Skip to content 
Actinic keratosis is a common condition associated with long-term sun exposure, often developing gradually over the years. Many patients first notice rough, scaly patches or persistent spots that don’t fully heal, especially on areas frequently exposed to the sun. While these changes may seem minor, they can signal underlying skin damage that deserves careful attention.
At NEO Dermatology, we recognize that actinic keratosis does not present the same way in every patient. Factors such as skin type, cumulative sun exposure, immune health, and genetics all influence how lesions appear and behave over time. Under the care of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meredith Reimer, our focus is on helping patients understand their diagnosis clearly and thoughtfully, so decisions are based on knowledge, not uncertainty.
From a clinical view, actinic keratoses are considered precancerous lesions resulting from cumulative ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Chronic sun exposure alters the DNA of keratinocytes, the primary cells in the outer layer of the skin, leading to abnormal cellular changes. These lesions most often develop on sun-exposed areas, including the face, scalp, ears, hands, forearms, and lower legs.
Actinic keratosis exists along a biologic spectrum. While some lesions may remain stable, others may progress to squamous cell carcinoma. Because it is not possible to predict which lesions will change, dermatologic evaluation and ongoing monitoring are essential. A trained assessment allows us to accurately distinguish AKs from benign growths, inflammatory conditions, or early skin cancers and to guide management based on established medical evidence.
At NEO Dermatology, actinic keratosis is approached as a medical condition requiring thoughtful evaluation, not a cosmetic inconvenience. Dr. Reimer brings a board-certified, academically grounded perspective to every assessment, ensuring diagnoses and treatment recommendations are based on clinical evidence and long-term considerations for skin health.
Our assessment-first philosophy prioritizes understanding your skin in context, your history, your risk factors, and how your skin is changing over time. We avoid one-size-fits-all treatment plans and instead tailor care to your medical needs.
NEO Dermatology offers comprehensive medical, surgical, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatology services tailored to each patient’s needs. Every service is guided by accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and a thoughtful, individualized approach, ensuring care that supports both immediate concerns and long-term skin health.
