Actinic Keratosis


What is an actinic keratosis?

An actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly, pink or red lesion that appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin.

Why treat an actinic keratosis?

AKs can be painful, itchy or irritating. In addition, there is a small risk that an AK can progress to squamous cell skin cancer .

How are actinic keratoses treated at DTLA Derm?

Our board-certified dermatologists first evaluate the AKs to determine whether treatment is necessary. If treatment is appropriate, DTLA Derm offers several treatment options, including:

  • freezing the lesions with liquid nitrogen;
  • prescription medications;
  • chemical peels
  • photodynamic therapy .

The choice of treatment depends on location, number of lesions, and acceptable downtime. We closely monitor your progress through follow up visits and photography.

While we offer several options to treat AKs, you can prevent these lesions from forming by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF of at least 30) and wearing protective clothing daily. We offer a full complement of sunscreens for every skin type, including those with sensitive, oily, dry, or dark skin and men with beards.

What we offer