Actinic keratosis is a skin alteration caused by chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. It develops slowly over time and primarily appears on the most exposed areas, including the face, scalp, ears, hands, and forearms.

In its early stages, the lesion is often barely visible but can be felt as rough or scaly patches. It may have a pink or reddish hue, gradually thicken, and, in some cases, become sensitive or prone to minor bleeding. Multiple lesions can coexist. Some keratoses may also be partially hidden under brown pigmentation, which can cause confusion and delay identification. This is why a thorough evaluation is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Without treatment, some actinic keratoses can progress over time, leading to deeper skin changes associated with abnormal cell growth. In certain cases, this progression may result in more serious skin conditions that require more complex medical interventions.