Actinic Keratosis
Precancer on the skin
What is it?
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a very common precancer on the skin, including the scalp. AKs form on skin that has been chronically damaged by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and/or indoor tanning. AKs can develop into skin cancer, specifically Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Because AKs are due to UV damage, it is important to protect yourself with sun safe clothing, sunscreen, and hats to prevent them from forming.
What does it look like on the scalp?
Actinic keratosis typically appears as a small rough, dry, scaly patch of skin. The color of AKs vary depending on a person’s skin tone, but can be pink, red, tan, white, flesh-colored, or a combination. The best way to tell if something could be an AK is if it has a rough, gritty texture.
Most importantly, AKs can vary in appearance and texture from person to person, so it is important to get a professional opinion from a dermatologist if you are concerned.
*Image Source Attribution: All images were sourced from DermNet. Link: https://dermnetnz.org/
How dangerous is it?
About 5-10% of actinic keratoses turn into a skin cancer, called Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), which can become destructive and life-threatening if left untreated.
