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Actinic keratosis is a common skin condition that is characterized by scaly, rough patches on the skin. It is also known as solar keratosis, as it is primarily caused by long-term exposure to sunlight.
Actinic keratosis typically appears on areas of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, and arms.
It is more commonly found in fair-skinned individuals and those over the age of 40.
Actinic keratosis may start off as small, rough spots on the skin that can range in color from pink to brown or gray. As it progresses, these spots may become thicker and develop a crusty texture. In some cases, actinic keratosis may also cause itching or burning sensations.
While actinic keratosis itself is not considered to be harmful or cancerous, it can sometimes develop into a type of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma. Therefore, it is important to have any suspicious spots on the skin checked by a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment options for actinic keratosis include cryotherapy (freezing), topical medications, chemical peels, photodynamic therapy (light therapy), and surgical removal. Additionally, protecting the skin from further sun damage with sunscreen and protective clothing can help prevent future occurrences of actinic keratosis.
Age spots is caused by UV radiation exposure. You are more likely to develop this condition in the following circumstances:
Age spots are medically harmless and don’t need to be treated. However, they may be removed or lightened for cosmetic purposes. Your dermatologist might suggest one of these treatments for eliminating age spots: lightening or removing them.
Liquid nitrogen is used in cryotherapy to freeze a skin spot. Cryopen is used to treat non-cancerous or pre-cancerous skin lesions. It can take up to 10 days for the treatment to heal, and there is usually no visible scarring.
Using the Cryopen to remove sunspots is incredibly effective. Treatment can begin the same day as the initial consultation.
On the brown spot, N 2O is evenly sprayed for 5 seconds at temperatures of –89°C. If you use this method, the sun/age spot will be destroyed because it will freeze and destroy the top layer of the skin.
In just a few days after treatment, a very thin scab will form on the affected area.
The scab will make it appear as if the brown spot has darkened in colour. However, once the scab falls off, it will reveal fresh new skin. Usually, only one treatment is required.
When it comes to unwanted skin growths, Cryopen is a non-invasive, safe treatment.
However, as the skin tissue is frozen and thawed, you may feel a stinging sensation during and after the treatment.
For some, this sensation may only last for a few hours after treatment, especially if multiple lesions have been treated in the same area.
To relieve the pain, apply a mild analgesic ointment.
Try to avoid sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m, to prevent future lentigines (sunspots).
You should always wear sunscreen with UVA/UVB protection when going outside in the sun.
Also, wear sun-protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin.
Cryosonic invites you to contact us today! We can get to know you better, understand what you hope to accomplish, and determine whether or not you are a good candidate for Cryopen treatment.