The lesions frequently arise on sun-exposed areas of the face, lips, ears, scalp, shoulders, neck and the back of the hands and forearms. In rare instances, they may bleed or develop a persistent sore, also known as an ulceration. Dermatologists care for people of all ages. Seek shade and protect your skin against UV exposure every day, even when its cloudy, using broad-spectrum sunscreen and sun safe clothing, hats and eyewear. Seborrheic keratosis and actinic keratosis both cause skin growths, but actinic keratosis may become cancerous. People tend to get more of them as they get older. Espaol. 2013;68(1 Suppl 1):S2-9. How can you tell if its actinic keratosis or basal cell carcinoma? Youll want to use the ABCDE method for checking your moles, per the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): There are a few different things that can help you with skin checks, per Dr. Rodney: A full length mirror. They appear gradually, usually on the face, neck, chest or back. This is called Bowens disease, a very early squamous cell skin cancer that is only in the epidermis. You can expect permanent results in all but one area. WebActinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma can look similar; in fact, an actinic keratosis can turn into a squamous cell carcinoma. If you have an actinic keratosis, commonly called an age spot, your dermatologist may prescribe medication to treat this condition at home. For example, actinic keratosis may present as a rough patch of skin thats similar to your skin tone. (2007). Many of the spots on this womans forehead, nose, and cheeks are actinic keratoses. AK is a type of precancer, which means that if you dont treat the condition, it could turn into cancer. Also known as a solar keratosis, an actinic keratosis grows slowly and usually first appears in people over 40. All rights reserved. Actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth that is caused by damage to the skin. The outlook for people with actinic keratosis and BCC can depend on many factors, such as: Regardless of which condition you have; youll need to continue to follow up regularly with your dermatologist after treatment. If you notice one actinic keratosis, it is likely that you have others. Thicker lesions need to be carefully evaluated to be sure that skin cancer is not present. Although in most cases, there are no other signs or symptoms, some people can experience itching, tenderness, and stinging. In pictures of actinic keratosis, you'll see they are typically pink, scaly, and flat. All rights reserved. Seborrheic keratoses are a common, harmless, pigmented, growths on the skin. A flat or thickened papule, or plaque White or yellow; scaly, warty, or horny surface Skin coloured, red, or pigmented Tender or asymptomatic This picture gallery contains some examples of the more common types of skin cancer, as well as some other non-cancerous types of skin growths. These growths may appear as bumps, scales, or patches of rough, crusty skin. Related to actinic keratosis, actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition that usually appears on the lower lips. Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer. The outlook for people with BCC is very good when its diagnosed early. Shes spent the last five years interviewing top medical experts, interpreting peer-reviewed studies, and reporting on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness trends for national brands like Womens Health and Mens Health. People with fair skin, blond or red hair, and blue or green eyes are most at risk of developing these rough, scaly "bumps." Actinic keratoses affecting the nose. Close adherence to the chosen treatment plan is critical to ensure the best possible outcome. Most skin cancer diagnoses are either basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Which Neutrogena Sunscreens Were Recalled? Mark Lebwohl, MD, Actinic Keratosis Warning Signs and Images. Actinic Cheilitis (Farmer's Lip) 3 /22. For photos, go to our warning signs page. Both actinic keratosis and BCC are mainly caused by exposure to UV radiation. actinic keratosis stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images. A board-certified dermatologist should examine any horn-like growth on your skin ASAP. WebActinic keratosis affecting the face images. Related searches: actinic keratosis skin keratosis solar keratosis Actinic keratosis symptoms: These lesions often occur on the face, lips, ears, back of the hands, and arms, but can form on other areas exposed to UV light. Because actinic keratosis can turn into SCC, its important to receive treatment. Epithelial precancerous lesions. In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, et al. Sekulic A, et al. In some cases, it may progress into SCC, a type of skin cancer. Regular skin checks with the doctor may be life-saving.But, of course, its important for you to be doing skin checks in between annual visits with your doctor.What exactly should you be looking for? WebWhat do actinic keratoses look like? It may also be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Thicker lesions need to be carefully evaluated to be sure that skin cancer is not present. All rights reserved. What color is an actinic keratosis? Or, it may be different in color, such as pink, red, gray, or darker brown, depending on your skin tone. