Actinic Keratosis

2 medicines

Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly skin patch caused by years of sun exposure that can occasionally progress to skin cancer if left untreated.

Aldara

Imiquimod

5%

Aldara is a skin care medication containing Imiquimod, available as 5% sachets.

from $10.13 / sachet View

Efudex

Fluorouracil

1/5%

Efudex is a skin care medication containing Fluorouracil, available as 1/5% tubes.

from $8.67 / tube View

Key facts

  • Actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly patch of skin caused by prolonged ultraviolet exposure. Fair-skinned people in high-UV environments are especially susceptible.
  • Left untreated, a small proportion of AK lesions can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, so early attention matters.
  • Topical treatment is a common first approach: imiquimod stimulates the local immune response to clear abnormal cells, while fluorouracil directly targets and destroys rapidly dividing, damaged skin cells.
  • A lesion that changes shape, bleeds, ulcerates, or grows rapidly needs prompt clinical assessment.

What causes it

Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly patch on the skin caused by years of cumulative ultraviolet exposure. It's most common on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, and forearms, and fair-skinned people in high-UV environments are especially susceptible. Left untreated, a small proportion of AK lesions can progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer, which is why dermatologists recommend treating them rather than leaving them alone.

How it's treated

For isolated or multiple lesions, topical creams are a common first approach. Imiquimod works by stimulating the local immune response so the body clears the abnormal cells itself, while fluorouracil is a cytotoxic agent that selectively targets and destroys rapidly dividing, sun-damaged skin cells. Both fall under the broader skin care field of dermatology, and given actinic keratosis's malignant potential, treatment is sometimes discussed alongside broader oncology support resources.

Preventing new lesions

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak-sun hours reduce the chance of new lesions forming and help protect areas already treated. Since AK reflects cumulative sun damage built up over years, people who have had one lesion are likely to develop others nearby and benefit from regular skin checks.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor promptly if a lesion changes shape, bleeds, ulcerates, thickens, or grows rapidly. These signs go beyond what topical management can address and need clinical assessment to rule out skin cancer.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.