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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Actinic keratosis

Actinic keratosis - close-up
Actinic keratosis - close-up
Actinic keratosis - ear
Actinic keratosis - ear
Actinic keratosis on the arm
Actinic keratosis on the arm
Actinic keratosis on the forearms
Actinic keratosis on the forearms
Actinic keratosis on the scalp
Actinic keratosis on the scalp
Alternative Names

Solar keratosis; Sun-induced skin changes - keratosis; Keratosis - actinic (solar)


Prevention

Reduce sun exposure and protect your skin from the sun. Wear protective clothing such as hats, long-sleeved shirts, long skirts, or pants. Ultraviolet light is most intense midday, so try to avoid sun exposure during these hours.

Use high-quality sunscreens, preferably with SPF (sun protection factor) ratings of at least 15. Pick a sunscreen that blocks both UBA and UVB light. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out into the sun, and reapply frequently. Sunscreen should be used year-round, including in the winter.



Review Date: 10/17/2006
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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