Reinehr CPH, et al. WebRed, tan, pink, skin-colored, brown or silvery. SIZE Dimensions vary from a tiny spot to as much as an inch in diameter. Actinic keratosis is caused by cumulative skin damage from repeated exposure to ultraviolet light, including that found in sunshine. Text: "Understanding Actinic Keratosis - the Basics", WebMD Medical Reference. In pictures of actinic keratosis, you'll see they are typically pink, scaly, and flat. Slideshow: Sun Damage Pictures Slideshow: Sunburn, Melanoma, Carcinoma, and More, Article: Understanding Actinic Keratosis - the Basics Do it when you have time to examine your skin from head to toe. In pictures of actinic keratosis, you'll see they are typically pink, scaly, and flat. What color is an actinic keratosis? What color is an actinic keratosis? Surgical procedures for actinic keratosis include: People with an actinic keratosis are at risk of developing cancer if they do not receive appropriate treatment for the condition. WebActinic keratosis (AK), sometimes called solar keratosis or senile keratosis, is a pre-cancerous area of thick, scaly, or crusty skin. A board-certified dermatologist should examine any horn-like growth on your skin ASAP. It also treats thin non-melanoma skin cancer. People with fair skin, blond or red hair, and blue or green eyes are most at risk of developing these rough, scaly "bumps." WebActinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma can look similar; in fact, an actinic keratosis can turn into a squamous cell carcinoma. Most skin cancer diagnoses are either basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). But skin cancers can look different from these examples. Actinic keratosis is a precancer, meaning that it can serve as a warning sign for future skin cancer. These cancers form in squamous cells, which are the flat cells that constantly shed in the outer part of your epidermis. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Precancerous Skin Lesions and Skin Cancer Picture Slideshow, Sun Damage Pictures Slideshow: Sunburn, Melanoma, Carcinoma, and More, Understanding Actinic Keratosis - the Basics, Understanding Actinic Keratosis - Symptoms, Precancerous Skin Lesions and Skin Cancer. 1,2. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Espaol. In many cases, a person will notice the small patch of skin that develops with this condition. Prev Complete the form and you may end up on our website. Seborrheic keratosis and actinic keratosis both cause skin growths, but actinic keratosis may become cancerous. Here's how to recognize and treat actinic keratosis, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin lesion, and more than 40 million Americans a year develop one, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association . What causes actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma? Avoid unprotected UV exposure. Squamous cell carcinoma symptoms: Similar to basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinomas tend to manifest as a pink or red bump or patch that wont go away, Dr. George explains. How do doctors diagnose actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma? (2020). This sample can be examined under a microscope to see if cancer is present. LOCATION For more than a decade she's worked with major brands, including Men's Health, SELF, and Women's Health. Reviewed by: Thats why its so important to be vigilant, as the disease is very treatable if you catch it early. WebActinic keratosis may be solitary but there are often multiple keratoses. In some cases, it may progress into SCC, a type of skin cancer. Cryotherapy is used when there are only a few lesions to treat, and the lesions have clear borders. However, in rare cases, its possible for BCC to spread deeper into surrounding tissues or to more distant parts of your body. Skin biopsy, Scalp carcinoma, pigmented basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of sun induced skin cancer. WebActinic keratoses (AKs) or solar keratoses are superficial tumors consisting of proliferations of abnormal skin cells that develop in response to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, skin cancer impacts people of all skin tones (including darker skin) and backgrounds. She spends most of her days diving into the latest wellness trends, writing and editing stories about health conditions, testing skincare products, and trying to understand the next greatest internet obsession. For photos, go to our warning signs page. Espaol. Also known as a solar keratosis, an actinic keratosis grows slowly and usually first appears in people over 40. For photos and information on actinic keratosis warning signs and symptoms, visit our Actinic Keratosis Warning Signs page. Mosby Elsevier, Spain, 2008:1645-58. An actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth on the skin. The size of actinic keratoses varies from tiny to an inch or more in diameter. The kinetics of skin cancer: Progression of actinic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma. Millions of people in the U.S. have at least one actinic keratosis, and they are more common in older people. This article details the causes, symptoms, and treatment of actinic keratosis. They may order a skin biopsy and send a sample for laboratory testing if necessary. WebActinic Keratosis Pictures. Consider this a warning that youre spending or have spent too much time in the sun. It's also common to have harmless brown spots or "liver spots." This is called Bowens disease, a very early squamous cell skin cancer that is only in the epidermis. Consider this a warning that youre spending or have spent too much time in the sun. Actinic keratosis is caused by cumulative skin damage from repeated exposure to