Actinic Keratosis Overview

AKs often appear as small dry, scaly or crusty patches of skin. They may be red, light or dark tan, white, pink, flesh-toned or a combination of colors and are sometimes raised. Because of their rough texture, actinic keratoses are often easier to feel than see. For photos, go to our warning signs page.

The lesions frequently arise on sun-exposed areas of the face, lips, ears, scalp, shoulders, neck and the back of the hands and forearms. Another form of AK known as actinic cheilitis appears on the lower lip.

Even though just 5-10 percent of AKs turn into skin cancer, the vast majority of squamous cell carcinomas start off as AKs. That’s why it’s best to play it safe and see your dermatologist if you think you may have an AK.

• AKs are evidence of sustained sun damage. Having them raises your lifetime risk for skin cancer. Since having one AK means that it’s likely you have already developed more, this may translate into an especially elevated risk for developing an SCC.
• An untreated SCC can become invasive and even life-threatening.

If detected early, actinic keratoses can be treated before they develop into skin cancer.

See your dermatologist, who can accurately diagnose the lesion and recommend an effective treatment. It’s best to diagnose and treat AKs early, before they become cancerous. This is especially true for AKs that arise on the head or neck, where skin cancers may be more aggressive.

Protect yourself to help prevent further sun damage. Seek shade and protect your skin against UV exposure every day, even when it’s cloudy, using broad-spectrum sunscreen and sun safe clothing, hats and eyewear. Avoid indoor tanning entirely and do not get sunburned.