Actinic keratosis (also known as solar keratosis) is a common skin condition caused by long-term sun exposure. It appears as rough, scaly patches on the skin and is most often found on areas regularly exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, ears, hands, and forearms.
While actinic keratoses are not skin cancers, they are considered pre-cancerous lesions. Early assessment and appropriate treatment are important, as a small proportion can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
At Southface Dermatology Clinic, actinic keratosis is assessed and managed by a Consultant Dermatologist, ensuring accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and long-term skin health monitoring.
What Is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis develops as a result of cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure over many years. The damage caused by the sun leads to abnormal growth of skin cells, resulting in rough, scaly, or crusted patches.
These lesions may:
- Feel rough or gritty, like sandpaper
- Be skin-coloured, red, pink, or brown
- Come and go over time
- Occasionally itch, sting, or become tender
Some actinic keratoses are easier to feel than see, which is why professional skin assessment is important.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Actinic keratosis is more common in individuals who:
- Have fair skin
- Have a history of significant sun exposure or sunburn
- Spend a lot of time outdoors for work or leisure
- Are over the age of 40
- Have a weakened immune system
However, actinic keratosis can occur in anyone with sufficient cumulative sun exposure.
Why Is Treatment Important?
Although many actinic keratoses remain stable, some can progress into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. It is not possible to predict which lesions will change, which is why early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are recommended.
Treating actinic keratosis also helps improve overall skin health and can reduce the development of further sun-related damage.
How Is Actinic Keratosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made through clinical examination by a Consultant Dermatologist. In some cases, dermoscopy may be used to examine the lesion in greater detail. If there is any uncertainty, or if a lesion appears suspicious, a skin biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
How Southface Dermatology Can Help
At Southface Dermatology Clinic, management of actinic keratosis is tailored to the individual, taking into account the number of lesions, their location, skin type, and overall sun damage.
Treatment options may include:
- Cryotherapy (freezing the lesion)
- Topical treatments to treat visible and early, unseen lesions
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) for field treatment of sun-damaged skin
- Surgical removal or biopsy where necessary
Your Consultant Dermatologist will explain the most appropriate treatment options, expected outcomes, and aftercare clearly and thoroughly.
Ongoing Monitoring and Prevention
Because actinic keratosis reflects cumulative sun damage, ongoing monitoring is important. Patients may be advised to:
- Attend regular skin checks
- Perform self-examinations at home
- Use daily broad-spectrum sun protection
- Adopt sun-safe behaviours year-round
Southface Dermatology Clinic provides long-term care and follow-up, ensuring any new or changing lesions are identified early.
Specialist-Led Skin Care You Can Trust
At Southface Dermatology, all assessments and treatments for actinic keratosis are consultant-led. This ensures accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and a personalised approach focused on both treatment and prevention.
If you have noticed rough or scaly patches on your skin, or have concerns about sun damage, a professional assessment is an important first step in protecting your skin health.