ultraviolet light, including that found in sunshine. Scaly, white patches on one (or both) lips. Duncan KO, Geisse JK, et al. Actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth that is caused by damage to the skin. WebActinic keratoses (AKs) or solar keratoses are superficial tumors consisting of proliferations of abnormal skin cells that develop in response to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. A flat or thickened papule, or plaque White or yellow; scaly, warty, or horny surface Skin coloured, red, or pigmented Tender or asymptomatic Cryotherapy may be a good option for benign lesions, such as actinic keratosis. Learn to distinguish healthy growths from cancerous ones. In most cases, they present in people aged 50 years or older. WebActinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma can look similar; in fact, an actinic keratosis can turn into a squamous cell carcinoma. When an AK appears in this form, it often indicates that the person has a higher risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. According to the American Cancer Society, about 5.4 million BCCs and SCCs are diagnosed in the United States each year. You can find out more about cookies on our Privacy Policy page. Without treatment, AK can lead to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. The right self-care can help to prevent new AKs and skin cancer. They are believed The arrows on this womans face point to actinic keratoses. This can be treated with cryosurgery or certain ointments. If you notice one actinic keratosis, it is likely that you have others. WebWhat do actinic keratoses look like? Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. You may see a scaly pimple-like bump or patch of skin that is: Red or pink Skin-colored Gray Doctors may recommend several different treatment options for actinic keratosis. (2022). WebSkin Cancer Pictures by Type. As the above pictures show, AKs come in many colors. WebPicture of Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis) Actinic keratoses are rough , scaly spots that form on sun-damaged skin. There are different staging guidelines for basal and squamous cell. Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, use a broad-spectrum (UVA)/UVB) sunscreen and wear sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Image: 2007 Interactive Medical Media LLC. Youll find out what else may increase your risk of developing AKs at, Actinic keratosis: Causes. Marques E, et al. Signs and symptoms of basal and squamous cell skin cancers. McDaniel B, et al. In these situations, targeted therapy or immunotherapy may be used. WebActinic keratoses (plural of actinic keratosis) describes lesions on the outer skin layer caused by too much exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. Only about 10 percent of actinic keratoses will eventually become cancerous, but the majority of SCCs do begin as AKs. Leonard H. Goldberg, MD Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? Actinic keratoses tend to appear as smaller patches of rough-feeling skin, for example, while seborrheic keratoses may resemble a wart or mole. If you notice one actinic keratosis, it is likely that you have others. Seborrheic keratoses are a common, harmless, pigmented, growths on the skin. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Actinic keratosis: Who gets and causes. A doctor or skin care specialist can offer guidance on the best approach. One or more rough, scaly bumps that may look like pimples or spots of irritated skin. An actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth on the skin. Some (but not all) develop into squamous cell skin cancers, so its important to spot actinic keratosis before it advances. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Images Image 1: Getty Prevalence and awareness of actinic keratosis: barriers and opportunities. J Am Acad Dermatol. This article was medically reviewed by Mona Gohara, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and member of the Prevention Medical Review Board, in August 2022. Images 3,4,5,6,7,8,10: Used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology: Image 3: J Am Acad Dermatol. It is often treated because it might turn into squamous cell skin cancer. Its important to be able to recognize the symptoms of actinic keratosis and BCC. BCC also develops due to UV exposure. WebWhat is actinic keratosis? As the above pictures show, AKs come in many colors. Is actinic keratosis skin cancer? WebActinic keratosis (AK) is a skin disorder that causes rough, scaly patches of skin. Natalie tried many acne products without success. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Doctors may recommend topical creams and ointments for widespread cases of actinic keratosis. This damage usually comes from the sun or tanning beds. Heres what to look for: Although rareonly 2,000 cases are diagnosed each yearmerkel cell carcinoma is a dangerous forms of skin cancer, as it can grow rapidly and spread to other parts of the body. Another form of AK known as actinic cheilitis appears on the lower lip. Actinic cheilitis is a variant of AK that arises on the lower lip. It tends to lie flat against the skin of the head and neck, but appears as Home Skin Cancer Information Actinic Keratosis Actinic Keratosis Warning Signs and Images. But because this risk is low, treatments are generally aimed at avoiding scars or other disfiguring marks as much as possible. Unfortunately, theres no way to tell which AKs will become dangerous, so monitoring and treating any Regular skin checks with the doctor may be life-saving.But, of course, its important for you to be doing skin checks in between annual visits with your doctor.What exactly should you be