When it comes to skin conditions, most of us have heard of acne, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, cellulitis, contact dermatitis, vitiligo, and keratosis.
However, have you heard of keratosis? While keratosis is generally benign, it can vary widely in appearance and severity.
Therefore, understanding the different types, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and care. Join us and let us see what keratosis is all about.
A Quick Look At Keratosis
The word “keratosis” describes a collection of skin conditions characterized by a build-up of keratin, a robust protein that makes up the outermost layer of skin, hair, and nails. Overabundance keratin can obstruct hair follicles or pores, prompting little, hard, non-dangerous developments and knocks on the skin, normally on the arms, legs, and rear end.
It is thought to be inherited even though it is a fairly common skin condition and is not transmissible. This means that if someone in your family has keratosis, the chance of you developing it is high.
Types Of Keratosis
Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis):
Actinic it is made by delayed openness bright (UV) radiation from daylight. It shows up as harsh, flaky patches on sun-uncovered regions like your face, scalp, ears, and the backs of your hands. These patches can fluctuate in variety from pink to rosy brown and are many times felt before they are seen because of their unpleasant surface.
Seborrheic Keratosis:
Seborrheic keratosis is a common non-cancerous skin growth that appears as waxy, stuck-on lesions ranging from light tan to black in colour. They can vary in size from small to rather large, and these growths typically appear on your face, chest, shoulders, or back, and they tend to increase in number with age.
Keratosis Pilaris:
Keratosis pilaris appears as little, unpleasant knocks on your skin, frequently looking like goosebumps or chicken skin. These bumps are typically white or red and commonly appear on your upper arms, thighs, cheeks, or buttocks. it pilaris is brought about by the development of keratin inside your hair follicles and is much of the time more perceptible in colder months when your skin will in general be drier.
Actinic Cheilitis:
Actinic cheilitis affects your lips, particularly the lower lip, and is characterised by dryness, cracking, and thickened patches. It is caused by long-term sun exposure and can sometimes progress to squamous cell carcinoma (a type of cancer) if left untreated.
Common Symptoms Associated With Keratosis
The common symptoms of keratosis can vary depending on the type but generally range from rough, scaly patches or growths to waxy, stuck-on lesions, and small, rough bumps reminiscent of goosebumps. It can also present as dryness, cracking, and thickened patches on the lips.
Treatment Options
Topical Treatments: For mild cases of keratosis, topical treatments containing exfoliating agents like salicylic acid or urea can help to soften and remove the keratin buildup. These medicines are frequently available without a prescription and can work on the surface and presence of the impacted skin.
Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy includes freezing the impacted region with fluid nitrogen to eliminate unusual tissue. It is commonly used for treating actinic it and other localised forms of keratosis.
Electrosurgery: Electrosurgery employs electrical currents to eliminate abnormal tissue. It is effective for treating seborrheic keratosis and other raised lesions.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Photodynamic Therapy involves applying a photosensitizing chemical to your skin, followed by exposure to a light source. This treatment is effective for treating actinic keratosis and can selectively target abnormal cells while minimising damage to your surrounding healthy tissue.
Surgical Removal: In cases where keratosis has become problematic or suspicious for skin cancer, surgical excision may be necessary. This involves cutting out the affected area and suturing the wound closed.
Prevention And Self-Care
Sun protection is essential. Continuously use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear defensive dress, and keep away from delayed sun openness, particularly during top hours.
Moreover, moisturizing your skin can assist lessen keratin accumulation and ease the signs of dryness and roughness.
Regular skin examinations are also important. Performing regular self-examinations to monitor any changes in moles, growths, or patches can help you notice if something is different, prompting you to book an appointment with a doctor, dermatologist, or aesthetician for evaluation.
Summary And Recommendations
When keratin builds up, keratosis develops, and while most forms are benign, some types may require medical attention to prevent complications or cancer.
When it comes to your skin, never hesitate to reach out to a medical professional if you are concerned about changes or growths, as early intervention for most skin conditions and infections is crucial in helping to cure or manage them.
By being responsible when heading outdoors, using sun protection, and maintaining a healthy skincare routine, you can minimise your risk of developing keratosis and maintain skin health. If you have any concerns about skin changes, growths, or symptoms, consulting a dermatologist is advisable for proper diagnosis and management.