Actinic Keratosis Treatment: One Spot or a Wider Area?
SkinArticleCompare treatment of individual growths with prescribed treatment for an area containing several.
In this article
The dermatologist may discuss treating a visible growth or treating a larger area of skin. Ask which goal your prescription addresses.
Compare the treatment area
| Approach | What it can address | Question for the visit |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment directed at individual growths | Procedures such as cryosurgery can treat one or a few AKs. | Which spots are being treated, and what healing should I expect? |
| Prescribed treatment over a wider area | A topical medicine can treat several AKs, including ones that can be felt but are not yet visible. | Where exactly should I apply it, and for how long? |
These are examples of approaches the dermatologist may consider, not a complete menu or a way to choose treatment yourself.1
Get the skin-care instructions before starting
Cryosurgery can cause crusting or blistering. Topical treatment can also produce a skin reaction. Ask which reactions are expected, what care the area needs and when to contact the clinic. Follow the prescribed application schedule and seek advice about concerning reactions.1
A medical chemical peel used for AKs is different from a salon or home peel. Do not substitute a cosmetic peel for a prescribed procedure.1
Treatment does not finish the follow-up plan
Keep dermatology appointments and ask how often to check your skin at home. Sun protection includes shade, protective clothing and broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Treating existing growths does not remove the need for ongoing protection.2
Skin, Head to Toe lists a Skin Sort worksheet, Skin Log and visit script in its toolkit. They can help you record skin observations and questions for appointments. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- American Academy of DermatologyActinic keratosis: Diagnosis and treatment (opens in a new tab)abcd
- American Academy of DermatologyActinic keratosis: Self-care (opens in a new tab)ab
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we’ll check it.
