At our CQC-registered dermatology clinic, actinic keratosis is assessed by our consultant dermatologist-led team, who can usually diagnose it on examination alone. Patients travel to us from across Kent, including Canterbury, Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Maidstone, Ashford, Folkestone and Dover. Our aim is to give you a clear diagnosis, explain your options calmly and put the right plan in place, whether that is monitoring, treatment or both.
About the Condition
Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches of skin that develop after years of sun exposure. They most often appear on the face, scalp, ears, forearms and hands, and are common in older adults and people with fair skin.
Signs people notice include:
- Rough, dry or scaly patches on sun-exposed skin
- Patches that feel more noticeable than they look
- Pink, red or brown discolouration
- Patches that come and go, or persist for months
- Occasional tenderness, itching or a stinging sensation
The main cause is cumulative ultraviolet exposure from the sun over many years. Most actinic keratoses remain harmless, but a small proportion can develop into a type of skin cancer over time, which is why an accurate diagnosis and sensible monitoring or treatment are worthwhile.
Actinic keratosis can look similar to other skin changes, such as seborrhoeic keratosis, age spots or a skin cancer, so it should be assessed by a clinician rather than assumed. Where a patch looks different or needs a closer look, our skin cancer service is available in the same clinic.
How We Treat It
Treatment depends on the number, size and appearance of your patches, and it is always guided by a full clinical assessment first. Some actinic keratoses simply need monitoring and good sun protection, while others benefit from active treatment.
The assessment includes a thorough examination of the affected area and your wider skin. Actinic keratoses often appear where sun damage is greatest, so they are a useful prompt to check the rest of your skin too. Prescription treatment applied to the skin can help clear patches and reduce the chance of new ones forming, which is particularly useful if you have several areas of concern. For more persistent or thickened patches, in-clinic removal, including cryotherapy, is carried out by our specialist team under local anaesthetic where needed, and any tissue removed can be sent for histology, with the cost included in your price. If you are worried about moles as well, we also offer a mole check.
Each approach has advantages and drawbacks, including differences in treatment time, discomfort, healing and cosmetic outcome. No treatment can stop new patches from developing in sun-damaged skin, so follow-up and sun protection remain important. Your clinician will talk through which options suit you. Individual results vary.
When to See a Specialist
It is worth having any persistent rough or scaly patch assessed, particularly if it is tender, growing, bleeding, or looks different from a typical patch of dry skin. A proper diagnosis helps decide whether monitoring or active treatment is right for you.
Book a consultation if you have several patches, if patches keep returning, or if you have had a lot of sun exposure over the years. Please seek prompt medical advice if a patch is bleeding, ulcerating or changing quickly, or call us for a swift appointment. We accept all major private medical insurers, and our team can advise you when you call.
Further reading: NHS – Actinic keratoses · DermNet – Actinic keratosis · British Association of Dermatologists
Frequently Asked Questions
Is actinic keratosis the same as skin cancer?
No, though it is related. Actinic keratosis is a change caused by sun damage, and only a small proportion progress to a type of skin cancer, which is why monitoring or treatment is recommended.
How is actinic keratosis treated?
Treatment always starts with a full clinical assessment, including a check of your wider skin. Options include prescription treatment applied to the skin, which is useful where there are several patches, and in-clinic removal, including cryotherapy, for more persistent or thickened patches. Your clinician will advise on the most suitable option for your skin.
Can actinic keratosis be prevented?
Good sun protection, including regular use of sunscreen and covering up in strong sunlight, is an important way to reduce your chance of developing further patches over time.
Will treatment leave a mark?
In-clinic removal, including cryotherapy, can occasionally leave a small area of lighter skin or a mark at the treated site. This is usually minor and fades over time, and your clinician will discuss it with you before treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies depending on the number and size of the patches. Some respond to a single treatment, while others need a short course.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you can book directly with us. Consultant Dermatologist appointments are booked by phone or email so we can check whether you are insured or self-funding.
Get your concern assessed
First step
Dermatology Consultation, £300
Appointment
30 minutes
Availability
Usually within 1 to 2 weeks
Consultant Dermatologist appointments are booked by phone or email, so we can check whether you are insured or self-funding.
Treatments for actinic keratosis
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