Actinic Keratosis or AK is a precancerous skin condition affecting a large number of people in the United States. It is a common growth on the skin that appears as red or brown, irregular spots or patches that are usually scaly or rough to the touch. AK is caused by excessive exposure to sunlight or indoor tanning equipment such as a tanning bed. This exposure leads to the skin absorbing harmful UV light, causing discoloration or the development of rough, scaly patches on the skin.At Alliance Dermatology, we understand the importance of treating AK, which is why we are dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for this condition. Our team of board-certified dermatologists uses advanced technology and techniques to diagnose and treat AK effectively.‍

Signs and Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis
AK appears most often on the face, ears, hands, or balding head, and it may be mistaken for age spots. In some cases, AK can appear severely raised, patchy, or scaly. In rare situations, an AK may even look like a small animal horn, which requires immediate intervention from a medical professional as it may indicate potential squamous cell carcinoma.When AK occurs on the lips, it can look like dried or chapped lips that do not heal or have scaly white patches on the lips. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it's essential to seek the help of a board-certified dermatologist immediately.‍

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

‍Treating Actinic Keratosis
The treatment for AK depends on various factors, such as the number of AKs present on the skin, where they are located, and what they look like, among other factors. At Alliance Dermatology, our team of board-certified dermatologists will conduct a thorough examination of your skin and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.For those with a few AKs, easy procedures in a doctor's office may suffice. At-home treatment may also be recommended for those with several AKs. Some of the treatments we offer for AK at Alliance Dermatology include:- Cryotherapy: A doctor “freezes” the area by spraying it with liquid nitrogen.- Chemical peel: A medical-grade chemical peel is used to destroy the top layer of skin.- Curettage: The top layer of the AK is scraped, typically followed by electrodesiccation, which uses heat to destroy AK cells.- Laser resurfacing: Most often used on actinic cheilitis, a precancerous growth found on lips.Our team of board-certified dermatologists at Alliance Dermatology is dedicated to providing safe and effective treatment for AK. We use advanced technology and techniques to treat AK effectively and prevent its recurrence.‍

Conclusion‍

At Alliance Dermatology, we understand the importance of treating AK effectively. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for AK using the latest technology and techniques. Our team of board-certified dermatologists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.