Actinic Keratosis 

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous growth on the skin. It is one of the most common skin conditions treated by dermatologists in the United States and it is estimated that some 40 million people experience it each year. These growths appear most often on the face, ears, hands or on a balding head.

AK can appear as red or brown, irregular spots or patches on the skin. They are also sometimes severely raised, patchy, or even scaly.

Causes of Actinic Keratosis

AK is often caused by consistent exposure to the sun or tanning via indoor tanning equipment such as a tanning bed. As the skin is exposed to too much sun over time, it absorbs harmful UV light leading to patches that feel rough and scaly or look discolored.  

 

Some people are at greater risk of being affected by UV rays, including those with fair skin or albinism, red or blond hair, or light-colored eyes. Certain medical conditions can also put someone at higher risk for AK, including being an organ transplant recipient or having a weakened immune system. 

Treatments for Actinic Keratosis

Our team utilizes photodynamic therapy for cosmetically improving the appearance of AK growths. Photodynamic therapy is a procedure involving the application of a light-sensitizing medication (i.e., Levulan), followed by exposure to a light source which “activates” the medication.

Click below to learn more about treating actinic keratosis with photodynamic therapy:

Phtodynamic Therapy

For more information or to book actinic keratosis treatment, call or schedule online today!

 

 

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