Skin Cancer & Precancer
Actinic Keratosis
Solar keratosis; "pre-cancer"
Very common on sun-exposed skin
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Yes, and treating it lowers cancer risk
What Is It?
An actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly patch caused by years of sun exposure. It is considered pre-cancerous, meaning a small number can, over time, turn into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Treating AKs early helps prevent that.
Signs & Symptoms
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Rough, dry, or scaly patch, often easier felt than seen
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Pink, red, tan, or skin-colored
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Usually on the face, scalp, ears, lips, hands, or forearms
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May itch, sting, or feel tender
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Can come and go, but true AKs tend to return
Why Does It Happen?
AKs are caused by long-term ultraviolet (UV) damage from the sun or tanning beds. Over many years, UV light injures skin cells and causes abnormal, rough patches. They are most common in people with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or lots of lifetime sun exposure.
Treatment Options
Treatment removes or destroys abnormal cells and lowers the chance of skin cancer. Your provider chooses based on how many lesions you have and where they are.
CRYOTHERAPY
Freezing individual spots with liquid nitrogen — best for a few lesions.
FIELD THERAPY
Prescription creams (e.g., 5-fluorouracil, imiquimod) treat many lesions over an area.
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY
A light-activated medicine that clears widespread sun damage.
SUN PROTECTION
Daily sunscreen and cover-up are essential to prevent new lesions.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every day
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Wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade at midday
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Do regular skin self-checks and note any new rough spots
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Expect treated skin to get red or crusty before healing
When to Call Your Provider
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A spot grows, bleeds, becomes tender, or forms a sore
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A patch thickens, becomes lumpy, or won't heal
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New rough patches appear on sun-exposed skin
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You have not had a full skin exam recently
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Actinic Keratosis: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/actinic-keratosis-overview
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Actinic Keratoses. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-conditions/actinic-keratoses/
DermNet. Actinic Keratosis. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/actinic-keratosis
MSD/Merck Manual. Actinic Keratosis. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/sunlight-and-skin-damage/actinic-keratosis
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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