Actinic Keratosis

Do You Have Rough, Dry, Scaly Patches of Skin?

Actinic Keratosis (AKs) are rough-textured, dry, scaly patches on the skin that are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet light (UV) such as sunlight. AKs are considered to be the first step in the development of skin cancer. More than 10 million Americans have AKs.

Our treatment for Actinic Keratosis may help protect you from skin cancer and clear up unwanted sun spots.

Symptoms

AKs are often called sun spots. They occur most often on the face, scalp, ears, neck, hand and arms.

They can range in color from skin toned to reddish brown, and can be as small as a pinhead or larger than a quarter.

Who Gets AKs?

AK’s develop as the result of years of sun exposure. Because the effect of sun exposure is cumulative, it is your lifetime exposure that increases your risk. Even if you don’t suntan much, years of just doing simple tasks outside can add up to a significant amount of sun exposure. For example:

  • Going out to the mail box
  • Driving during the day
  • Walking the dog
  • Outdoor sports

Treatment for Actinic Keratosis

AK’s develop as the result of years of sun exposure. Because the effect of sun exposure is cumulative, it is your lifetime exposure that increases your risk. Even if you don’t suntan much, years of just doing simple tasks outside can add up to a significant amount of sun exposure. For example:

Vita offers a convenient treatment for your Actinic Keratosis. This treatment generally consists of a 2-part treatment course. Offering a low downtime, 100% compliance meaning no application of a prescription ointment everyday. Photodynamic Treatment often referred to as BLU-U light Treatment consists of a short, 1000 second session under the blue light. There is no prescription to fill and no daily medication to remember.

Down Time and Insurance Coverage

Down time consists of avoiding sun exposure for at least 40 hours. Most insurance cover this procedure. Please call contact us to see if you qualify for this procedure.

Learn More

For more information on our dermatology services, please call (530) 528-4456 or contact us. Or click here to Find a Doctor.