Day 1:
Actinic keratosis can be treated in a variety of ways. On the first day, your doctor may recommend topical treatments such as creams, gels, or lotions that contain synthetic forms of vitamin A, such as tazarotene or tretinoin. These medications are applied directly to the affected area, and they work by reducing the amount of skin cells that are produced. This helps to reduce the number of actinic keratosis lesions. Side effects may include redness, dryness, and irritation.
Day 2:
Your doctor may also recommend cryotherapy for actinic keratosis. This procedure involves freezing the lesion using liquid nitrogen or a cryoprobe. This causes the lesion to blister and then fall off. After the procedure, you may experience a temporary burning sensation or redness. Cryotherapy can be used on single or multiple lesions.
Day 3:
Another option for treating actinic keratosis is photodynamic therapy (PDT). This treatment uses a photosensitizing agent that is applied to the skin and then activated by a laser or light source. The light destroys the abnormal cells, while leaving healthy skin cells intact. Side effects may include redness, swelling, and skin discoloration.
Day 4:
Your doctor may also recommend a topical medication called imiquimod. This medication works by stimulating the body’s natural immune response to fight the actinic keratosis lesions. It is typically applied to the affected area three times a week for a period of four to sixteen weeks. Side effects may include redness, irritation, and flaking.
Day 5:
Your doctor may also recommend surgery to remove actinic keratosis lesions. This is typically done under local anesthesia, and the lesion is then removed with a scalpel or laser. Recovery time can vary, but usually the area heals within a few weeks. It is important to note that surgery may leave a scar.