Actinic Keratosis: Precancerous Sun Spots: How It Works, Explained Simply

Video Transcript

An actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch that forms on skin after years of sun exposure. They appear on the areas that catch the most sun over a lifetime: the face, scalp, ears, backs of the hands and forearms. They are often easier to feel than to see, with a dry, sandpaper-like texture, and they may be pink, red or brownish. Years of ultraviolet exposure damage the keratinocytes in the epidermis, and that damage can build up into these patches. An actinic keratosis is considered precancerous. Left untreated, a small number can, over time, develop into a squamous cell carcinoma. It is important to keep that in perspective. Most do not become cancer, but because it is hard to predict which might, they are often treated. Individual spots can be treated by freezing them. Where there are many, creams or light-based treatments can treat a whole area at once. A patch that grows, thickens, bleeds, or does not settle after treatment should be looked at again. Because they come from cumulative sun exposure, sun protection helps prevent new ones from forming. This video is for general education only. It is not medical advice. Ask your doctor what's right for you.