Address Pre-Cancerous Skin Lesions for Healthier Skin in New Jersey
Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a common precancerous skin condition caused by cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure. These rough, scaly patches or bumps often appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and the backs of the hands. While actinic keratosis itself is not immediately dangerous, it can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Actinic keratosis develops over time due to UV-induced damage to the skin’s cells. Key facts about the condition include:
Often appears as rough, scaly, or slightly raised patches
More common in fair-skinned individuals and those with prolonged sun exposure
Frequently occurs on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, scalp, lips, and hands
May be pink, red, or flesh-toned, sometimes with a sandpaper-like texture
The body’s ability to repair UV damage decreases with age, making regular skin evaluations crucial. Many patients are unaware they have actinic keratosis until a dermatologist identifies it during a routine skin check. Early identification allows for timely treatment and reduces the risk of progression to squamous cell carcinoma.
At Skin & Laser Center of NJ, we offer a variety of effective, minimally invasive treatment methods to remove actinic keratoses, including:
Topical therapies: Prescription creams applied directly to affected areas to target abnormal cells
Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen to destroy precancerous cells
Laser therapy: Targeted laser treatments to remove lesions with precision and minimal impact on surrounding skin
In-office procedures: Dermatologist-performed excision or curettage for thicker or more stubborn lesions
At-home care: Guidance for maintaining skin health, preventing new lesions, and protecting against further UV damage
Our dermatologists develop individualized treatment plans based on the number, size, and location of lesions, ensuring effective removal while preserving healthy skin.
Preventing actinic keratosis and reducing the risk of future lesions involves consistent sun protection and skin monitoring:
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days
Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses during sun exposure
Avoid tanning beds and excessive direct sunlight
Perform regular self-exams to identify new or changing spots
Schedule routine skin evaluations with a board-certified dermatologist
By combining prevention, early detection, and treatment, patients can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and maintain healthier, smoother skin over time.
Learn More About Actinic Keratosis
There are numerous treatment options for removing an actinic keratosis, each of which has its own strengths. Some of these treatments can be performed at Skin & Laser Center of NJ. Others can be done within the comfort of your own home. Our providers will first evaluate your skin and medical history to determine which treatment option would best suit your needs.
The in-office actinic keratosis treatment options include:
In addition to these treatments available at the Skin & Laser Center of NJ office, your provider may prescribe a topical medicine that you can use at home to treat lesions. These creams destroy the precancerous sun damaged cells over the course of a few weeks. The damaged areas crust up and peel off, revealing softer, healthier skin.
Convenient walk in hours available below. No appointment needed! Accepting private insurance and medicare. No medicaid plans.
Learn more about medical treatments at New Jersey’s Skin & Laser Center of NJ. Call 201-500-7525 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
