Precancerous spots (actinic keratoses)

Actinic keratoses, also called AKs or solar keratoses, are rough, scaly spots caused by years of sun exposure. They are common on the face, ears, scalp, lips, forearms and backs of the hands.

AKs are considered precancerous. Most never become cancer, but some can turn into squamous cell carcinoma, so we treat them to lower that risk.

Signs and symptoms

• Rough, dry or scaly patches, often easier to feel than to see
• Pink, red, tan or skin-colored spots
• Spots that sting, itch or feel tender
• A dry, scaly lower lip, known as actinic cheilitis

How we treat them

• Cryotherapy: freezing individual spots with liquid nitrogen
• Prescription creams: medicines like fluorouracil or imiquimod that treat a whole area, including spots too small to see yet. See topical treatment for precancers
• Selected in-office procedures may be considered when appropriate; your provider will explain the options.
• Regular skin checks: to find and treat new spots early

Your provider will choose treatment based on how many spots you have and where they are.

Where it is offered

Actinic keratosis Q&A

Related care

• Topical treatment for precancers
• Sun damage and sun sensitivity
• Skin checks and skin cancer screening
• Basal and squamous cell carcinoma