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. When an AK appears in this form, it often indicates that the person has a higher risk of developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. 2000;42(1) part 2:S8-S10. What do actinic keratosis and basal cell carcinoma look like? A doctor or dermatologist is likely to be able to diagnose an actinic keratosis with a simple visual examination. Protect yourself to help prevent further sun damage. WebActinic keratoses (plural of actinic keratosis) describes lesions on the outer skin layer caused by too much exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. Actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin lesion, and more than 40 million Americans a year develop one, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association . Then, well break down how each condition is diagnosed and treated. One or more rough, scaly bumps that may look like pimples or spots of irritated skin. These can include cryotherapy or topical treatment with 5-fluorouracil or imiquimod cream. Dont rush through this! Thicker lesions need to be carefully evaluated to be sure that skin cancer is not present. WebActinic keratosis: Rough, scaly patches of skin that are considered precancerous and are due to sun exposure. They are believed They may be red, light or dark tan, white, pink, flesh-toned or a combination of colors and are sometimes raised. BCC is another type of skin cancer. WebActinic keratosis (AK), sometimes called solar keratosis or senile keratosis, is a pre-cancerous area of thick, scaly, or crusty skin. For photos, go to our warning signs page. Check yourself head to toe once a month: Keep an eye out for new, changing or unusual spots or lesions that persist, grow or bleed. It happens when youve had too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is found in sunlight and in tanning beds. Jill Biden and Skin Cancer: What to Know About Risks, Screenings, and Surgery, Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Nose: Types, Identification, and Treatment, Skin Cancer: New Moderna Vaccine Shows Promise for Melanoma Treatment, How to Recognize and Treat Actinic Keratosis on Your Face, patch of irritated skin thats dry and scaly, and may also itch or hurt, round lesion with raised edges and a depressed center, bump that appears shiny or pearly in comparison with the surrounding skin, flat, firm, and waxy area that has a scar-like appearance, sore that doesnt heal and may ooze or crust over, living in a part of the world that receives a lot of sunlight, having a previous history of actinic keratosis or BCC, having specific inherited conditions, including, whether or not you have a previous history of actinic keratosis or skin cancer, excision, which involves cutting out the lesion along with a small area of healthy skin, the location, size, and number of lesions. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second-most common skin cancer. Learn more about these, Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Read more about actinic keratosis. Best food forward: Are algae the future of sustainable nutrition? Medicines If you have several actinic keratoses, your health care provider might prescribe a medicated cream or gel to remove them, such as fluorouracil (Carac, Efudex others), imiquimod (Aldara, Zyclara) or diclofenac. Sit to check the back of the legs, calf, and underneath your feet with the mirror, Dr. Rodney says. It may look like this man has a badly chapped lower lip, but the white, dry, and cracked skin is actually a precancerous growth. WebRF 2GN41YD Lesions and scabs of actinic keratosis or sunspots on sun-damaged skin on a man's wrist. But because this risk is low, treatments are generally aimed at avoiding scars or other disfiguring marks as much as possible. For photos and information on actinic keratosis warning signs and symptoms, visit our Actinic Keratosis Warning Signs page. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. But there's a small chance they could become skin cancer, so it's important to avoid further damage to your skin. Signs and symptoms of basal and squamous cell skin cancers. Avoid unprotected UV exposure. Actinic keratosis (AK) is the most common precancer that forms on skin damaged by chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and/or indoor tanning. WebWhat do actinic keratoses look like? We avoid using tertiary references. The kinetics of skin cancer: Progression of actinic keratosis to squamous cell carcinoma. The patches are not usually serious. As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. Youll find the self-care that dermatologists recommend at, Actinic keratosis: Self-care. No two cases of actinic keratosis will look the