Actinic / Solar Keratoses (Pre-Cancers)

Actinic keratoses are rough, scaly patches of sun-damaged skin that most often appear on the face, scalp, ears and hands. They develop after years of ultraviolet exposure and are more common in fair-skinned individuals. Although not skin cancers themselves, they are considered pre-cancerous as a small proportion can progress to squamous cell carcinoma over time. Treatment is usually recommended to reduce this risk and may include cryotherapy, topical therapies or other field-based treatments depending on the extent of sun damage.

• Note any lesions that are new, changing or persistently tender.

• Bring details of previous treatments such as cryotherapy or topical therapies.

Routine skincare can continue as normal before review.