actually requires medical attention.
Professional skin examinations allow dermatology providers to identify concerning lesions before they become larger or more invasive.
At Mt. Lebanon Dermatology Associates and Dermeve, comprehensive skin examinations are performed by experienced providers who are trained to recognize subtle signs of skin cancer and precancerous change.
For patients requiring advanced skin cancer treatment, Dr. Jeremy Udkoff is a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon and board-certified dermatologist who specializes in the precise removal of skin cancers while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Mohs surgery offers some of the highest cure rates available for many common skin cancers and is performed right here in our practice.
Whether you are concerned about a single rough spot or are due for your annual skin check, our team is committed to helping you protect your skin and detect problems early.
If you've noticed a rough or persistent spot, or if it's been a while since your last skin examination, schedule an appointment with Dr. Udkoff or one of the experienced providers at Mt. Lebanon Dermatology Associates and Dermeve today.