same, but they may share the following similar features: Actinic keratoses occur when overexposure to UV light damages skin cells. Espaol. The table below can help you to better compare the symptoms of actinic keratitis and BCC. Duncan KO, Geisse JK, et al. These skin cancers can also grow as a flat patch or become larger and nodular, adds Anthony Rossi, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. I used reflective blankets and baby oil all the time, she told The Mighty. Its best to diagnose and treat AKs early, before they become cancerous. These can include the face, ears, bald scalp, neck, backs of hands and forearms, and lips. This damage usually comes from the sun or tanning beds. It most likely appears on areas of skin often exposed to the sun. Like actinic keratosis, its also possible for BCC to recur after treatment. Its important to receive early treatment for both. This article was medically reviewed by Mona Gohara, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and member of the Prevention Medical Review Board, in August 2022. Actinic keratosis can also recur after treatment or after regressing. Reinehr CPH, et al. The appearance varies. Actinic cheilitis is a variant of AK that arises on the lower lip. It's often found on the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck or back of the hands. Its important to be able to recognize the symptoms of actinic keratosis and BCC. Without treatment, it may develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Unfortunately, theres no way to tell which AKs will become dangerous, so monitoring and treating any Without treatment, AK can lead to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Red, tan, pink, skin-colored, brown or silvery. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. WebActinic Keratosis Pictures Home About Skin Cancer Prevention Treatment & Care Skin Cancer Pictures & Articles Actinic Keratosis Pictures As you open an image you can use the play button to start/pause the slide show or use the arrows to navigate between the images. Image 4: J Am Acad Dermatol. Without treatment, AK can lead to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. The affected area can also vary in color. Leonard H. Goldberg, MD COLOR Because of their rough texture, actinic keratoses are often easier to feel than see. Actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. In: Bolognia JL, et al. WebActinic keratosis is a precancer, or a skin abnormality that could lead to cancer that forms when cells in the top layer of skin begin to grow abnormally. If you notice one actinic keratosis, it is likely that you have others. They may be red, light or dark tan, white, pink, flesh-toned or a combination of colors and are sometimes raised. Related searches: actinic keratosis skin keratosis solar keratosis Indoor tanning equipment, such as tanning beds or sunlamps. Many actinic keratoses never progress. Another name for AK is solar keratosis. As the above pictures show, AKs come in many colors. In rare cases, BCC can grow deeper into nearby tissues or may spread to more distant areas of your body. An actinic keratosis can develop after ultraviolet light from the sun or from indoor tanning damages cells in the skin called keratinocytes, according to the AAD. On average, you should look at your moles every month to ensure they are not changing as this could be a sign of a pre-cancerous or cancerous mole, says board-certified dermatologist Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founding director of Eternal Dermatology Aesthetics. However, skin cancer impacts people of all skin tones (including darker skin) and backgrounds. Flat to slightly raised, scaly, crusty, rough, sometimes with a raised horn shape or bump. Melanoma symptoms: Using the ABCDE method can help you spot signature skin changes that point to melanoma. The physician applies these creams and gels directly to affected areas of the skin to treat visible Some (but not all) develop into squamous cell skin cancers, so its important to spot actinic keratosis before it advances. Cancer stages describe the size of the primary tumor and how far cancer has spread. The arrows on this womans face point to actinic keratoses. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. They can do tests to determine if its benign, precancerous, or cancerous. Basal cell carcinoma symptoms: Unfortunately, basal cell carcinoma is easy to ignore because a lot of times people think the spot is a pimple or blemish that wont heal, Dr. George says, especially on the face, neck, and ears. Another form of AK known as actinic cheilitis appears on the lower lip. They appear gradually, usually on the face, neck, chest or back. 1,2. It is often treated because it might turn into squamous cell skin cancer. WebActinic keratosis is usually considered to be a pre-cancer. Here are other telltale signs to look out for: Melanoma is a rare form of skin cancer (it only makes up one percent of all skin cancers), but its the deadliest, since it easily spreads to other parts of