Page:

How to Recognize Actinic Keratosis

Examples of typical actinic keratoses are shown here, so examine your skin regularly for lesions that look like them. But it’s not always that simple: Many actinic keratoses have quite a different appearance, so if you find any unusual or changing growth, be suspicious and see your doctor promptly.

Numerous actinic keratoses on bald scalp revealing chronic sun damage. They are elevated, rough in texture, and resemble warts.
Two typical keratoses on rim of ear. The top lesion is crusted, the lower one rough in appearance.
While most keratoses have a fine sandpapery roughness, others such as this lesion have an obviously scaly, crusty surface.
Lower lip with cracks filled with dried blood and horn-shaped scale covering large keratosis.

Photos courtesy of:
Pearon G. Lang, Jr., MD, and
MSKCC Dept. of Dermatology

Next: What Causes Actinic Keratosis

Page: