What should you know about natural treatment for actinic keratosis?

Actinic keratosis is a rough, scaly area caused by cumulative ultraviolet injury. It may feel like sandpaper and can be pink, red, brown, or close to the surrounding skin. A spot that looks harmless can resemble other lesions, and some actinic keratoses can progress to [Squamous Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/squamous-cell-carcinoma/). Home remedies such as vinegar, essential oils, or scraping can inflame the skin and delay diagnosis. [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/) can also produce several different types of marks, so appearance alone is not enough.

Use broad sun protection with shade, protective clothing, and sunscreen on exposed skin. Do not pick or burn a rough spot. Book a skin examination, especially when a lesion is new, persistent, tender, thickening, or one of several rough areas. Depending on the findings, a clinician may discuss [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/), [Photodynamic Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/photodynamic-therapy/), [Imiquimod Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/imiquimod-therapy/), or [Topical 5-Fluorouracil](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-5-fluorouracil/).

Seek a prompt dermatology review for bleeding, an open sore, increasing pain, rapid growth, marked thickening, or a crust that returns after coming off. Arrange [Skin Cancer Screening](/treatments/diagnostics-and-testing/skin-cancer-screening/) when you have multiple sun-damaged areas or a history of skin lesions. Follow-up may be advised after treatment; [Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment](/treatments/survivorship-and-rehabilitation/post-treatment-surveillance/) is relevant when a clinician has diagnosed skin cancer.

Ask whether the spot needs a biopsy, which treatment fits its thickness and location, how to protect nearby skin, and how often your skin should be checked.