All Services
A rough, scaly patch, bump or reddish spot on areas of the skin often exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, hands and forearms.
What is it?
Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is one of the more prevalent skin conditions we address at Dermatologists of Southwest Ohio. This precancerous skin growth often manifests as red, pink or brown spots on the surface of the skin. These spots typically appear on parts of the body that are most often exposed to the sun, such as the face, lips, ears, neck, hands, arms and shoulders.
Actinic keratosis is a widespread concern and primarily affects adults due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light. If left unchecked, actinic keratoses could potentially evolve into a form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma.
To reduce your risk of developing this condition, we recommend limiting your sun exposure and safeguarding your skin from UV rays. We advise patients to use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher year-round and restrict your time under the sun's potentially harmful rays.
How is it treated?
Our experienced, physician-led team will meticulously examine any worrisome spot on your skin, ensuring that you get an accurate diagnosis followed by timely and secure treatment. We can eliminate actinic keratoses utilizing chemical peels, a cooling procedure, medicated topical creams, gels or cryotherapy.
If you observe a new or changing spot on your skin, make an appointment at one of our offices in Batavia, Beavercreek, Bridgetown, Cincinnati, Dayton, Dent, Greenville, Hillsboro, Kettering, Mason, Montgomery, Oxford, Troy, West Chester and Wilmington, Ohio.