Actinic Keratosis Treatment in Bayside, NY

As you age, you may experience scaly, rough patches on your face, hands, and arms. Actinic Keratosis, also known as Solar Keratosis, is a rough patch on the skin that develops because of repeated, prolonged sun exposure. This disorder generally develops in areas that have been exposed to years of damage by the sun.

This is one of the most common skin conditions observed among people in the age group of 40 to 60 years. Fortunately, actinic keratosis treatment options are available to help manage and reduce these patches, improving the health and appearance of your skin.

Actinic Keratosis Causes

Actinic Keratosis or AK is generally caused by overexposure to sunlight. Patients are at a higher risk if they:

Are over the age of 50 years
Have a history of sunburns
Have fair-colored skin
Have human papillomavirus
Have a tendency of getting sunburn

Symptoms of Actinic Keratosis

This skin condition starts out as scaly, thick, crusty skin patches which are usually about the size of a small pencil eraser. The areas where these patches may appear have a burning sensation. These signs may disappear or develop into Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) and there is no way of knowing which lesion may turn cancerous.

You should see a doctor if you observe:

Inflammation occurs
Redness or bleeding
Rapid enlargement in the size of the lesion
Hardening of the lesion

How to Diagnose Actinic Keratosis?

A doctor can help diagnose Actinic Keratosis (AK) by examining the affected area. However, if the lesion looks suspicious, the doctor may recommend actinic keratosis treatment or a skin biopsy. A biopsy is one of the best ways to check if the lesion has turned cancerous, ensuring appropriate management and care for your skin.

Why Treat Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic Keratosis is not a cancerous skin condition, but it can sometimes progress into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.

Treating Actinic Keratosis early can prevent this transformation and reduce the risk of developing more serious skin issues. Additionally, treatment helps to improve the skin’s appearance by removing rough, scaly patches, making the skin smoother and healthier.

Regular monitoring and treatment are essential to manage Actinic Keratosis effectively and prevent potential complications.

How to Treat Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic Keratosis can be treated in a variety of ways. Some of the best treatment options include:

Cryotherapy

In this type of treatment, the lesion is sprayed with a cryosurgery solution and the freeze cells are killed. The lesion scab over within a few days after completion of the procedure and falls off.

Excision

This treatment procedure involves cutting the hardened skin. The doctor may also choose to remove all the extra tissue present around the lesion to prevent skin cancer. Depending on the area treated, you may or may not require the stitches.

Phototherapy

During this treatment procedure, a solution is applied to the affected skin and the area is exposed to intense laser light. Common solutions used in this procedure include methyl aminolevulinate cream and aminolevulinic acid.

Chemical Peels

Certain topical treatments can also help kill the affected skin cells. Treatments such as chemical peel might help get rid of lesions but it also causes a lot of side effect. So make sure you talk to your doctor before undergoing the procedure.

Start Actinic Keratosis Treatment Today

At Skin First Dermatology, our team provides personalized Actinic Keratosis treatments in Bayside, NY, tailored to your specific skin needs. Using the latest techniques, we effectively treat precancerous lesions to prevent them from developing into more serious conditions, helping you maintain healthy, clear skin.

Whether you’re in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or anywhere in the New York City area, our experts are here to support you. Ready to take control of your skin health? Schedule a consultation with us today—you deserve the best care. Book your appointment now!