What Is Actinic Damage?

Actinic damage, also called sun damage, represents skin changes due to excessive sun exposure. Ultraviolet light A (UVA) interferes with DNA repair through the release of reactive oxygen, resulting in oxidation of both protein and lipids, whereas ultraviolet light B (UVB) causes DNA mutations.

What is actinic damaged skin?

An actinic keratosis (also known as a solar keratosis) is the most common skin condition caused by sun damage. It is the result of skin being damaged by the sun over many years. Actinic keratoses are usually rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas such as the head and face.

Can actinic keratosis go away?

Most actinic keratoses (AKs) go away with treatment. About 90% of people with actinic keratosis don't develop skin cancer.