Actinic Keratosis In Naperville, IL

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What is Actinic Keratosis?

Actinic Keratosis is a common precancerous skin condition primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. These lesions appear as small, red, or pink-colored spots with a rough sandpaper-like texture. Actinic keratoses tend to be more easily felt than seen, as they can be accompanied by a rough or gritty sensation when running a finger over the affected skin. They are considered precancerous because there is a risk that a small percentage of these lesions may progress to squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. It is important to detect and treat them early to prevent any progression.

How is Actinic Keratosis Treated?

Actinic Keratosis is commonly treated with various methods to eliminate or manage the lesions and reduce the risk of progression to skin cancer. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the number of lesions, their location, and the patient's overall health. Your provider will begin with dermoscopy, which is a non-invasive technique to evaluate the skin lesions to determine the treatment plan for you. Some treatment options include:

In-office Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves using liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the abnormal cells in AK lesions.

Topical Prescription Medications: Topical medications like imiquimod, fluorouracil (5-FU), or diclofenac are applied directly to the affected skin. These medications work to destroy or induce the immune system to eliminate abnormal cells with the AK lesions.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): PDT involves the application of a photosensitizing agent, such as aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or methyl aminolevulinate (MAL), to expose the AK lesions. After a specified incubation period, the treated areas are exposed to a specific wavelength of light. This light activates the photosensitizer, leading to the destruction of targeted cells.

The best dermatology team I've ever had! Stephanie and everyone were so friendly and creative in getting my skincare back on track. I have no more acne and my Rosacea is getting better by the day. I genuinely couldn't ask for a better skincare team to have my back, literally!

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I have been a patient of Dr. Sharon Fang's for 25+ years. I can't say enough about her care. She is EXTREMELY thorough and takes her time. After recently discovering basal cell on my face, they sent me to Dr. Bhatia within two days..........for MOHS procedure. A few days later, I saw Dr. Daw, the plastic surgeon, to begin the repair. The doctors, nurses, front office staff, billing, etc..............are remarkable.

M.B. Google

My mother had basal cell carcinoma on her chin. We decided to come to Oak as they were highly recommended. Our first visit with Dr Bhatia was extremely pleasant. Dr Bhatia and his staff are very kind, knowledgeable and thoughtful. We decided to proceed with the MOHS procedure. Due to the amount that was removed the plastic surgeon had to repair and suture my mom’s pchin. He did such a great job!! It has healed well and you would never be able to tell that she had anything done to her chin. WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND OAK DERMATOLOGY IN NAPERVILLE!!!!

L.S. Google

She was so sweet, answered ALL my questions and I didn't feel rushed.

S.A. Google

Dr. Fang is the best dermatologist in Joliet she explains you things well and take care of you. She's not rushed she takes her time.

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Are there at-home methods for actinic keratosis?

At-home medicines cannot double for expert supervision for your actinic keratosis; however, they can stop it from worsening or reoccurring after medical care. Some guidelines to help stop and remedy actinic keratosis at home involve limiting sun exposure, applying sunscreen, and eating foods strong in nutrients. Individuals may also thrive from wholesome products like apple cider vinegar, virgin coconut oil, tree oil, and green tea.

Can actinic keratosis come back following treatment?

A good number of occurrences of actinic keratosis can be improved and cured after undergoing professional supervision, such as cryotherapy or laser surgery. It may take as long as three months after therapy for your actinic keratosis to fade. In less common circumstances, the lesion can persist and needs to be tested and medicated once more.

What is the importance between actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis?

Although actinic keratosis produces rough or scaled skin nodules because of sun damage, seborrheic keratoses are similar to a mole. They are typically tan or brown in color and spherical or elongated in shape. They could routinely emerge as if they have been fused to the skin similar to a sticky label, while actinic keratosis might have a sensation of a rough area of skin. To confirm the kind of keratosis you are experiencing, you should speak to a Prestige Cosmetic Dermatology specialist who can give you a definitive conclusion.

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.