Deciding to schedule a dermatology consultation in Grosse Pointe can be a significant decision, and there are many reasons for doing so. For instance, perhaps the patient found a mole or mark on their skin and they decide to get the spot examined to ensure that it is not cancerous. Other people choose to visit a dermatologist to clear up their acne.
These individuals want their skin to be free of the blackheads, cysts, and whiteheads. Of course, before it gets to the point of seeking dermatology treatments in Grosse Pointe, patients have usually spent a substantial amount of money on over-the-counter acne products that don’t work or produce less than ideal results. So, before a person picks up another bottle of facial cream, cleanser, or a pack of wipes, they should think about setting up an appointment with a skin doctor to get a proven treatment that will eradicate the blemishes safely and effectively.
What is Actinic Keratoses?
AKs, short for Actinic Keratoses, are common skin lesions. They form on various parts of the body after years of sun exposure. People with fair complexions are at a higher risk for developing these spots. Regardless of where they appear, whether on the neck, forehead, arms, or legs, these patches are typically considered the earliest stage of skin cancer. Thus, if a Grosse Pointe resident believes he or she has these lesions, it is of the utmost importance to get a dermatology consultation right away to determine any serious diagnoses early.
AK marks can range in size. Sometimes, they are tiny, while on other occasions the AKs are quarter-sized or larger. They have a rough texture that feels sandpaper-like to the touch. The area where the lesion develops will be a reddish-brown shade. Many times, AKs come and go. In other cases, they become permanent. There are several methods for dealing with Actinic Keratoses such as:
- Chemical Peels
- Cryosurgery
- Topical NSAID Therapy, Immunotherapy, and Chemotherapy
Perhaps, the best way to combat the threat is with a good defense strategy. Patients should heed this advice to prevent Actinic Keratoses in the first place. When heading outdoors for an extended period, people should apply a sunscreen with a minimum SPF30 to the skin. This will protect against harmful UVB and UVA rays.
Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can also prove to be helpful in preventing these spots. When appropriate, people shouldn’t hesitate to cover up in a long-sleeve shirt and pants too. Seek shade where possible. With this advice, it’s possible to avoid the formation of AKs on the skin altogether. If individuals are concerned about this skin issue, scheduling a consultation with a doctor as soon as possible, is recommended.