Actinic Keratosis

What is Actinic Keratosis

Spending hours in the sunshine can be a pleasant way to pass the day, but years of sun exposure can lead to rough, scaly patches on the skin called actinic keratosis (AK). AK is caused by UV radiation and can become cancerous if left untreated. AKs appear as elevated skin spots ranging in color from flesh colored to white, pink, dark tan or red. They can resemble warts and commonly occur on the face, ears, shoulders, neck, hands, shins and forearms, areas that receive high levels of UV exposure.

ARE AKS CANCEROUS?

AKs typically start out as a small rough, scaly skin patch that enlarges slowly without additional symptoms. In some cases they may itch or feel tender. They may take years to develop. Due to the possibility of the lesions becoming cancerous, it is not uncommon to remove AKs as a precautionary measure. AKs primarily occur in adults over the age of 40.

If you feel you may have actinic keratosis but are unsure, come see us for a thorough consultation and state-of-the-art laser treatments like Levulan Photodynamic Therapy or Fraxel laser resurfacing.

 

Before & After Photos

Frequently asked questions

Methods we use to treat

Fraxel laser is one of the best lasers in the World. This laser can be used to treat skin pigmentation, wrinkles, acne scars and sun damage. It will give your skin a whole new texture and brilliance to it. Fraxel laser is gentle on your skin, with a recovery rate of 4-6 days. We recommend 1-5 treatments depending on your skin condition. Fraxel is considered a ‘fractional treatment’, meaning that it creates hundreds of deep columns through the skin called microscopic treatment zones. This means only a percentage of the skin is affected during each laser pass, reducing healing time, promoting natural regeneration of collagen, and rejuvenating skin cells. Due to the fact that Fraxel laser works through non-ablative resurfacing, the epidermis, or top layer of skin, is not directly impacted. As a result, patients can expect faster healing after treatment.
Advances in cosmetic medicine have led to the development of a non-invasive procedure that treats many common skin care concerns. Photodynamic Therapy is a revolutionary procedure that safely and effectively treats acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, sun damage and actinic keratosis (precancerous skin lesions). The treatment process for this procedure involves two steps. The first step involves the application of a clear, photosensitizing agent known as Levulan also known as D-Aminolevulinic Acid. This topical solution is then activated with a specific light source. Red light, blue light or intense pulsed light (IPL), are the primary wavelengths of light that are used. This is a highly precise procedure that only targets the affected cells.

Products & Treatments we offer