It’s important that you’re always taking steps to care for your skin and protect it from any damage and harm. One common issue that can occur due to long-term exposure to UV rays is known as actinic keratosis. This condition tends to grow slowly and can turn into squamous cell carcinoma if it isn’t treated. It’s important that you’re able to spot any symptoms that may occur in your body. Dr. Clifford Lober in Kissimmee and Ocoee, FL, can explain actinic keratosis and what common signs and symptoms might look like. 

Understanding Actinic Keratosis 

When you spend a prolonged period in the sun without any protection, you’re exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. This can impact the health of your skin in the future and it’s important to understand what these risks might be. Your dermatologist in Kissimmee and Ocoee, FL, can explain actinic keratosis and what it might look like for you. 

Often, actinic keratosis can vary in its appearance. Common symptoms might include: 

• Rough or scaly patches of skin less than 1 inch in diameter 
• Flat or slightly raised bumps on the skin 
• Hard, wartlike area 
• Itching, burning, or bleeding 
• Bumps that appear on the head, neck, hands, and forearms 
• Variations in color 

These patches might appear lightly pigmented or finely scaly and you might often feel them, but not see them. Often, there may be very few symptoms except the texture of your skin. This condition is most common with those that have light skin and it’s crucial that you’re taking steps to protect your skin from UV damage. 

Contact Our Dermatologist Today 

Make sure that you understand how to spot any issues with your skin! Contact Dr. Clifford Lober in Kissimmee and Ocoee, FL, to learn more about actinic keratosis and how it might present for you. Call for more information and to schedule your appointment today at (407) 846-7166 for the office in Kissimmee, FL, and (407) 656-9700 for the office in Ocoee, FL.