Effective Solar Keratosis Treatment in Melbourne/QC Skin Cancer & Laser Clinic

Sunspots (a.k.a. Solar or actinic keratosis) is a skin condition characterised by rough scaly patches of skin. They occur from too much sun exposure, especially for people with fair skin, and can appear anywhere on the body. Typically, you will feel sunspots before they appear.

Sunspots are often considered a warning sign of potential skin damage and an increased risk of skin cancer. It is important to protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

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Solar Keratosis Images

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When should I have a check for solar/actinic keratosis?

If you notice any changes in your skin, such as new or changing sunspots, it is recommended to see a Skin Cancer Specialist for evaluation and possible treatment.

Regular check-ups with a Skin Cancer Specialist can help monitor any suspicious spots and ensure early intervention if necessary. Remember, prevention and early detection are key in maintaining healthy skin and overall well-being.

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Are there any health complications if solar keratosis is left untreated?

If left untreated, solar keratosis can potentially progress into a more serious form of skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that can be aggressive and may require more extensive treatment. It is important to address any changes in your skin promptly to prevent any complications.

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How is solar Keratosis/actinic keratosis treated?

A wide range of options are available for actinic keratosis/solar keratosis treatment.

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Cryotherapy

This treatment uses liquid nitrogen to freeze the area. This causes blisters or peeling. These effects help the skin heal by removing damaged cells. This treatment is at its most effective for areas where there are limited sunspots.

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S	sore	Look for spots that are scaly, itchy, bleeding, tender, or that do not heal within six weeks.
C	changing	Pay attention to any changes in appearance (size, shape, or color).
A	abnormal	Be cautious of spots that look different, feel different, or stand out when compared to other moles.
N	new	Most melanomas and other types of skin cancer develop as new spots.

Topical treatments

These treatments consist of different cream or gel that are applied directly to the skin. Unlike cryotherapy, these solutions can treat areas of skin where the sunspots are not yet visible.However, they require usage for 3-6 weeks to yield effective outcomes.

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Photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy is the most innovative and efficient therapy for actinic keratosis. A single session could yield significant outcomes.

This treatment uses a light-sensitive substance on the skin, activated by a special light. This process helps to destroy the damaged cells in the affected area. Doctors often use photodynamic therapy for multiple or widespread actinic keratosis lesions on the face or body.

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