If you spend a lot of time in the sun, then it's likely that you have actinic keratosis. It is basically a precancerous lesion that presents itself as rough patches on the skin. Actinic keratosis will usually appear in areas that are often exposed to the sun such as head, neck, arms and face.

This problem is most often seen in older adults because it takes a while to develop. For this reason it is important to treat actinic keratosis as soon as it is diagnosed. If it goes untreated, the lesions will begin to grow.

Learning How to Prevent Actinic Keratosis

This type of lesion can easily be prevented if you take precautionary measures and protect your skin from the sun. It is crucial that you learn how to limit your skin's exposure to the sun. The best way of protecting your skin from the sun is by using sun block or sunscreen. Remember to reapply frequently.

You can also protect your skin by wearing protective gear like wide brimmed hats and long sleeve shirts. Also look for shady places to rest if you plan on staying outdoors for extended periods of time. You should also stay away from tanning beds and tan accelerating products.

Actinic Keratosis Symptoms

Actinic keratosis skin is characterized by dry or scaly patches of skin. These lesions can be flat or slightly raised and may vary in color from pink to red to brown.

They are also relatively small and may itch or burn. Removing one of these patches will not remove the problem. Without real treatment, the lesions will only grow back.

By limiting your exposure to the sun, actinic keratosis lesions will begin to subside. However, once you've increased your exposure to the sun, they will quickly grow back. If you suspect, at any point, that you may have actinic keratosis, consult with your doctor.

How to Treat Actinic Keratosis

The first step to treating actinic keratosis usually begins by limiting the person's exposure to the sun. Then the doctor will indicate the best type of treatment for that person by removing a lesion and sending it be biopsied.

Depending on the results of the biopsy, the doctor will either indicate cryosurgery or dermabrasion. In some cases topical chemotherapy drugs may also be used to treat the lesions. In some cases prescribed drugs may be used help the immune system reject precancerous growths.