Recent studies have shown that nonmelanoma skin cancers are on the rise. 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 findings, experts have now declared that we are in the midst of a cancer epidemic.

The types of skin cancers being studied were surveyed mainly keratinocyte carcinomas, namely, basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Most of the people under observation 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 & Symptoms

Actinic keratosis is most often noted in older people because it is a slow developing skin condition. When this skin condition fully manifests itself it does so by forming dry, scaly patches of skin.

You can often eliminate these patches by staying out of the sun, however, once you go back out into the sun the dry patches of skin will quickly reappear on your skin. This fact is what keeps many people from consulting a doctor since they believe that they only have dry skin or an intermittent rash.

Diagnosis is the first step to treatment. The doctor will biopsy a piece of affected skin and, depending on the results he or she will then indicate whether you should undergo cryosurgery or dermabrasion to remove the lesions or simply use 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 & Actinic Keratosis

Another type of treatment that has been used in this type of situation are natural skin care products. 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.

Of course, actinic keratosis prevention is preferable to treatment. Prevention is as easy as applying sunscreen every day before you leave your house. This step may not seem important, but it will help you avoid the high cost of treating skin cancer.