Actinic keratosis is often caused by sun damage and results in scaly or crusty skin growths. They are commonly found on areas of the skin exposed to sunlight over long periods of time, such as the hands, forearms, shoulders, ears, lips, neck, and scalp. These scaly patches are pre-cancerous and can develop into skin cancer if left untreated. However, most cases usually cause no symptoms and rarely become cancerous. An actinic keratosis can appear in a variety of forms, including:

•A rough, dry or scaly patch of skin, usually less than an inch in diameter

•A hard surface resembling a wart

•A pink, red or brown colored patch of skin

•A slightly raised bump on the top layer of skin

•An itchy or burning area of skin

What is Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratoses are a common form of non-cancerous skin lesions that appear as you age. They are often brown or tan in color, similar to a mole, and form on the chest, head, back or neck. Seborrheic keratoses seldom develop into skin cancer. Seborrheic keratoses should not be mistaken for age spots or liver spots. They tend to be round or oval-shaped patches raised above the skin with a stuck-on appearance. Their texture can range from waxy to scaly.