Treatment Options for Actinic Keratosis

As founder of Connolly Dermatology, Dr. Coyle Connolly offers preventative, diagnostic, and treatment services for a wide variety of skin cancers and pre-cancerous conditions. Also cited in a New York Times piece on rising skin cancer diagnosis rates, Dr. Coyle Connolly strives to educate his patients on conditions such as actinic keratosis.

Also known as solar keratoses, actinic keratoses appear on the skin as crusty growths They are most common on areas of the body that receive regular sun exposure, such as the backs of the hands and the face. If left untreated, they may develop into a common form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma. More infrequently, an actinic keratosis may develop into basal cell carcinoma.

To prevent such a development, a dermatologist will work to destroy an actinic keratosis. Cryotherapy, or freezing, currently stands as the most common treatment. A physician may also try a chemical peel or laser resurfacing, both of which remove the top layer of skin. Other options include photodynamic therapy, which treats the skin with a light-activated solution, and less commonly, curettage, which requires the surgical removal of the growth using a specialized tool. Alternatively, a physician may prescribe a cream or gel for the patient to use at home. Examples are imiquimod, fluorouracil, and ingenol mebutate.

Botox for Facial Wrinkles

Coyle Connolly, D.O. is a board-certified dermatologist who has worked in the field of clinical and cosmetic dermatology for more than twenty years. As well as providing medical and surgical services, Dr. Coyle Connolly also offers tried and true cosmetic treatments, such as Botox treatments for wrinkle reduction.

Botox is a substance that causes relaxation of facial muscles. When injected into certain areas of the face, it allows muscles to relax, thereby lessening the appearance of wrinkles. For example, Botox treatments have been shown to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, which are lines that form around the outside corners of the eyes. It can also reduce the appearance of frown lines, as well as the horizontal furrows that develop on the forehead, and which become more visible when the eyebrows are raised.

Before having Botox injections, it’s important to fully understand the procedure and its likely results. A consultation with a qualified professional may help a person understand these effects, as well as the minimal risks associated with the treatment. Individuals should be aware that the results of Botox are temporary, typically lasting between three months and one year in some cases. In order to maintain the effects, subsequent treatments are required.