05/25/2026
Actinic Keratoses (AKs) are more than just “rough spots.”
They develop from long‑term UV exposure—whether from the sun or tanning beds—and signal cumulative sun damage to the skin.
✨ Treatment is not one‑size‑fits‑all.
Care is personalized based on the number of lesions, location, skin type, and patient preference. Common options may include:
• Cryotherapy (freezing individual spots)
• Topical prescription treatments to address broader sun‑damaged areas
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT) for multiple or recurrent AKs
• Laser or procedural treatments, sometimes used in combination
🔎 What to watch for:
Any spot that keeps returning, feels persistently rough, or doesn’t heal should be professionally evaluated—just as you would monitor changes related to skin cancer.
While not all AKs turn into cancer, some can progress into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) over time. Early detection and treatment matter.
☀️ Bottom line: the more UV exposure your skin has had, the higher the likelihood of developing AKs—especially on frequently sun‑exposed areas like the face, scalp, hands, and arms.
If you’re noticing changes in your skin, we recommend scheduling a full skin exam with your dermatology team.
Image source: Skin Cancer Foundation