Recent studies have shown that nonmelanoma skin cancers are constantly increasing. In fact, a study published in Archives of Dermatology claimed that the amount of procedures performed for nonmelanoma cancers had risen almost 50% from 1992 to 2006. Based on these numbers, experts assure us that we are in the midst of an epidemic.

The types of skin cancers assessed during this study were mainly keratinocyte carcinomas, in other words, basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Most of the case studies developed cancer due to voluntary exposure to UV radiation. This comes as no real surprise if you consider the worldwide obsession society has with sunbathing.

Due to findings such as these, it becomes more and more evident that it is vital to take care of our skin. For example, if you aren't aware of even the slightest changes in your skin you won't spot precancerous lesions, like actinic keratosis. When this type of skin condition arises you should treat it as soon as possible because it can lead to cancer (specifically squamous cell carcinoma).

Actinic Keratosis Treatment & Symptoms

Actinic keratosis usually appears in older people. This is due to the fact that it is very slow to develop. When this skin condition fully manifests itself it does so by forming dry, scaly patches of skin.

Generally, these patches can be eliminated by staying out of the sun, however, they will quickly return after you have been exposed to UV radiation. This "out-of-the-sun-solution" is precisely why most people avoid going to the doctor. They simply believe that their only problem is dry skin or an intermittent rash.

The first step to treatment is proper diagnosis. This is done by biopsying a piece of damaged skin to determine whether you should undergo cryosurgery or dermabrasion to remove the lesions or use topical chemotherapy drugs to treat the lesions.

Your doctor may also want you to take prescribed drugs that can help your immune system reject precancerous growths. Whatever the final decision, you will still need to limit your exposure to the sun and use a powerful sunscreen.

Skin Care Products for Actinic Keratosis

Another type of treatment that has been used in this type of situation are natural skin care products. For example, biological skin creams that contain snail serum have proven effective in helping repair damaged skin and reduce inflammation. These types of products can be used in conjunction with dermatological treatments to cover an array of different skin care needs.

Actinic keratosis prevention is as easy as applying your daily sunscreen. This simple step will help you avoid problems and save you some money in the long run.