Recent studies have shown that each day there are more and more people being affected by nonmelanoma skin cancers. As a matter of fact, a study published in Archives of Dermatology claimed that between 1992 and 2006 the number of procedures performed for nonmelanoma cancers has increased almost 50%. Based on these figures, experts now believe that we are in the midst of a cancerous 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 people that took part in this study 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.

Because of these remarkable findings it has now become evident that self-exams are vital in maintaining skin healthy and safe from danger. For example, by not checking your skin on a regular basis you may be unaware of the existence of precancerous lesions, such actinic keratosis, lesions that if left untreated can lead to cancer (specifically squamous cell carcinoma).

Actinic Keratosis Treatment & Actinic Keratosis Symptoms

Actinic keratosis is most often noted in older people because it is a slow developing skin condition. When it does show up on the skin, it presents itself as 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.

Diagnosis is the first step to treatment. The doctor will usually biopsy a piece of the skin that seems to be affected. Depending on the results, the doctor may indicate cryosurgery or dermabrasion to remove the lesions or topical chemotherapy drugs to treat the lesions.

Your doctor may also prescribed drugs that can help boost your immune system so that your body rejects precancerous growths. No matter what your doctor prescribes, you will still need to reduce your exposure to the sun and use a powerful sunscreen.

Skin Care Products for Actinic Keratosis

Natural skin care products can also help you treat this type of precancerous lesion. For example, biological skin creams that contain snail serum can help 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 step may not seem important, but it will help you avoid the high cost of treating skin cancer.