Actinic Keratosis

Actinic Keratosis (also known as solar keratosis) is a common pre-cancerous skin condition caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. Today, 60% of all Canadians over the age of 40 have at least one actinic keratosis lesion.

Risk Factors

• Chronic exposure to ultraviolet light (including the sun and tanning beds.)
• Having pale skin, red or blond hair, and blue or light-colored eyes
• If you sunburn easily
• Being over the age of 45
• Having a personal history of an actinic keratosis or skin cancer
• Having a weak immune system as a result of chemotherapy, chronic leukemia, AIDS or organ transplant medications

Because Actinic Keratosis is considered to be a pre-cancerous skin condition, it is extremely important to seek diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.

Actinic keratosis lesions are found primarily on areas of your body which are constantly exposed to the sun including your face, lips, ears, neck and the back of your hands. 

Signs & Symptoms

• A rough or scaly patch of skin which is usually less than 1 inch in diameter.
• Slightly raised bump on your skin
• Itching or burning of the skin
• Discoloration of your skin (pink, red, brown patches)

If treated early, almost all actinic keratoses can be prevented from developing into skin cancer. However, ignored, these spots can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of cancer. If you are experiencing any new skin changes, one of our specialists can diagnose and develop a treatment plan to help restore your health and happiness.

Although actinic keratosis is considered a precancerous skin condition, it is extremely treatable and at Okanagan Skin Care Centre, we provide two types of technologically advanced treatments that can have drastic positive effects on your skin.

Browse Actinic Keratosis Before/After Photos

Blu-U & Levulan

This treatment uses a two step process in eliminating sun damaged spots combining Levulan (aminole­vulinic acid) with Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy.

• Step 1 - Levulan is gently dabbed onto the affected surface 1-4 hour hours before activation with the Blu-U.
• Step 2 - This is followed by a 15 minute session with the non-invasive, effective Blu-U light therapy which penetrates deep into the skin to destroy the cause of the skin problem.
• Within 8 weeks of the treatment, all of the sun damaged spots will be eliminated.

Fraxel 1927

Fraxel 1927 is fast be­com­ing the go-to treat­ment for Actinic Keratosis due to its safe, pre­dictable re­sults. It is a non-invasive, non-ablative laser therapy which targets sun-damaged skin and promotes very rapid healing. Fraxel 1927 laser treatment penetrates deep into your skin to stimulate the growth of new, healthy skin cells from the inside out.

At Okanagan Skin Care Centre, we are highly invested in our patients’ health and overall well-being. We promise a quick and correct initial diagnosis, minimal wait times and advanced treatment options which provide safe and satisfying results.

To book a consultation with one of our skin care specialists today or to learn more about our Actinic Keratosis treatment options, call us at 250.868.9290 or book your consultation today!