Do You Have Pre-Cancer?

Actinic keratoses are scaly or crusty growths caused by damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Also known as solar keratoses, these lesions typically appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, bald scalp, lips, and the back of the hands. They are often elevated off the skin, rough in texture, and resemble warts.  Most become red, but some will be tan, pink, red, and/or flesh-toned. If left untreated, actinic keratoses can advance to squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common form of skin cancer. Luckily, these lesions can be easily treated with topical creams, freezing sprays and certain light therapies. Speak to your dermatologist, and make sure your pre-cancers are treated before it's too late.