Pre-Cancerous Skin Changes: What They Look Like and How They're Treated

Have you noticed a rough, pink patch on your face or arms that won’t disappear? You’re not alone. Pre-cancerous skin changes, including actinic keratoses, often go unnoticed until they become harder to treat. Learning these warning signs could save you more than just your skin.

At Chevy Chase Dermatology, Dr. Margaret Sommerville offers expert evaluation and personalized care for many skin-related conditions, including early-stage skin cancer. A George Washington University Medical School graduate, Dr. Sommerville completed dermatology residencies at top institutions, including the University of Michigan and the University of Missouri. She has over 15 years of private clinical experience and has been named among "America's Top Dermatologists." 

What Do Pre-Cancerous Skin Changes Look Like?

Many people confuse these early signs with dry skin or a lingering rash. But there are key visual clues, including:

• Scaly or crusty patches: These areas may feel rough and sandpaper-like.
• Pink, red, or brown coloring: Discoloration varies but often appears sun-damaged.
• Itching or tenderness: Lesions may hurt when touched or feel irritated in sunlight.
• Persistence: These patches don’t heal over time like a normal scrape or blemish.

Most lesions appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, arms, and scalp. If it keeps returning or getting thicker, it’s time for a skin exam.

How Are Pre-Cancerous Lesions Treated?

Treatment depends on lesion location, size, and depth. At Chevy Chase Dermatology, Dr. Sommerville selects treatment based on your skin type and goals, such as:

• Cryotherapy: Freezes off damaged skin with liquid nitrogen.
• Topical medications: Prescription creams treat multiple lesions at once.
• Laser therapy: Targets damaged cells with precision and minimal downtime.
• Photodynamic treatment: Uses light and a topical solution to eliminate abnormal cells.
• Curettage: Carefully scrapes away the lesion under local anesthesia.

These procedures are performed in-office and are typically quick with a manageable recovery.

Why Early Detection Matters for Skin Health

Spotting pre-cancerous changes early can prevent more serious problems later. Actinic keratoses can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. When caught early:

• Treatment is simpler: Lesions are smaller and less invasive to remove.
• Healing is faster: Earlier-stage issues respond well to less aggressive methods.
• Skin cancer risk is lower: Prevention is easier than managing advanced disease.

A yearly skin check with an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Sommerville can help detect issues you might not notice yourself.

Be Proactive with Your Skin Health

Could that rough patch be something more? Call 301-656-7546 to schedule your consultation and keep your skin healthy every season.

Category: Skin Cancer

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