looking for? To stay sane from working too hard, she turns to yoga, strength training, meditation. WebPrevent skin cancer. It is often treated because it might turn into squamous cell skin cancer. See your dermatologist, who can accurately diagnose the lesion and recommend an effective treatment. Actinic keratosis lesions are typically less than a quarter of an inch across. An actinic keratosis can develop after ultraviolet light from the sun or from indoor tanning damages cells in the skin called keratinocytes, according to the AAD. > Go to the image library. Cryotherapy for skin cancer is the use of liquid nitrogen to destroy a lesion. But because this risk is low, treatments are generally aimed at avoiding scars or other disfiguring marks as much as possible. Whats the Difference Between Seborrheic Keratosis and Actinic Keratosis? WebActinic Keratosis Pictures Home About Skin Cancer Prevention Treatment & Care Skin Cancer Pictures & Articles Actinic Keratosis Pictures As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. AK is a type of precancer, which means that if you dont treat the condition, it could turn into cancer. Cardiovascular health: Insomnia linked to greater risk of heart attack. 2013;69(1):e5-e6. A person can ensure the timely diagnosis and treatment of actinic keratosis by regularly checking their skin for symptoms and contacting a healthcare professional if they discover any changes. The appearance varies. Skin affected by actinic keratosis is often rough or scaly. WebActinic Keratosis Pictures Home About Skin Cancer Prevention Treatment & Care Skin Cancer Pictures & Articles Actinic Keratosis Pictures As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. Related to actinic keratosis, actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition that usually appears on the lower lips. About half the color on this mans lower lip has disappeared, turning his lip the same color as the skin on his face. > Go to the image library. Actinic keratoses affecting the nose. It is often treated because it might turn into squamous cell skin cancer. It may also be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Unfortunately, theres no way to tell which AKs will become dangerous, so monitoring and treating any WebThere are many types of skin cancer, each of which can look different on the skin. Skin biopsy, Scalp carcinoma, pigmented basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of sun induced skin cancer. This can help you get a closer look at the mole, as well as view areas like your back or butt. The kinetics of skin cancer: Progression of actinic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma. Vis K, Waalboer-Spuij R, et al. aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/actinic-keratosis-symptoms, journals.lww.com/jdnaonline/Fulltext/2020/11000/Skin_Cancer,_Back_to_Basics__Actinic_Keratosis.3.aspx, jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(21)00502-8/fulltext, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/about/key-statistics.html, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6939186/, journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0262151, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4112263/, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/treating/basal-cell-carcinoma.html, nhs.uk/conditions/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/treatment/, cancer.org/cancer/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/about/what-is-basal-and-squamous-cell.html, curemelanoma.org/patient-eng/melanoma-treatment/adjuvant-therapy, 5 Prescription Treatments for Removing Actinic Keratosis at Home, Everything You Need to Know About Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer, Mohs Surgery for Basal Cell Carcinoma: Before and After Treatment. An actinic keratosis (ak-TIN-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is a rough, scaly patch on the skin that develops from years of sun exposure. AK is a type of precancer, which means that if you dont treat the condition, it could turn into cancer. WebSeborrheic keratoses may be mistaken for warts, moles, skin tags, or skin cancer. The growths (lesions) look waxy or scaly and slightly raised. WebActinic keratosis is usually considered to be a pre-cancer. TEXTURE As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. While the estimated risk of progression to SCC can vary greatly, the average risk is believed to be around 8%. These lesions most commonly appear on the: Actinic keratoses develop over several years. What is adjuvant therapy for melanoma? Growth that looks like an animals horn. Cryotherapy may be a good option for benign lesions, such as actinic keratosis. If what you think is a nick or cut doesnt heal within roughly a weekor you notice any of the changes abovesee your doctor. Although in most cases, there are no other signs or symptoms, some people can experience itching, tenderness, and stinging. Epithelial precancerous lesions. In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, et al. Because of their rough texture, actinic keratoses are often easier to feel than see. In the very early stages, squamous cell skin cancer can look like actinic keratosis. Both actinic keratosis and BCC appear in areas that receive frequent sun exposure. Actinic keratosis is a precancer, meaning that it can serve as a warning sign for future skin cancer. Scattered thick, scaly, red patches on the back of the hand. It also treats thin non-melanoma skin cancer. Many scaly, raised spots on the skin that may look like a rash or acne breakout. What do actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma look like? Americans have one or more AKs. Actinic Cheilitis (Farmer's Lip) 3 /22. WebSkin cancer. Estoy