the body when not caught early. (2020). You may see a scaly pimple-like bump or patch of skin that is: Red or pink Skin-colored Gray The appearance varies. They are believed WebRed, tan, pink, skin-colored, brown or silvery. The following pictures show what different types of skin cancer look like, as well as how to differentiate between them. Overview. LOCATION Frequently on ultraviolet (UV) exposed areas including the face, lips, ears, scalp, shoulders, neck, back of the hands and forearms. How to Spot Different Types of Skin Cancer, Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads, Flat, firm, or pale and yellowish areas that resemble a scar, Pearly, translucent, or shiny bumps or spots, Red or pink raised patches that may also itch, Open scabs or sores that dont heal or heal and come back, Oozing or crusted areas that bleed easily, Raised bumps that may have a lower area in the center, Open sores or scabs that dont heal or heal and come back, Flat or slightly raised patch on the top layer of the skin, Pink, red, or purple bump that may be shiny, Fast-growing, painless bump thats firm to the touch, Broken skin on top may break open and bleed. Actinic keratoses tend to appear as smaller patches of rough-feeling skin, for example, while seborrheic keratoses may resemble a wart or mole. Treatment options for actinic keratosis, or age spots, include topical medication or in-office procedures. In some cases, actinic keratosis can be bumpy and pimple-like. This article details the causes, symptoms, and treatment of actinic keratosis. They are also the beginnings of skin cancer, most often appearing after age 40. This is especially true for AKs that arise on the head or neck, where skin cancers may be more aggressive. Its also possible that actinic keratosis can go away on its own. Find out what can help. Related to actinic keratosis, actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition that usually appears on the lower lips. But skin cancers can look different from these examples. 2010;62(1):85-95. An actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin growth that develops on skin thats been badly damaged by ultraviolet (UV) light from: The sun. Mosby Elsevier, Spain, 2008:1645-58. WebWhat do actinic keratoses look like? Even though just 5-10 percent of AKs turn into skin cancer, the vast majority of squamous cell carcinomas start off as AKs. Webactinic keratosis skin keratosis solar keratosis 653 Keratosis Premium High Res Photos Browse 653 keratosis stock photos and images available, or search for actinic keratosis or skin keratosis to find more great stock photos and pictures. This is called Bowens disease, a very early squamous cell skin cancer that is only in the epidermis. Last updated: January 2022. A doctor or skin care specialist can offer guidance on the best approach. A person should take proper precautions when outside, such as: It is also important to remember that this condition may occur from any UV light source, including indoor tanning beds. If not treated, these bumps can develop into squamous cell skincancer. This means that if you already have an AK, you are likely to develop moreactinic keratoses (plural) in the future. Brittany Risher Englert is a writer, editor, and digital strategist specializing in health and lifestyle content. Skin biopsy, Scalp carcinoma, pigmented basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of sun induced skin cancer. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. It is the result of skin damage from UV exposure. Learn how to check your skin here. Actinic keratosis is a disorder of epidermal keratinocytes that is induced by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure ().These growths are more common in fair-skinned people and those who are frequently in the sun. Skin cancer can sometimes develop from precancerous lesions called actinic keratoses. TEXTURE Like actinic keratosis, BCC lesions may bleed if theyre scratched or become irritated. What you need to know about this common condition. Last medically reviewed on November 28, 2022. This is called adjuvant therapy. WebWhat is actinic keratosis? Text: "Understanding Actinic Keratosis - the Basics", WebMD Medical Reference. Squamous cell carcinoma symptoms: Similar to basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinomas tend to manifest as a pink or red bump or patch that wont go away, Dr. George explains. An actinic keratosis (AK) develops when skin has been badly damaged by ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or indoor tanning. Actinic keratosis is a disorder of epidermal keratinocytes that is induced by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure ().These growths are more common in fair-skinned people and those who are frequently in the sun. An actinic keratosis is a rough and often bumpy patch or lesion that forms on the skin. AKs often appear as small dry, scaly or crusty patches of skin. The earlier you find the signs of skin cancer, the sooner you can seek treatment. Actinic keratosis is a precancerous lesion that can sometimes turn into skin cancer. An actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth on the skin. Causes of actinic keratosis. Actinic Keratosis: 12 of 14 Extensive sun damage and AK. