Blog Detail

Oct 19, 2025

What You Need to Know About Actinic Keratosis (AK)

Actinic Keratosis (AK) is a common skin condition caused by years of sun exposure. It may look harmless, but it’s a warning sign of sun damage and can sometimes develop into skin cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma) if left untreated.

How to Spot It

• Rough, sandpaper-like patches
• Scaly, crusty, or dry spots
• Doesn’t heal or keeps returning
• Often found on the face, scalp, ears, forearms, and hands

Who’s at Risk

• Over age 40
• Spend a lot of time outdoors (work or leisure)
• Fair skin that burns easily
• Weakened immune system

Why Treatment Matters

Treating AK early can stop it from turning into skin cancer.

Treatment Options

• Freezing (cryotherapy)
• Prescription creams
• Light-based therapy (photodynamic)
• Small procedures, if needed

Protect Your Skin Every Day
✅ Sunscreen SPF 30+
✅ Protective clothing & hats
✅ Shade during peak sun hours
✅ Skip tanning beds

actinic-keratosis images of different types

When to Seek Treatment?

If you notice new, rough, or persistent patches that don’t go away, book a skin check.
📍 MD Laser Clinic – 70 Plains Rd W, Unit 7, Burlington📞 905-929-3134

---

• Share: