Keratosis Treatment

Actinic Keratosis is characterized by the presence of thickened, rough bumps which greatly vary in color - but mostly reddish or brownish - on the skin of body parts constantly overexposed to the sun. The causes are identified to be unprotected overexposure to the sun exacerbated by increasing age. Although this type is seldomly painful or itchy, this can progress into malignant conditions. Since this type eventually leads to skin cancer, it is a must to receive appropriate treatment. The use of medicines, the use of cryogens, the use of laser, photodynamic therapy, electrocautery or surgery are the treatment choices for actinic keratosis.

Seborrheic Keratosis is characterized by the presence of lesions somehow similar to actinic keratosis which manifest anywhere on the body but on the anterior and posterior chest most of the time. But its sebaceous or oily property is what makes it very different from actinic keratosis. Another characteristic in contrast to actinic keratosis is its benign property. Therefore, you will only be concerned by its appearance and by the itching, bleeding or inflammation brought about by its contact with clothing. Family history and overexposure to the sun are the relevant factors in this type of keratosis' production. Since this is not a precursor to cancer, treatment is actually unnecessary. But if we are talking about physical appearance, there are several ways with which we can remove these unwanted lesions. Almost the same with actinic keratosis, treatments for seborrheic keratosis involve the use of agents as laser, electric current, cryogens, surgical or curettage tools.

Genetics is the single most important factor in the development of keratosis pilaris, usually called follicular keratosis. Its usual symptom is the presence of reddish rough bumps on the posterior chest and the outer arm. Its cause is the overgrowth of keratin resulting to hair follicle enclosure and the eventual formation of tiny, almost rock-like bumps. Like seborrheic keratosis, it only needs treatment for the symptoms. These include photodynamic therapy, laser therapy or prescribed topical solutions or medications such as therapeutic cleansers, lotions or moisturizers, glycolic treatments, salycilic compounds or benzoyl peroxide - the last being commonly known for its use in pimples.