At Kent Skin & Laser Clinic, our consultant dermatologist-led team begins with a full clinical assessment, then recommends the approach that suits your lesions. Based in Canterbury, we welcome patients from across Kent, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Faversham, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover, Deal and the surrounding areas.
What is Actinic Keratosis?
Actinic keratosis, sometimes called solar keratosis, appears as one or more rough, scaly or crusty lesions on skin that has had a lot of sun over the years. It most often affects the face, scalp, ears, forearms and hands. The lesions can be skin coloured, pink or brownish, and some feel tender or itchy.
Because other skin changes can look similar, an accurate diagnosis matters. Our Consultant Dermatologists examine each lesion before recommending anything, and any lesion that is growing, bleeding or not healing should be seen by a clinician promptly. You can read more about the condition itself on our actinic keratosis page.
Treatment may suit you if:
- You have one or more confirmed actinic keratoses
- Your lesions are tender, growing or bothering you
- You would prefer active treatment rather than ongoing monitoring
- Your lesions have been assessed and confirmed suitable for treatment
Treatment Options for Actinic Keratosis
Treatment depends on the number, size and appearance of your lesions, and it is always guided by a full clinical assessment first. Your options may include one or more of the following.
Skin Cancer Screening
We carefully examine 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.
Medical Skin Care
Prescription treatment applied to the skin can help clear lesions and reduce the chance of new ones forming. It is particularly useful if you have several areas of concern.
Dermatological Surgery/Cryotherapy
For more persistent or thickened lesions, in-clinic removal techniques, including cryotherapy, may be used. Treatment is carried out by our specialist team here in the clinic, under local anaesthetic where needed, and any tissue removed can be sent for histology, with the cost included in your price.
Assessment and Monitoring
Not every actinic keratosis needs treating straight away. Small, stable lesions can reasonably be monitored, and our team will explain what to look out for. That choice is always discussed with you.
Each approach has advantages and drawbacks, including differences in treatment time, discomfort, healing and cosmetic outcome. No treatment can stop new lesions from developing in sun-damaged skin, so follow-up and sun protection remain important. Your clinician will talk through which options suit you.
Why Choose Kent Skin & Laser Clinic?
Dermatology is the heart of our clinic, with expertise rooted in Canterbury since 2002. Patients choose us because we offer:
- Consultant-led dermatology, with moles, lesions and skin cancer concerns assessed by our Consultant Dermatologists
- Minor surgery here in the clinic under local anaesthetic, so you can go home the same day
- Histology included as standard when tissue is removed, with the cost included in your price
- CQC-regulated care, with all major private medical insurers accepted
We welcome patients from Canterbury and across Kent.
What Happens at the Appointment?
Your appointment begins with an assessment, during which our team will:
- Confirm the diagnosis
- Check the number, size and location of the lesions
- Discuss your skin history and sun exposure
- Agree the most suitable treatment with you
If in-clinic removal is suitable, the technique is explained before we begin. With cryotherapy, liquid nitrogen is applied to each area in turn, and most patients describe a brief stinging or cold sensation that settles quickly afterwards. Downtime is minimal, and treatment sessions take around 30 minutes.
You are given simple aftercare advice before you leave, and a follow-up is arranged if a lesion needs a repeat treatment. In-clinic removal can occasionally leave a small area of lighter skin or a mark at the treated site, which is usually minor and fades over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on the approach and on your lesions. Many areas treated with cryotherapy clear within one or two sessions, while thicker or more stubborn ones may need a further treatment, and prescription skin care is used over a longer course. Our team will arrange a follow-up if that applies to you.
Is treatment painful?
With cryotherapy, most patients describe a brief stinging or cold sensation that settles quickly afterwards. If a lesion needs surgical removal, local anaesthetic is used so that you stay comfortable.
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.
Do all actinic keratoses need treating?
Not necessarily. Some can be monitored, particularly if they are small and stable. Treatment is often recommended because of the small chance of progression, and many patients prefer to have them cleared rather than watched.
Can actinic keratoses come back after treatment?
A treated area should not return, but new lesions can develop on sun-exposed skin over time. This is why ongoing sun protection matters after treatment.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you can book directly as a self-funded patient. Some private medical insurers may ask for a referral, so it is worth checking your policy first. Consultant Dermatologist appointments are booked by phone or email so we can check your funding.
Book this treatment
Price
Specialty Doctor £250, Consultant Dermatologist £300
Appointment
30 minutes
Downtime
Minimal
Dermatologist appointments are booked by phone or email, so we can check whether you are insured or self-funding.
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