Actinic keratosis occurs most commonly in fair skin, especially in the elderly and in young individuals with light complexions. The growths occur in sun-exposed skin areas. The growths begin as flat scaly areas that later develop a hard wart-like surface.

They are classified as precancerous growths. If left untreated, approximately 10% of actinic keratoses develop into squamous cell carcinoma.

• Rough and dry textured skin lesion
• A macule, patch, or growth on the skin
  • Limited to a discrete area (localized)
  • Located on the face, scalp, back of the hands, chest or other sun-exposed areas
  • Color gray, pink, red (erythematous), or the same color as the skin
  • Surface is initially flat and scaly, then becomes slightly raised
  • Surface texture becomes hard and wart-like or gritty, rough, and "sandpapery"; may develop a horn-like texture from overgrowth of skin keratin layer (hyperkeratosis)

• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Irritation and discomfort of the skin growth

Minimize sun exposure and protect 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 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 half an hour before exposure, and reapply frequently.

Use sunscreen for winter exposure also.