en riesgo de desarrollar melanoma. Below, well cover more about actinic keratosis and BCC as well as their symptoms. Limiting time in the sun helps prevent the formation of actinic keratoses. Its estimated prevalence in the United States is about 20%. When diagnosed promptly, almost all actinic keratoses (plural) can be successfully removed. WebActinic keratoses (solar keratoses) Actinic keratoses (also called solar keratoses) are dry scaly patches of skin that have been damaged by the sun. However, it can be much higher, up to 60%, in areas of the world that receive more sunlight. Prevention is to cut sun exposure and wear sunscreen.Treatments include performing cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen), cutting the keratoses away, burning them, putting 5-fluorouracil on them, and using photodynamic therapy (injecting Espaol. These dermatologists' tips tell you how to protect your skin. WebActinic keratoses are lesions in the outer skin layer caused by too much exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. The most likely location for an this precancer is sun-exposed skin. The potential treatment options for actinic keratosis can include: One of the main treatments for BCC is surgical removal. The physician applies these creams and gels directly to affected areas of the skin to treat visible WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Similarly, color variations range from light to dark with variations throughout the patches. About 58 million people in the United States have at least one actinic keratosis. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Thicker lesions need to be carefully evaluated to be sure that skin cancer is not present. Skin may feel dry and rough to the touch, or raw, sensitive and painful, or even itchy with a pricking or burning sensation. WebLifelong skin cancer exams can be life-saving. Overview. For example, it may appear as a: Sometimes, BCC lesions can have the same color as your skin. WebTopical treatments. It can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results arent permanent. The earlier a doctor can diagnose and treat an actinic keratosis, the lower the risk of skin cancer. Your doctor will look in areas you may not, like your scalp and nails, she says. Many actinic keratoses never progress. There are several different types of skin cancer with Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Bowens Disease, Keratoacanthoma, Actinic Keratosis and Melanoma most commonly occurring.. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and least Cryotherapy for skin cancer is the use of liquid nitrogen to destroy a lesion. AKs more commonly look like age spots in people who have skin of color. 2017;76(2):349-50. Here are other telltale signs to look out for: Melanoma is a rare form of skin cancer (it only makes up one percent of all skin cancers), but its the deadliest, since it easily spreads to other parts of the body when not caught early. For photos, go to our warning signs page. A dry, scaly lip that never heals (or heals and returns). It is the result of skin damage from UV exposure. What Really Happens When You Get a Sunburn. WebCryotherapy. You can expect permanent results in all but one area. WebThe following are clinical images of squamous cell skin cancer, starting with early stages. Mark Lebwohl, MD WebActinic keratosis: Rough, scaly patches of skin that are considered precancerous and are due to sun exposure. In the very early stages, squamous cell skin cancer can look like actinic keratosis. Related searches: actinic keratosis skin keratosis solar keratosis It's often found on the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck or back of the hands. They may be red, light or dark tan, white, pink, flesh-toned or a combination of colors and are sometimes raised. This is estimated to occur in 5% to 15% of people who have surgery for BCC. The most likely location for an this precancer is sun-exposed skin. These can include the face, ears, bald scalp, neck, backs of hands and forearms, and lips. Created 2007. 2010;62(1):85-95. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist thats right for you. Dimensions vary from a tiny spot to as much as an inch in diameter. Refer to these skin cancer pictures during your next self-exam. Many people with actinic keratosis also have more than one lesion. Actinic keratosis: Diagnosis and treatment. It can be itchy, painful, or bleed if you scratch at it. WebSeborrheic keratoses may be mistaken for warts, moles, skin tags, or skin cancer. WebWhat is actinic keratosis? Actinic keratoses tend to appear as smaller patches of rough-feeling skin, for example, while seborrheic keratoses may resemble a wart or mole. Actinic keratosis is caused by cumulative skin damage from repeated exposure to ultraviolet light, including that found in sunshine. Heres how long botox tends to last. Furthermore, they may resemble other types of skin lesions, such as age spots, pimples, moles, and eczema. Raise awareness. White patches on your lips can be a sign that you have a precancerous condition on your lips. WebRed, tan, pink, skin-colored, brown or silvery. WebActinic keratosis is a precancer, or a skin abnormality that could lead to cancer that forms when cells in the top layer of skin begin to grow abnormally. Because of their rough texture, actinic keratoses are often easier to feel than see. WebWhat do actinic keratoses look like? Related AAD resources 5 facts you should know about precancerous skin growths Images Image 1: J Am Acad Dermatol. Also known as a solar keratosis, an actinic keratosis grows slowly and usually first appears in people over 40. Some doctors even believe they are one and the same, just at different points along the continuum. If left untreated, it could develop into squamous cell Webactinic keratosis skin keratosis solar keratosis 653 Keratosis Premium High Res Photos Browse 653 keratosis stock photos and images available, or search for actinic keratosis or skin keratosis to find more great stock photos and pictures. (n.d.). Actinic keratosis: Signs and symptoms. The most likely location for an this precancer is sun-exposed skin. It most likely appears on areas of skin often exposed to the sun. Actinic keratosis symptoms: These lesions often occur on the face, lips, ears, back of the hands, and arms, but can form on other areas exposed to UV light. (2021). Without treatment, it may develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. (2020). JodiJacobson / Getty Images. (2019). Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. The earlier you find the signs of skin cancer, the sooner you can seek treatment. WebActinic keratoses are lesions in the outer skin layer caused by too much exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. Pictures of skin cancer Actinic keratosis An actinic keratosis, known as a precancer, is a scaly or crusty lesion. Without treatment, AK can lead to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Treatment options for actinic keratosis, or age spots, include topical medication or in-office procedures. It tends to lie flat against the skin of the head and neck, but appears as Whats the outlook for people with actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma? All rights reserved. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. WebWhat do actinic keratoses look like? Medicines If you have several actinic keratoses, your health care provider might prescribe a medicated cream or gel to remove them, such as fluorouracil (Carac, Efudex others), imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara) or diclofenac. Davis KE. (2022). Should that change be an AK, you have a greater risk of developing skin cancer. Basal cell skin cancers can pop up anywhere, but most frequently occur in areas of the body that are often exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Some medicated creams include: In cases where a person only has a few spots or patches, a doctor may recommend removing the affected area through minor surgery. Other times, they may be red, pink, gray, or darker brown, depending on your skin tone. The spot on this mans nose may look like an age spot, but its actually an actinic keratosis. Actinic keratosis: Signs and symptoms. Both actinic keratosis and BCC are mainly caused by exposure to UV radiation. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. RM 2JC4JD2 Man, 71, patient, head, bald, face, with light damage, actinic keratosis, six days after photodynamic therapy (PDT), laser treatment, lasered, Ameluz. Key statistics for basal and squamous cell carcinoma. On average, you should look at your moles every month to ensure they are not changing as this could be a sign of a pre-cancerous or cancerous mole, says board-certified dermatologist Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founding director of Eternal Dermatology Aesthetics. It's often found on the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck or back of the hands. Thicker lesions need to be carefully evaluated to be sure that skin cancer is not present. WebActinic keratosis may be solitary but there are often multiple keratoses. Thats why its important to know if you have any of these precancerous growths on your skin. It's also common to have harmless brown spots or "liver spots." Read more about the causes, treatments, and symptoms of seborrheic keratoses . They appear gradually, usually on the face, neck, chest or back. AK is a type of precancer, which means that if you dont treat the condition, it could turn into cancer. The growths (lesions) look waxy or scaly and slightly raised. WebPicture of Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis) Actinic keratoses are rough , scaly spots that form on sun-damaged skin. early signs of actinic keratosis is important because these precancers can be treated and removed before they turn into cancer. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Unfortunately, theres no way to tell which AKs will become dangerous, so monitoring and treating any Having just one precancerous skin growth means that the sun, indoor tanning, or both have badly damaged your skin. Having just one precancerous skin growth means that the sun, indoor tanning, or both have badly damaged your skin. Treatment options for actinic keratosis, or age spots, include topical medication or in-office procedures. Topical creams, gels and solutions are prescribed for use in patients with numerous or widespread actinic keratoses. WebTopical treatments. WebThe following are clinical images of squamous cell skin cancer, starting with early stages. These growths may appear as bumps, scales, or patches of rough, crusty skin. As the above pictures show, AKs come in many colors. An actinic keratosis can develop after ultraviolet light from the sun or from indoor tanning damages cells in the skin called keratinocytes, according to the AAD. BCC is slow growing, but if its left untreated, it can progress to an advanced stage. They can do tests to determine if its benign, precancerous, or cancerous. If not treated, these bumps can develop into squamous cell skincancer. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Cancer stages describe the size of the primary tumor and how far cancer has spread. A rough-feeling patch on skin that's had lots of sun. If you have a history of unprotected UV exposure, live in a sunny location or have other risk factors, be on the lookout for any unusual changes in your skin.