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? Actinic keratoses affecting the nose. The patches are not usually serious. WebTopical treatments. (n.d.). Without treatment, AK can lead to a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Treatment: Skin cancer (non-melanoma). What you should know about hyperkeratosis, multiple scaly spots that look similar to acne, covering up their skin when in direct sunlight, photodynamic therapy, which uses drugs and light to kill cancerous and precancerous cells. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. The size of actinic keratoses varies from tiny to an inch or more in diameter. Image 2: Getty Images References Ceilley RI, Jorizzo JL. For photos, go to our warning signs page. Mark Lebwohl, MD Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Actinic Keratoses affecting the face. Thats why its so crucial to see skin cancer pictures to get a visual. WebActinic keratoses (plural of actinic keratosis) describes lesions on the outer skin layer caused by too much exposure to the ultraviolet rays of sunlight. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. (2022). What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers? Related AAD resources 5 facts you should know about precancerous skin growths Images Image 1: J Am Acad Dermatol. actinic keratosis stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images. Prev Actinic keratosis symptoms: These lesions often occur on the face, lips, ears, back of the hands, and arms, but can form on other areas exposed to UV light. WebPicture of Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis) Actinic keratoses are rough , scaly spots that form on sun-damaged skin. Cryotherapy is used when there are only a few lesions to treat, and the lesions have clear borders. This is estimated to happen in 1% to 10% of people. Even though its a common form of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma tends to grow very slowly, rarely spreads to other parts of the body, and is very treatable, the ACS says. But there's a small chance they could become skin cancer, so it's important to avoid further damage to your skin. It also treats thin non-melanoma skin cancer. Everyone's at risk for skin cancer. For example, it may appear as a: Sometimes, BCC lesions can have the same color as your skin. WebActinic keratosis (AK) is a skin disorder that causes rough, scaly patches of skin. An actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth on the skin. An actinic keratosis can develop after ultraviolet light from the sun or from indoor tanning damages cells in the skin called keratinocytes, according to the AAD. WebThe following are clinical images of squamous cell skin cancer, starting with early stages. 2013;69(1):e5-e6. While actinic keratosis cant turn into BCC, the two conditions can share similar symptoms, such as dry scaly skin, itching, and bleeding when scratched. (2019). WebPicture of Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis) Actinic keratoses are rough , scaly spots that form on sun-damaged skin. An actinic keratosis (AK) is a precancerous skin growth that develops on skin thats been badly damaged by ultraviolet (UV) light from: The sun. Read more about the causes, treatments, and symptoms of seborrheic keratoses . AKs often appear as small dry, scaly or crusty patches of skin. Indoor tanning equipment, such as tanning beds or sunlamps. This can help you get a closer look at the mole, as well as view areas like your back or butt. They may be red, light or dark tan, white, pink, flesh-toned or a combination of colors and are sometimes raised. SIZE Dimensions vary from a tiny spot to as much as an inch in diameter. In the very early stages, squamous cell skin cancer can look like actinic keratosis. AKs are often more easily felt than seen. Rigel DS, Cockerell CJ, et al. Images 7, 8: J Am Acad Dermatol. Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses). Here are the various skin changes to look for: Its important to note that basal cell carcinomas are very sensitive and bleed easily after shaving or minor injuries, the ACS says. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. An actinic keratosis (ak-TIN-ik ker-uh-TOE-sis) is a rough, scaly patch on the skin that develops from years of sun exposure. If detected early, actinic keratoses can be treated before they develop into skin cancer. Images Image 1: Getty Prevalence and awareness of actinic keratosis: barriers and opportunities. J Am Acad Dermatol. Some AKs look and feel inflamed. early signs of actinic keratosis is important because these precancers can be treated and removed before they turn into cancer. WebSkin cancer. SIZE Dimensions vary from a tiny spot to as much as an inch in diameter. Left untreated, some actinic keratoses (AKs) turn into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. It is often treated because it might turn into squamous cell skin cancer. The following pictures show some diverse ways that it can appear. Limiting time in the sun helps prevent the formation of actinic keratoses. Actinic keratosis is caused by cumulative skin damage from repeated exposure to ultraviolet light, including that found in sunshine. 