Keratin does not develop on skin, and once it does, it could be keratosis. Human fingernails, toenails and hair are mostly constituted of keratin. But if it grows on skin, it could cause thickness, lumping and wart like growths. The kinds of keratosis vary on what caused it, they are actinic keratosis if it caused by overexposure to the sun, pilaric keratosis which is a follicular abnormality, hydrocarbon keratosis and seborrheic keratosis. Actinic keratosis is the most inherent form of keratosis and we’ll discuss about its surgical treatment. It is one of the most common kinds of keratosis, and is also known as solar keratosis. Since the face, the arms and neck are the parts of the skin which is gets prolonged sun exposure, keratosis commonly affects these areas. The disease most likely occurs on people with fair skin. Since it could lead to cancer, it must be treated at once.

Actinic keratosis employs extended exposure to the sun as its main factors.  It resembles a mole in color and in size. But moles don’t just grow bigger and thicker like keratosis does. The main distinction is its thickening and growth. Upon diagnosis, a dermatologist may present various treatments. Depending on how mild or severe is the case, the options are many. For mild cases, there are creams and gels which can be applied on the affected area for about 2-3 months. The gel or cream would diminish and soften the affected area and it will be removed easily. There are also surgical options, like cryosurgery.

Cryosurgery is the use of extreme temperatures-specifically coolness to destroy abnormal growths of cells or tissues. The surgeon would apply liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide foam to the area to be treated.   It hardens the affected area more to make it easier to remove. Cryosurgery is less expensive, less painful and scars minimally. However there are also risks such as damage to nerve tissues and damage to nearby areas of the treated parts.

Laser surgery could also be chosen. This is done without the use of a scalpel. Nonetheless it could be more expensive and more effort is employed. The good thing about laser surgery is that it heals quickly and the pain is less.

In case of short budget, traditional surgery could also be chosen. Keratosis is not found deep within the skin and can be remedied by some applied gel and traditional surgery. The pain you would feel would amount to the safety of your health.

Tags: age spots, anti ageing, skin care

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