Early detection of actinic keratosis is vital for protecting your skin. This common precancerous condition results from prolonged sun exposure, and while it may seem harmless at first, it can lead to more severe concerns if left untreated. Recognizing the signs early on can make all the difference in finding the right actinic keratosis treatment. Here’s what to watch for.
Common Signs of Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis often starts as small, rough patches of skin. These patches are typically dry and scaly, appearing in areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the face, scalp, ears, neck, forearms, and hands. They may vary in color, from flesh-toned to pink, red, or brown.
Here are some of the most common signs of actinic keratosis to look for:
- Rough, scaly patches – The skin’s texture often feels like sandpaper. These patches can be small, but they may grow over time.
- Flat or slightly raised bumps – Unlike moles or warts, actinic keratosis typically appears as flat lesions or elevated bumps.
- Crusty or scabby spots – The affected area may sometimes feel crusty or develop scabs.
- Itching or burning sensations – While most actinic keratosis spots are painless, some may cause mild discomfort, itching, or a burning sensation.
- Persistent growth – These patches don’t usually go away on their own and may get worse with more sun exposure.
Differentiating Actinic Keratosis from Other Skin Conditions
Actinic keratosis can resemble other skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic keratosis, but there are key differences.
- Eczema causes red, inflamed patches that may be moist or itchy, but it’s not typically rough like actinic keratosis and can appear anywhere on the body.
- Psoriasis produces thick, raised plaques with silvery scales commonly found on the elbows and knees, while actinic keratosis is more localized to sun-exposed areas.
- Seborrheic keratosis appears waxy and smooth, often darker in color and looking “stuck on,” unlike actinic keratosis’s rough, gritty texture.
Unlike these conditions, actinic keratosis is more common in areas frequently exposed to the sun, and the lesions tend to feel rough, with a color range from pink to brown. Over time, these spots can develop crusts or scabs.
Professional evaluation is essential, as actinic keratosis can be mistaken for other issues. Consulting with a skin care expert and board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Artur Henke at Placer Dermatology can help you get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
When to Seek Treatment
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, scheduling an appointment for actinic keratosis treatment is a good idea. Early intervention is essential because untreated actinic keratosis can develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
At Placer Dermatology & Skin Care Center, you can find minimally invasive treatments for actinic keratosis. These include cryotherapy to freeze the lesions, chemical peels to remove the unhealthy skin layer, and laser skin resurfacing to destroy affected cells.
Other options, such as curettage, surgically remove visible AKs, while photodynamic therapy combines a particular solution with light to target and destroy unhealthy skin cells. Additionally, topical prescription creams can be used to eliminate the lesions gradually.
With personalized treatment plans, Placer Dermatology ensures that each patient receives the care they need to prevent further complications and maintain healthy skin.
Schedule a Consultation
Identifying actinic keratosis early on can protect your skin and reduce your risk of more severe conditions. If you’re noticing rough, scaly patches or persistent growths on your skin, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Dr. Henke at Placer Dermatology to learn more about our actinic keratosis treatment at our Roseville, CA, practice.