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. It most likely appears on areas of skin often exposed to the sun. WebActinic keratoses (solar keratoses) Actinic keratoses (also called solar keratoses) are dry scaly patches of skin that have been damaged by the sun. Basal cell carcinoma forms in basal cells, which are found in the lower part of your epidermis (the top layer of your skin). Pictures of skin cancer Actinic keratosis An actinic keratosis, known as a precancer, is a scaly or crusty lesion. Skin cancer, back to basics: Actinic keratosis. This is a useful tool to help you identify moles that you might not have noticed before, Dr. Rodney says. 2017;76(2):349-50. When actinic keratosis appears on the lips, you may notice that your lips have become dry and scaly. If what you think is a nick or cut doesnt heal within roughly a weekor you notice any of the changes abovesee your doctor. Squamous cell carcinomas commonly appear on sun-exposed body parts, including the face, ears, neck, lips, and back of the hands. Image 6: J Am Acad Dermatol. Actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth that is caused by damage to the skin. There are several different types of skin cancer with Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Bowens Disease, Keratoacanthoma, Actinic Keratosis and Melanoma most commonly occurring.. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and least But because this risk is low, treatments are generally aimed at avoiding scars or other disfiguring marks as much as possible. White patches on your lips can be a sign that you have a precancerous condition on your lips. People with fair skin are more likely to develop actinic keratoses on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms, hands, back of the neck, and upper chest. If left untreated, it could develop into squamous cell It's often found on the face, lips, ears, forearms, scalp, neck or back of the hands. In other cases, they come and go in the same spot. 2013;68(1 Suppl 1):S2-9. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about two out of every 10 cases, the ACS says. It most likely appears on areas of skin often exposed to the sun. WebRF 2GN41YD Lesions and scabs of actinic keratosis or sunspots on sun-damaged skin on a man's wrist. You can often feel an AK before you see it. Home Skin Cancer Information Actinic Keratosis. She adds, they can also take a sample of the molea biopsyto look under a microscope to get a final diagnosis. Skin cancer is one of the most treatable cancers there is, but can be one of the most dangerous as people often dont detect them until its too late, Dr. Rodney says. They also use tools like a dermatoscope to give them a closer look at the mole so they can find specific features they were trained to detect. Mole changes are hard to detect with the untrained eye and no one will be better at detecting these changes than your dermatologist, Dr. Rodney says. Refer to these skin cancer pictures during your next self-exam. Another name for AK is solar keratosis. BCC also develops due to UV exposure. If you find a change on your skin that could be an actinic keratosis, protect your health by seeing a board-certified dermatologist. Related to actinic keratosis, actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition that usually appears on the lower lips. These are often yearly but will be more frequent for people with compromised immune function. Rare Skin Cancers Please visit our Rare skin cancers page for more information and pictures of rare skin cancers such as: For example, theyll ask you about when you first noticed a lesion and any symptoms that are associated with it. Seborrheic keratoses are usually brown, black or light tan. An actinic keratosis is a precancerous growth on the skin. You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist thats right for you. WebThere are many types of skin cancer, each of which can look different on the skin. This type of skin cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of a type of skin cell called melanocytes, which are responsible for producing pigment in the skin, explains Jennifer DeFazio, MD, FAAD, an assistant clinical member at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. If your dermatologist is concerned that your lesion may be cancerous, theyll take a sample of it via a skin biopsy. If left untreated, it could develop into squamous cell A rough-feeling patch on skin that's had lots of sun. Related AAD resources 5 facts you should know about precancerous skin growths Images Image 1: J Am Acad Dermatol. The spot on this mans nose may look like an age spot, but its actually an actinic keratosis.