Actinic keratosis

Updated: 2023-10-21

Description

A rough, scaly patch on the skin caused by years of sun exposure.

Overview

Actinic keratosis is most common on the face, lips, ears, back of hands, forearms, scalp, and neck. It usually appears on older adults. Reducing sun exposure reduces the risk of getting it.

Symptoms

The skin patch enlarges slowly and usually causes no symptoms. A patch may take years to develop.

Treatments

Because this kind of skin patch can turn into cancer, it's usually removed as a precaution.